Good, But Depp Can't Sing

Rating: 7/10 (8 January 2012)

"Sweeney Todd" is actually a very well-made movie. Sondheim refers to it as the only one of his musicals that actually succeeds as a movie, rather than an opened-up version of the stage musical.
Director Tim Burton uses shades of red and black almost exclusively in the film, from costumes to scenery to lighting. It adds to the film's overall effectiveness. He doesn't shy away from all the blood, which doesn't bother me.
Johnny Depp delivers yet another fantastic performance. He is lacking one important element, though -- a singing voice. He sounds like he would be more comfortable singing a pop or rock musical (such as "Rent" or "Rock of Ages"). However, the score for "Sweeney" is an extremely demanding one, almost operatic (indeed, the stage version has been performed at numerous opera houses). His acting saves the character - he is absolutely riveting.
Helena Bonham Carter's voice suits her character well, but it could be stronger. She plays the character well, but she could have been a bit more scatterbrained.
Of the other cast members, only Jane Weisner (Johanna), Jamie Campell Bower (Anthony), and Sascha Cohen (Pirrelli) have voices that suit the work.
Musically, Burton has cut several songs, including the opening of the stage version, "The Ballad of Sweeney Todd". Sondheim purists should definitely see this, but their expectations should be significantly lowered.