Nothing Short of a Masterpiece

Rating: 10/10 (23 December 2007)

As a director, Tim Burton has made a collection of eccentric and altogether different films that have been greeted with mostly positive praise. He has legions of devoted fans that think him the most brilliant man in the world. His skills have always been considered something special, and altogether different.
Sweeney Todd is the crowning achievement of his career. If this film does not sweep the Academy Awards, they are some seriously bad judges.
Everything here is done to perfection, creating a world unlike anything you've ever seen. Visually, the film is stunning. Everything from set design to costumes and make-up is done wonderfully. Then there's Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter in two of their best roles, giving Oscar-worthy performances. They are also surrounded by a very talented supporting cast. All film-making aspects are put together perfectly.
But in the end, it's the amazing story that makes it something truly incredible. As someone who has never seen the stage show, Sweeney Todd literally took the wind out of me by the end; this tale of the evil of humans and the blinding power of revenge and greed is something you'll never forget. Apart from the leads of Sweeney (Depp) and Mrs. Lovett (Carter), there are two smaller characters who work their way in as contrasts to the anti-heroes. They show the desperate hope that people hang onto amidst the evil of men, a hope that can scarcely survive. This is a story of a man blinded by rage and driven to madness. It is at the same time both terrifying, disgusting, and heartbreaking. Not to mention darkly funny.
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street is probably one of the finest creations ever put on film. The only thing that could hold it back from Oscars is that it is based on previously written material. If it were an original motion picture, there would be no competition. Do yourself a favor and see this masterpiece on the big screen, but don't take the kids: It is, at heart, a horror film. 9/10 stars!
Jay Addison