I'm sure it's just me, but I have to throw in my "two drachmae" on the endless speculations about Johnny Depp as Barnabas... I personally do not think Depp would be at all good casting for the role. Depp is a wonderful performer but I have yet to see work from him that would have a certain edge that I think this role (as originally written, at least) calls for.
I would like to see Alec Newman's performance in the role. From the bit of work I saw in Dune, I do think he might have the gravitas (plus a soupcon of sexuality) to make it work.
For me, the leisurely story-telling of a serial is part of the magic of Dark Shadows. The characterizations and the way in which the emotions of the people are revealed in the most improbable situations are often central to what I regarded as the best moments of the series. So, to me, a feature film is a less than ideal way to experience DS.
but then I'm really not all that thrilled about a remake. At this point, I have an interest in it purely because new product is probably the only thing that will make Warners shell out the money (pocket change to them, folks--let's get real, if they toss away 5 million on a pilot?) for the restoration of Night of Dark Shadows.
G.