I heartily disagree that it was "as good as it could be." After really processing it and distancing myself from the whole ordeal, I find it to be rather lackluster for a modern work of cinema. In fact, with the sheer amount of talent involved, it should have been a hundred times better. All of the actors are immensely talented people, yet I can really only think of two stand-out performances in this whole film: Michelle Pfeiffer and Gulliver McGrath. Eva Green was genuinely good, though I disliked much of the characterization. Bella Heathcote did well with what she had, but it wasn't enough. In the end, I felt that both Depp and HBC could have done far better. In comparing their takes to those of Frid, Hall, Cross, and Steele, I can safely say that I don't think anyone's favorite versions of Barnabas and Julia will be those portrayed in this film. (These two actors may have many talents, but, after seeing the film, I don't think they were right for these roles.) Jonny Lee Miller was severely shortchanged and should have been given a lot more screentime. This could have and should have been an "epic supernatural love story," not a mixed bag with tons of loose ends. It had its moments, and for that I am grateful. But it really isn't that good in my opinion. Maybe it just wasn't the kind of film I like... I don't know. But I won't beleaguer my stance. Just give me NoDS, and I will be thankful that Depp Shadows came along. Don't give it to me, and I will continue to think about all of the ways it could have been improved.