Review: Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)

Before “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” was released I had never heard of the Stephen Sondheim musical of the same name, and I have never been a Tim Burton fanboy, so I feel that I’ve approached this film from a neutral place. The only things I knew about Sweeney Todd going into the theatre were that it stars Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham-Carter, and that it is a bloody revenge story. Also, I have heard a lot of commotion about how well the film has been received by critics and movie-goers both, so I was expecting a good film - and sadly, I have to say I was disappointed.

Actually, disappointed might not be the best word to describe how I feel after seeing Sweeney Todd - disturbed and disgusted are better descriptions. I tried my best to see the humor and playfulness in the gory action - but I don’t feel that Depp and Burton quite did their job this time, and instead of coming across as humorous this movie was more dark, gloomy, and foul. The large pools and fountains of blood didn’t bother me as much as I thought they might, but other aspects of the film did turn my stomach. I know what you might be thinking, since when is Burton not dark and gloomy? I did expect a certain level of Burton-esque styling, but I felt this was more horror/gore than I’ve ever seen in a Burton film, and I didn’t like it. Of course, the normal Burton style is present as well, and he did an impressive job in providing the audience with a convincing setting.

Looking beyond the gore, I have to say that I was a bit disappointed in the seemingly shallow way the plot played out - the focus on revenge may have been too great, taking away from other parts of the plot that could have been developed a bit better. Don’t get me wrong, I love revenge stories more than most people, but I couldn’t help but feel that the plot was too singularly focused. Also, I think I am a bit shocked that the “hero” of this movie was so deranged, but I am in the process of trying to accept just how dark some movies can be.

On the upside, I thought the lyrics in all of the songs were amusing, that the songs were good, and the singing was excellent. The music flowed well with the rest of the film, and added most of the humor. I think all of the actors with singing parts did a great job.

The acting in this film was also very good, and I was happily surprised to see Alan Rickman once again playing an antagonist. Depp’s character didn’t have a whole lot of depth, but he played the “demon” quite well. Helena Bonham-Carter was very convincing, and even all of the more minor roles were acted very well.

Sadly, I think the gore and revenge overwhelmed this film, and it definitely left me with a lost appetite, and a disturbed feeling overall. Maybe I missed something, or maybe I am just not the right person to see the wonder of Sweeney Todd, but I have to say that at this point, I would rather not watch it ever again.

Review: Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007): 2.5/5

I know most of you out there will totally disagree with my verdict (87% of you, according to Rotten Tomatoes) - so here’s your chance - convince me that I am wrong, and that I should see it again, I’ll be waiting.

If you enjoyed this post, Please consider subscribing to my full-post feed, or subscribing to receive my posts by email. Also, please check out my contribute and get reviewed pages. Have anything to say? Please comment!