Sweeney Todd is theatrical madness. Its intertwined plot focuses on a few characters driven by clear motivations. While contrived and simplistic, it's undoubtedly sensational. Its antihero follows a downfall arc, culminating in tragedy. This all serves the theme of the corruption in seeking vengeance. In turn, the script is reinforced by intense acting. However, the story has shortcomings. Because it's conveyed through song, all the exposition and drama are told rather than shown. This is a given with musicals, yet not all are this extensively direct. Meanwhile, the romance side plot is woefully underdeveloped. Nevertheless, Sweeney Todd is a concise, Dickensian tale.
Technically, Sweeney Todd is unified in its dark tone. The cinematography uses meaningful angles and lighting, but teeters on drabness. Its editing contains a short runtime, musical rhythm, and slim resolution. Besides some emphasis and violence, the sound is fairly standard. Intricately weaving together motifs that build songs off each other, its music is the star of the show. The production design offers the Victorian era with stylized gothic influences, yet its strict color palette becomes slightly monotonous. Its cast is highly talented but the star power ends with Depp. The effects create solid gore. Although marginally flawed, Sweeney Todd is a distinct experience.
Writing: 8/10
Direction: 9/10
Cinematography: 8/10
Acting: 9/10
Editing: 7/10
Sound: 7/10
Score/Soundtrack: 10/10
Production Design: 9/10
Casting: 8/10
Effects: 8/10
Overall Score: 8.3/10
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