the_only_warrior I would give this a 10 if it was a fully produced film. Why wasn't this made instead of the Tim Burton one?For those of you who don't know - Sweeney Todd is a man falsely imprisoned (transported to Australia) by a judge who covets Sweeney's wife. When Sweeney finally escapes and returns after many years, he discovers his wife is dead and that the judge is indirectly responsible. Enraged, he plots to cold-bloodedly kill the judge - who, like everyone else, fails to recognize who he is after his long stint in prison. There is a LOT more to the plot, but technically any more would be a spoiler.Wonderful cast of great actors and great singers! George Hearn is a revelation, not only can he bring great subtlety to the music, but he embodied the complicated role so well, made it so believable and understandable, you can't imagine another actor doing it better. Patti Lapone was funny and sexy as Mrs Lovett and brought out a really sweet side to Mrs Lovett as well as the overt nastiness. Timothy Nolan was really creepy as the judge and what a voice! Stanford Olsen was a perfect fit for the role and stole the show with his amazing high notes and Neil Patrick Harris had wonderful energy as Tobias. If I was being picky, Davis Gaines (as a 47 year old playing young Anthony Hope) looked too old on screen, but I guess this is a concert version. Even the small parts are fabulous. Chorus and Orchestra spot on. One reviewer mentioned the camera work being too choppy - but personally, apart from the lack of sets, props, and the fact you can hear the audience when they react, it feels (and sounds) like a film. I think this is a big plus!I didn't know anything about Sweeney Todd and actually caught part of this for the first time at a house party. Ten minutes of watching that made me search for the DVD to buy. It's riveting!Throw away the Tim Burton and trade gloss for substance.

debaroos I love Sweeney Todd, but I did not love this concert version. I did not care for Patti LuPone and I really abhorred the way it was taped. During the Judge's Song (Johanna), the camera kept panning back and forth from Johanna to the Judge. Towards the middle of the song, there were brief and idiotic shots of Johanna's chest, hands, and face that were timed with crescendi in the music. Cornball! It took away a lot from Timothy Nolen's wonderful performance because the viewer becomes too aware of the camera. The director is saying: "Look at how the camera moves! Aren't I ever so clever?" Aside from that, I did enjoy the extras on the DVD: a short documentary on the genesis and making of the concert versions of Sweeney Todd, plus interviews with Sondheim, George Hearn, Timothy Nolen, Victoria Clarke, Lisa Vroman, Neil Patrick Harris, Patti LuPone (blech) and unfortunately, the execrable Lonny Price (good stage direction; bad TV direction). If you love Sweeney Todd, you'll want to see this no matter how badly the camera is directed.

BestOfAllPossible This is a wonderful representation of this brilliant musical. The performances are all at peek energy and perfect characterization. Patti LuPone's voice and new spin on the classic character of Mrs. Lovett is the highlight of this concert, for me. She is moving, hysterical, coy, and her voice is always beautiful. George Hearn gives a wonderful reprise performance of the role he played so many years ago. All other performances are wonderfully acted and beautifully sung by both Broadway and opera singers. Lonny Price's new vision and direction for this concert is just about perfection. He uses minimal set, props and costumes, but still creates the atmosphere of the show. Also, the opera ensemble and symphonic orchestra only adds to the magnitude and beauty of the piece. This is a must-have for any Sweeney fan!

Garrett Fitzgerald (^Sarek^) This DVD was an absolute delight to watch. George Hearn had almost 20 years to refine this performance, and he used them well. (It's amazing that he wasn't originally cast for this concert.) Patti Lupone may outdo Angela Lansbury, IMHO. The supporting cast all do wonderful jobs, as well. The actor playing Judge Turpin was especially noteworthy.