two perfectly mixed moods, but many plot holes

Rating: 6/10 (21 May 2012)

I understand the bad reviews, I really do. Even though I haven't seen the original series, I am a Burton fan and I do believe the man will always stay true to himself: he certainly knows how to create a mood, you've got to give it to him. And he certainly knows how to bring the best out of Johnny Depp.
Unlike other reviewers, I totally accept the mix of early 1970's and 18th century 'Gothica'. Both periods intertwine perfectly. Clichés as they may be, the makeup, costumes and recurring 70's themes (rock music, weed, war, peace) seemed very appropriate and didn't clash at all with that gorgeous old mansion.
The soundtrack is just perfect; beside Elfman's usual touch, A Theme From Summer Palace and The Carpenters' Top of the World for example made me smile. There is a lot of warmth and nostalgia in this movie, as opposed to the cold, Gothic scenes from Barnabas' past.
The woman who plays Victoria/Josette, Isabella Heathcote, namely a TV actress...well, she is definitely the star of every scene she's in. Her unusual beauty and facial expressions tell me she's going to be a big star in no time. Maybe it's because I don't like Eva Green, but I think she was miscast as Angelique..and I think Helena Bonham Carter and Michelle Pfeiffer should have switched roles, that would have given their respective characters more..spice and credibility.
There were too many details given out in a haste, in order to summarize a series in a single feature film, but instead of making the latter fast-paced this simply leaves us puzzled, and asking for more. Plot holes may be allowed in series because there is always room to fill them later and add interesting twists, but in a movie it is not advisable.
The sex scene was as ridiculous as Johnny Depp's musical act in Alice in Wonderland. But both suicide/cliff scenes were gorgeous to look at and serve as a reminder that Burton hasn't lost his touch.
See it for the fun of it, it's real eye candy, and an entertaining story, but don't expect a masterpiece of depth and drama.