I was fortunate enough to be able to see a free advance screening of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street last night. It was a sudden, last minute thing, but I’m oh-so-happy it happened! Here are my spoiler-free thoughts:
So… Last night Adam and I were just sitting around doing nothing in particular when our roommate asked if we wanted to go see a movie for free. “What movie?” Adam asked. “Sweeney Todd.” 
! Of course we didn’t refuse! We were ready in minutes and heading to the heart of the city to see an advanced screening of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, the movie I’ve been impatiently anticipating since I first heard rumors about it a year ago. It happened so suddenly I almost couldn’t believe it! We arrived at the cinema (which is a brand new Regal one situated right next to the historic Tennessee Theatre), and craziness ensued. It was crowded with people waiting to experience Sweeney Todd on the big screen, and it seemed like almost everyone there was already a die-hard fan! There were people in Sweeney Todd shirts, people in costume, and people simply wearing lots and lots of black clothes and eyeliner. I almost felt out of place in my plain sweater and jeans, but seeing everyone’s enthusiasm just made me even more excited.
The theater was packed. There were four of us, and the only way we could get seats together was to sit very close to the front, which resulted in us having to crane our necks the whole time, but it was worth it. After what seemed like ages, the movie finally started. I was hooked from the opening credits.
I can say nothing negative about the movie, even if I try really hard. The score was amazing, and I was very impressed by Johnny Depp’s singing as well as Helena Bonham Carter’s, since neither of them knew they had it in them until they did this movie. The chemistry between those two was incredible as well. All of the acting, singing, and music was superb. If Sweeney Todd doesn’t win some of the four Golden Globes it’s nominated for, I’m gonna be angry.
And let me tell you, there was so much blood and gore. Tim Burton really didn’t hold back. To quote Adam: “I could probably buy a new house, a new car, and then some with the money they spent on fake blood.” 
The imagery is beautifully dark and twisted. It doesn’t let you forget that you’re watching a Tim Burton movie, which is just the way it should be.
I can’t say anything about the movie in comparison to the Broadway musical because last night was my introduction to the story. I can say, however, that it’s an enjoyable and well-made movie for everyone, whether you’re a fan of previous Sweeney Todd incarnations or not.
I cannot stop singing the songs and Adam and I can’t stop talking about it. It was so good! I can’t wait to see it again on Christmas! I feel very lucky to have been able to see it before most anyone else, and I wasn’t even expecting to! I’m forever indebted to our roommate and his girlfriend for inviting us.
YAY!
