so much fun!

Rating: Null/10 (29 November 1999)

A enthralling fantasy full of whimsy and mysticism. From the very opening titles to the end credits this film is a pure joy that so closely resembles the Disney version it was that you begin the forget that this film is live action. The sets are amazing. I read somewhere that Tim Burton had most of the back drops and sets built from the ground up. He doesn't like using SFX or matte painting. If there's an Oscar in the bag for this stint it's going to be for production design. Every actor in this film must have been prepared to behave in the mannerism of the animated Disney characters. They do this, and it's a wonder to behold.
Johnny Depp is perfect in his role as the nervous constable. He was so fun to watch. Christina Ricci (the most beautiful thing I've ever seen), shines as Katarina. She's the most beautiful woman since Grace Kelly (who coincidentally died the same year Christina was born). Her face glows like an angel and her voice drifts with a soothing but subtle 17th century accent. Everyone in in this film was cast perfectly.
The cinematography in this film was mind blowing. I kept thinking to myself "it's so animated". From interviews, I learned that this is what Burton wanted. It worked perfect. The decapitations (more than any movie I've ever seen) are done tastefully and sometimes humorously. The heads get lopped right off and spin in mid air. So much fun!
Other than the mild "slowness" in the middle, this film is so much fun. You've got to see this!