Tim Burton, that man with a style untouched by any other Hollywood director, adds to his already impressive repertoire with this enjoyable film version of Washington Irving’s short story, and, like all of Burton’s work, it’s a perfect example of flawed genius.
Burton regular Johnny Depp again takes the lead role, here playing Ichabod Crane, who investigates a series of decapitation murders, alledgedly committed by the phantom headless horseman.
As usual for a Burton feature, there’s a hoard of British talent on show, including Christopher Lee, Michael Gough, Miranda Richardson, Michael Gambon, Ian McDiarmid (The Emperor from the ‘Star Wars’ films), Claire Skinner, Richard Griffiths and the future Mrs. Burton, Helen Bonham Carter. Christopher Walken and Christina Ricci also star as the Horseman and Depp’s love interest.
Burton once again employs his wild imagination and his artistic style to produce an atmospheric, nightmarish experience. Creepy and beautiful, this is one of Burton’s best.