While on the set filming Sweeney Todd in the UK, Helena Bonham Carter, who plays the Demon Barber's cohort in crime, Mrs. Lovett, spoke with the Independent's Nicola Christie about the role she'd waited a lifetime to play.

It wasn't a role that was simply handed to her, either, despite her relationship with the film's director, Tim Burton. It was only when the show's composer, Stephen Sondheim, gave her the OK that Bonham Carter's place was secured, and the couple could "burst into tears" of joy.

While there was speculation among some at the start about whether Bonham Carter or the film's lead, Johnny Depp, could match singing chops with their already well-tested acting chops. That's since been put to rest, as the stars are more than happy to attest on one other's behalf.

"Johnny's singing voice is very sexy," Bonham Carter tells Christie. "He really sings from the gut, and it's a very emotional role. His singing is very naked and very touching."

As for Depp, he calls his co-star "very brave" for taking on such a daunting role. "Without question," he says, "that's the toughest part in the movie and she beautifully made it her own."

To read the article, visit arts.independent.co.uk.

Leading up to next week's UK launch of the film, the Daily Mail's also got coverage of the stars' musical preparation for the film, concluding that for all of Depp's early self-doubt about pulling of the challenging vocals, "In the end, Depp's fears proved completely unfounded."

To read that article, visit dailymail.co.uk.