Dark Shadows

Dark Shadows was an amazingly good little film. I never quite realized that this was a remake from a mid 60's TV show because I was born just after the series ended. It had a pleasing, comical dark storyline that made me forget about the real world, even if it was only for a short while. The acting in this movie was excellent, especially Johnny Depp who was brilliant as Barnabas Collins. He was witty, charming, silly, a bit on the serious side at times, but he won me over by his performance. As anyone familiar with Depp and the roles he plays, he has the uncanny ability of transforming himself into any character he takes on. He owns this film. I can't say it any better than that. Also, Eva Green played Angelique Bouchard quite impressively and couldn't have made a better vindictive witch. I must commend Helena Bonham Carter as well for playing the role of Dr. Julia Hoffman. Hats off to Michelle Pfeiffer for her performance as Elizabeth. Congrats to all the rest of the cast in this feature whose wonderful chemistry was so dead on. I loved how that 70's flavor was captured by the costumes everyone wore, the family TV set, and the classy red car. Superb soundtrack was also very fitting for this picture. The other thing which intrigued me was the Collin's old mansion. It had that genuine spooky look and feel to it inside and out. Lush scenes, great cinematography, wind swept seascapes and towering cliffs complete the spectacle. Cool to see Alice Cooper make a brief cameo in this flick too. So if you're someone who enjoys delightful, zany characters, interesting witty dialogue, and unexpected surprises then this is your cup of tea. Not everyone will like this movie, but go and decide for yourself. It is very entertaining and full of laughs. Great accomplishment on Tim Burton's behalf of injecting humor and style in this new recreation of Dark Shadows. Don't miss it.