A Fleet Street barber recounts the story of Sweeney Todd (Tod Slaughter), a notorious barber who in the last century murdered many customers for their money.
Slaughter (1885–1956) was so great at playing maniacs, he was the right choice for this role. While many, many Sweeney Todds have come and gone, and some (such as Johnny Depp) are notable, Slaughter did it first and really set the stage for all future incarnations.
And Slaughter was best when working under director George King (1899–1966), as he was in this role. King, a former medical student, also had the distinction of introducing the world to Laurence Olivier! Unfortunately, most copies of this film are in the public domain and grainy. But maybe someone will come along and make a nice release... far too many of the 1930s and 1940s films have fallen into disarray. I am glad they are widely available, but being in such poor shape does them no favors.
Slaughter (1885–1956) was so great at playing maniacs, he was the right choice for this role. While many, many Sweeney Todds have come and gone, and some (such as Johnny Depp) are notable, Slaughter did it first and really set the stage for all future incarnations.
And Slaughter was best when working under director George King (1899–1966), as he was in this role. King, a former medical student, also had the distinction of introducing the world to Laurence Olivier! Unfortunately, most copies of this film are in the public domain and grainy. But maybe someone will come along and make a nice release... far too many of the 1930s and 1940s films have fallen into disarray. I am glad they are widely available, but being in such poor shape does them no favors.