Steampunk sleuth...

Rating: 10/10 (16 September 2014)

One of my favorite versions of SLEEPY HOLLOW was the black and white comic book adaptation by artist Bernie Wrightson; though much shorter than the story upon which it was based, Wrightson's patented style made the comic worth reading. Likewise, Tim Burton's Hammer-driven take is worth a look: it's dark, but light; scary, yet funny. The idea of Crane (Depp) as a steampunk forensics "expert" was sheer genius; that he's squeamish at the sight of blood was a nice touch, too, and his fainting spells make for some fun moments. Christina Ricci and Christopher Walken and every other member of the cast are perfectly cast. The music is memorable; the cinematography to die for. If not Burton's very best (I still tend to lean toward the remake of FRANKENWEENIE, though that may be comparing apples to oranges), it's certainly ONE of them.