Left with mixed emotions

Rating: 5/10 (6 January 2008)

I saw this movie last night, and thought that the lead vocal performances were mildly sufficient. Despite this, I tremendously enjoyed the closer point of view that the film affords it's audience, especially during the more graphic scenes. Depp and Bonham-Carter acted their parts beautifully. As an actor, I performed in a professional stage production of this musical, which leads me to my chief complaint. Maybe I'm in the minority on this, but I really missed the ensemble singing. It was such a let down when we never actually got to hear "The Ballad of Sweeney Todd" in the opening moments. Granted, with fewer voices Sondheim's intricate music and tongue-twisting lyrics are much easier for those unfamiliar with the show to understand. Just some thoughts.