Hmmm...the best approach might be to film the 1795 storyline. Of all the storylines, it has (arguably) the tightest structure, with a clear and focused beginning, middle, and end. Because it ends with Barnabas being chained in his coffin, it would set the stage for a sequel set in present-day Collinwood.
Even more important, 1795 is the foundation of the Barnabas mythos -- his origin story -- and a retelling of that storyline would give newcomers insight into the character.
The more I think about this, the more I think you've hit on a brilliant idea, Claude. Barnabas' backstory has everything going for it: the supernatural, betrayal, revenge, and all enveloped in a sweeping and tragic love story. And there is precedent for focusing on 1795 because that's the story the '88 stage version of DS pared down and dramatized.
Now, if only we could get those involved with developing the film to consider going that route.
As for Tim Burton's potential involvement, I'm not so sure. I loved
Sleepy Hallow, but so many of his other films are too quirky to be compatible with the DS universe. If Burton could reign much of his quirkiness in, perhaps.
And as for doubts about Depp, as I said earlier, I was quite skeptical about his ability to portray Barnabas until I saw him in
From Hell. But after watching that film I posted:
I know people have been saying Depp could be an interesting Barnabas, but I never really saw it. However, now, after watching his performance in From Hell, I think I'd be thrilled if the unlikely event was ever to happen and he was cast in the role. You weren't exaggerating in the slightest, Rainey, when you said "THAT'S a tortured soul."
Depp definitely has the range to portray Barn in all his tortured glory.
Of course, I'd also posted back then that we should
Forget Tarantino and Burton - if there ever would be a new DS theatrical film, someone sign the Hugheses to direct, Peter Deming to be the director of photography, and Martin Childs as the production designer. In particular the look of From Hell is just incredible, especially the use of light and shadow. Any potential DS film would be lucky to look half as good. Their combined efforts make for what I only hope another DS film could be.
But I'm presuming nothing like that is likely to happen. Though maybe I shouldn't presume too easily. After all, back in 2005 I thought it was an "unlikely event" that Depp would ever get the opportunity to play Barnabas.