Film Review #15

Great casting choices for Dark Shadows

         A few days ago I sat back and decided to view Tim Burton’s Dark Shadows. I have to admit I was impressed. I was expecting a disaster similar to Burton’s Charlie & the Chocolate Factory. Thankfully this was not the case. I watched a horror comedy that was smart, hilarious, and above all interesting. The flick stars Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer, Helena Bonham Carter, Eva Green, and Jackie Earle Hayley.

            In my opinion, the plot of the film is appealing. Barnabas Collins (Depp) is a 200 year old vampire that has been asleep since the 18^th Century. When he is released from his chains it is 1972 and much has changed in the fishing port of Collinsport, Maine. Not thinking twice about it Barnabas returns to his old home. He quickly realizes that his descendents are quite dysfunctional. Barnabas and his relatives have been cursed for his actions as a young man. During the 1760s Barnabas seduced and later rejected the family maid of the manor- Angelique Bouchard (Green). Little did he realize, Angelique was a witch and his refusal to love her would cost him everything he cared for. After seeing the Collins name in shambles the recently awakened Barnabas decides that he will rejuvenate their reputation and family business. There is only one little problem however. Angelique has been living in Collinsport for centuries and she has made it her life’s cause to see that the Collins suffer for her pain. This sets the stage for a memorable reunion and a volatile ending.

Depp is a delight

           Depp is too believable in his role as Barnabas Collins- even with that horribly distracting haircut. His manner of speech and line delivery is perfect. Don’t believe me? Perhaps this quote will make you reconsider: “Fifteen, and no husband? You must put those child-bearing hips to good use, lest your womb shrivel up and die.” Eva Green as Angelique is quite convincing too. You really believe that her character is heartbroken and that this drives her to the point of obsession. Michelle Pfeiffer is fun to watch in the film. While her role is not particularly enticing she certainly has presence. Helena Bonham Carter is scene stealing as the alcoholic Dr. Julia Hoffman. She and Depp have some very memorable scenes together. Overall, my expectations were more than fulfilled. I thought this film was going to be painful to endure but it was the complete opposite.

          Like any other Tim Burton film the visuals you see are amazing. His sense of style is so well conveyed in this film. It was fun to see Burton’s gothic yet quirky style on screen. I had no complaints with his chosen aesthetics. The music provided by Danny Elfman is perfect and well placed. The score is creepy, menacing, and extraordinarily sad at times. A whole range of emotions can be felt. I hope the YouTube link that I’m providing below proves this.

           I could list a few different reasons for my readers to go see Dark Shadows. If I can only give one decisive factor to see this film I’d say go for a fun ride. While this film is not going to change your life it is entertaining. If you’re a fan of comedy definitely watch it. The balance scale tips in favor of comedy rather than horror. I hope you enjoy the film as much as I did. That’s all folks!

7 out of 10