Scary, beautiful, and fun!

Rating: Null/10 (22 November 1999)

Of course, every die-hard Tim Burton fan saw this movie opening night, but even one who shies away from horror flicks, like myself, will enjoy this cinematically beautiful film. Critics have complained that the story deviates too much from the original Washington Irving novel (a timeless complaint), but the film has inspired me to read the book and I'll let you know which plot is more spell-binding.
Johnny Depp stars in this thriller ("romance"? don't go expecting to see a love story) about the efforts of a cowardly police inspector, Ichabod Crane, to solve the mystery of the Headless Horseman (great casting: Christopher Walken) in late 18th century New York. Depp fits right in with the mannerisms, language, costumes and setting of the period. The actor is obviously comfortable with his character, giving an amusing side to an otherwise gruesome movie. Christina Ricci is also well-cast as the mysterious yet innocent Katrina Van Tassel, daughter of the town's de facto head. The supporting cast is also effective, with the exception of Miranda Richardson as Lady Van Tassel, Katrina's stepmother. The actress' demeanor and poor delivery do not correspond with the period of the film.
The story is well-visualized by Burton, whose cinematography is fitting. The combination of setting, foggy lighting and the absence of all color except red are put together expertly. His teamwork with Danny Elfman, who wrote the music, is once again superb. The dialogue, it seems, was especially written for Crane: Depp's character has the best lines, and the writing is in other places somewhat awkward.
Sleepy Hollow is a great movie, and a must-see for all Burton, Depp, or Elfman fans. Those with weak stomachs should probably avoid this film, as it is (very realistically) gory.