Dark Shadows

Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter, Michelle Pfeiffer, Eva Green, Chloe Grace Moretz all wrapped up in a dazzling Tim Burton film; what’s there not to like? Tim Burton has had ample practice at making films and with his wife Helena Bonham Carter and Johnny Depp at his side, he’s undoubtedly created his method for sensational films.

This 2012 hauntingly beautiful, fantasy comedy was orchestrated right down to all the ‘Collin’s Mansion’s’ secret pathways. The camera angles and techniques were remarkable, special effects marvelous but the make-up on Johnny Depp at times, a little too much. Depp’s seductive and serious acting is always wonderful to watch, and Helena Bonham Carter and Pfeiffer also portrayed great comic timing. The young blonde Moretz that has been in scores of film lately, showering her pristine talent also did a commendable job of being that ‘non-interested-angst-to-the-world type character. French Eva Green was a delightful villain and I’m sure others agree with me when I say she gave a lovely and unforgettable smashing performance during the film’s final scene; an also introducing Aussie Bella Heathcote coming on the scene in 2010, and rising steadily alongside these hard-working film stars.

Despite it being rated PG-13, I felt that there were many scenes I would not find appropriate for children of this age. Sensuality, seduction and several sexual innuendoes reigned high throughout the film. From the way Johnny Depp slowly raced his long fingers over things, to steamy red dresses, and plenty of pent-up anguish and long-lizardly tongues of lust. All well for an adult audience, but a tad too much for children to even beginning to worry about.

Writers Seth Grahame-Smith and John August set a beautiful tone for a beloved story, of un-requited love, lost love, witches, vampires and werewolves. Burton who loves the dark side took this story in his hands and turned out a fantastic feature. You haven’t begun to see what a dysfunctional family looks like till you’ve met the Collin’s family. It was extraordinary to see how they could mix such dark and serious content with incredible comedy and groovy 70’s music! J