Barnabas Collins is a O.V. (Original Vampire). Before the glittering shenanigans of Edward Cullen, Barnabas stalked the streets of Collinsport, Maine. Many of the new generation kids may not know of ‘Dark Shadows’ considering it premiered in 1966 and ended its run it 1971. Originally, the series was planned to run for only 13 weeks, but due to the huge fan following, the series ran for over 4 years. This dark goth soap opera featured episodes with werewolves, ghosts, zombies (hell yes I said zombies!) and other supernatural creatures of the dark. Considering the series aired during the daytime, it had a great run and also produced 2 movies, countless books, and other various projects.
Considering, how old this series is, ‘Dark Shadows’ made a huge splash at the recent San Diego Comic Con, when Tim Burton has announced during his panel for his newest film, ‘Alice in Wonderland’ that he will be collaborating with long time friend (imaginary friend as Burton describes it), Johnny Depp on a ‘Dark Shadows’ feature project. This will be Tim Burton and Johnny Depp’s 8th collaboration (seemed like there were more than that).
Tim Burton and Johnny Depp has been reported to be huge fans of the ‘Dark Shadows’ series. Depp has also been quoted that it has been a lifelong dream of his to play Barnabas Collins (which was originally played by Johnathan Frid). No word whether there is a script in the works or not or whether the other key characters from the series such as Victoria Winters. My guess is that Helena Bonham Carter will somehow or someway be cast into the movie (damn you Tim!). Only news that has been confirmed is ‘Dark Shadows’ will be Tim Burton’s next project after ‘Alice in Wonderland’ and ‘9′ (which he is the producer). Even though that may be the case, it may be a while before we see ‘Dark Shadows’ due to Johnny Depp’s commitments to the 4th installment of “Pirates of the Caribbean”.
It is quite interesting that the dynamic duo of Tim Burton and Johnny Depp has not gotten old. Even after 7 previous collaborations, you would think it would get tiresome and old to the movie goers. We have seen it with the ‘Spielberg x Cruise’ combo. However, everyone can agree that Burton and Depp is not an ordinary couple either. Sorry Helena (Bohnam Carter)…, but Johnny is number 1 in Tim’s heart.
Barnabas Collins (Jonathan Frid pictured) This is one creepy ass dood. Bitchin’ cane though.
While we wait for ‘Dark Shadows’ check out the teaser trailer for ‘Alice in Wonderland’ that premiered at SDCC 2009!
