A great movie if you are able to leave your brain at the door

Rating: 8/10 (11 October 2005)

I should start out by saying that I'm a fan of Tim Burton, Johnny Depp, and Christina Ricci which will have an impact on my review.
The first time I saw this in theaters, I was disappointed because I expected more from the talent involved; it was a movie of atmosphere over substance. Furthermore, it wasn't really a horror movie despite its gore and suspense. But, I decided to give it another chance when I wanted to just watch something entertaining and found to have come to appreciate it more and more with each viewing. On long days when I just want to stop thinking for awhile, I will put it into the DVD player and enjoy the ride from beginning to end.
Nevertheless, this movie will appeal only to a select audience of people who can judge the film for what it is: a mindless suspense film with a brooding atmosphere and a good amount of charm. So on an October night, when you have come home from a long day of work, this just might be the perfect movie to sit down and escape reality.