I should provide something with a little more depth later, but for now, here are my capsule reviews of the three versions of Sweeney Todd I've seen.

• Broadway Production (1982): This DVD comes the closest to capturing the original Sondheim production in all its Grand Guignol splendor. It's dark and twisted, but retains a healthy leavening of humor, and the requisite gore is — in the finest theatrical tradition — implied rather than shown. The CD of the original 1979 cast recording remains my favorite.
• The current stage revival (as heard on the 2005 CD) reimagines the tale as told in a madhouse, and acted by its inmates. It's brilliant and intimate, bringing the horror into your lap if you are lucky enough to see it in a small venue. The orchestrations have been completely reworked in a more minimalist style, and are strangely compelling.
• The Hollywood blockbuster version directed by Tim Burton is, in my opinion, a masterpiece of film musical. While the quality of the vocal performances vary wildly, the acting performances are so strong as to compensate for most musical deficiencies. When combined with the amazing art direction and highly stylized visual design for which Burton is known, you ahve a great, if disturbing film.

Like I said, I'll try and write up some better reviews later. Seeing so many different versions has given me some food for thought.