Absolutely Terrific

Rating: 10/10 (21 December 2007)

I saw and loved the original show. But what's done on a stage has to be rethought for the screen, and Burton and company have done so marvelously. On stage Sweeney and Mrs. Lovet have to stand front and center and sing with a force that will let the last row in the upper balcony hear every word. They don't have to do that here. Sweeney and Mrs. Lovett are in her shop and upper apartment conspiring with one another most delicately. The result is a singing horror movie. Easily puts all other recent musical films in the shade. It's the real Sondheim deal. And that means, among other things, it's a full press homage to the great Bernard Herrman. Be sure to see "Hangover Square" -- Sondheim' primary inspr iration -- after this one.