Script Sweeneytodd
Script Sweeneytodd
Screenplay by
John Logan
SUDDENLY--
GENTLEMAN
Attend the tale of Sweeney Todd.
His skin was pale and his eye was odd.
He shaved the faces of gentlemen
Who never thereafter were heard of again.
He trod a path that few have trod,
Did Sweeney Todd,
The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 2.
1 CONTINUED: 1
BANKER
He kept a shop in London town,
Of fancy clients and good renown,
And what if none of their souls were saved?
They went to their maker impeccably shaved...
BANKER
By Sweeney,
By Sweeney Todd,
The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.
GHOSTS
Swing your razor wide, Sweeney!
Hold it to the skies!
Freely flows the blood of those
Who moralize!
GENERAL
His needs were few, his room was bare:
PRIEST
A lavabo and a fancy chair...
TOURIST
A mug of suds and a leather strop,
An apron, a towel, a pail and a mop...
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 3.
1 CONTINUED: (2) 1
STUDENT
For neatness he deserves a nod,
Does Sweeney Todd...
GENTLEMAN
The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.
The ghosts are a bit more insinuating now as they move around
this mysterious world...
GHOSTS
(variously)
Inconspicuous Sweeney was,
Quick and quiet and clean ‘e was.
Back of his smile, under his word,
Sweeney heard music that nobody heard.
Sweeney pondered and Sweeney planned,
Like a perfect machine 'e planned,
Sweeney was smooth, Sweeney was subtle,
Sweeney would blink and rats would scuttle...
GHOSTS
(variously)
Sweeney was smooth, Sweeney was subtle,
Sweeney would blink and rats would scuttle.
Inconspicuous Sweeney was,
Quick and quiet and clean 'e was,
Like a perfect machine 'e was,
Was Sweeney!
Sweeney!
Sweeney!
Sweeeeeneeeeey!
On this explosive note we revolve -- away from the ghostly
Furies--
To discover--
GHOSTS
Attend the tale of Sweeney Todd.
He served a dark and a vengeful god.
What happened then--
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 4.
1 CONTINUED: (3) 1
GENTLEMAN
Well, who’s to say?
BANKER
And he wouldn't want us to give it away,
GHOSTS
(variously)
Not Sweeney,
Not Sweeney Todd,
The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.
Behind him stand the GENTLEMAN and the BANKER. They are
looking past Anthony, looking at something. They move away as
Anthony peers through the fog, straining to see...
London.
Anthony is awestruck.
ANTHONY
I have sailed the world, beheld its wonders
From the Dardanelles
To the mountains of Peru,
But there's no place like London--!
Then--
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 5.
2 CONTINUED: 2
TODD
No, there's no place like London.
ANTHONY
Mr. Todd...?
TODD
You are young.
Life has been kind to you.
You will learn.
ANTHONY
Lord ... takes your breath away,
doesn't it?
TODD
There's a hole in the world
Like a great black pit
And the vermin of the world
Inhabit it
And its morals aren't worth
What a pig could spit
And it goes by the name Of London.
At the top of the hole
Sit the privileged few
Making mock of the vermin
In the lower zoo,
Turning beauty into filth and greed.
I too
Have sailed the world, and seen its wonders
For the cruelty of men
Is as wondrous as Peru,
But there's no place like London!
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 6.
3 CONTINUED: 3
TODD
I beg your indulgence, Anthony ... My
mind is far from easy. In these once
familiar streets I feel shadows
everywhere...
ANTHONY
Shadows...?
TODD
Ghosts.
TODD
There was a barber and his wife,
And she was beautiful,
A foolish barber and his wife,
She was his reason and his life,
And she was beautiful,
And she was virtuous.
And he was...
(a breath)
Naive.
TODD (V.O.)
There was another man who saw
That she was beautiful,
A pious vulture of the law,
Who with a gesture of his claw
Removed the barber from his plate.
Then there was nothing but to wait
And she would fall,
So soft,
So young,
So lost,
And oh, so beautiful!
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 7.
4 CONTINUED: 4
Music continues.
ANTHONY
And the lady, sir ... did she succumb?
TODD
Oh, that was many years ago...
I doubt if anyone would know.
A quiet beat.
TODD
I owe you my life, Anthony. If you
hadn't spotted me, I would be lost on
the ocean still ... Thank you.
ANTHONY
Will I see you again?
TODD
You might find me, if you like, around
Fleet Street.
ANTHONY
Until then, my friend.
TODD
There's a hole in the world
Like a great black pit
And it's filled with people
Who are filled with shit
And the vermin of the world
Inhabit it...
Fleet Street.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 9.
9 CONTINUED: 9
The moment Todd enters -- and the bell at the door sounds --
her head snaps up and her eyes are on him like a bird of
prey:
MRS. LOVETT
A customer!
MRS. LOVETT
Wait! What's yer rush?
What's yer hurry?
(She sticks the knife into
the counter)
You gave me such a--
(Wipes her hands on her
apron) )
Fright. I thought you was a ghost.
Half a minute, can'tcher?
Sit!
Sit ye down!
(An order)
Sit!
(He obeys)
All I meant is that I
Haven't seen a customer for weeks.
Did you come here for a pie, sir?
(Todd nods. She flicks a
bit of dust off a pie
with a rag)
Do forgive me if me head's a little vague--
Ugh!
(She plucks something off
the pie, examines it)
What is that?
But you'd think we had the plague--
(She drops it on the floor
and stamps on it)
From the way that people--
(She flicks something off
the pie with her finger)
Keep avoiding--
(Spotting it moving)
No, you don't!
(She smacks it with her
hand)
Heaven knows I try, sir!
(Lifts her hand, looks at
it)
Tsk!
(She wipes it on the edge
of the counter)
But there's no one comes in even to inhale--
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 10.
9 CONTINUED: (2) 9
Tsk!
(She blows the last dust
off the pie as she brings
it to him)
Right you are, sir. Would you like a drop of ale?
(Todd nods)
Mind you, I can't hardly blame them--
(Pouring a tankard of ale)
These are probably the worst pies in London.
I know why nobody cares to take them--
I should know,
I make them.
But good? No,
The worst pies in London--
Even that's polite.
The worst pies in London--
If you doubt it, take a bite.
(He does. It's horrible)
Is that just disgusting?
You have to concede it.
It's nothing but crusting--
Here, drink this, you'll need it--
(She gives him the ale)
The worst pies in London.
MRS. LOVETT
And no wonder with the price of meat
What it is--
(Grunt)
When you get it.
(Grunt)
Never
(Grunt)
Thought I'd live to see the day
Men'd think it was a treat
Finding poor
(Grunt)
Animals
(Grunt)
Wot are dying in the street.
Mrs. Mooney has a pie shop,
Does a business, but I noticed something weird--
Lately all her neighbors' cats have disappeared.
(Shrugs)
Have to hand it to her--
Wot I calls
Enterprise,
Popping pussies into pies.
Wouldn't do in my shop--
Just the thought of it's enough to make you sick.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 11.
9 CONTINUED: (3) 9
MRS. LOVETT
Trust me, dearie, it's going to take
more than ale to wash that taste out.
Come with me and we'll get you a nice
tumbler of gin.
She leads him through the curtains at the back of the pie
shop and into...
She goes to a sideboard and pours him a huge glass of gin as:
MRS. LOVETT
Isn't this homey now? Me cheery
wallpaper was a real bargain too, it
being only partly singed when the
chapel burnt down ....
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 12.
10 CONTINUED: 10
She hands him the gin. He gulps it down, washing the taste of
her pie out of his mouth.
MRS. LOVETT
There's a good boy, now you sit down
and warm your bones, you look chilled
through.
TODD
Isn't that a room over the shop? If
times are so hard, why don't you rent
it out?
MRS. LOVETT
Up there? Oh, no one will go near
it...
MRS. LOVETT
People think it's haunted.
TODD
Haunted?
MRS. LOVETT
And who's to say they're wrong? ...
You see, years ago, something happened
up there. Something not very nice...
The flickering flame from the fire begins to cast a more
intense red glow on her face...
MRS. LOVETT
There was a barber and his wife,
And he was beautiful,
A proper artist with a knife,
But they transported him for life.
(Sighs)
And he was beautiful...
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 13.
10 CONTINUED: (2) 10
MRS. LOVETT
Barker, his name was -- Benjamin
Barker.
TODD
Transported? What was his crime?
MRS. LOVETT
(with an edge)
Foolishness.
She turns again to the fire, the red glow bathing her face as
she remembers...
Lucy moves to the window, looks out. She sees Judge Turpin
and the Beadle waiting below. The Judge holds yet another
bouquet.
The Beadle finds Lucy again and graciously gives her his arm,
leading her through the party. She is thankful for the
salvation he provides. He brings her to Judge Turpin.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 15.
13 CONTINUED: 13
TODD (V.O.)
NOOOOOOOO...!
Todd's wild howl shatters the memory and tears us back to--
TODD
..... NOOOOOO!
TODD
Would no one have mercy on her?
MRS. LOVETT
So it is you -- Benjamin Barker.
TODD
Where's Lucy?! Where’s my wife?!
MRS. LOVETT
She poisoned herself. Arsenic from the
apothecary on the corner. I tried to
stop her but she wouldn't listen to
me. And he's got your daughter.
TODD
He? Judge Turpin?
MRS. LOVETT
Adopted her like his own.
TODD
Fifteen years of sweating in a living
hell on a false charge. Fifteen years
dreaming that I might come home to
find a loving wife and child...
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 16.
14 CONTINUED: 14
MRS. LOVETT
Well, I can't say the years have been
particularly kind to you, Mr. Barker,
but you still--
TODD
No, not Barker. That man is dead. It's
Todd now. Sweeney Todd ... And he will
have his revenge.
TODD
Judge Turpin and the Beadle will pay
for what they did.
TODD
First I must have my shop back.
They emerge from the pie shop. She begins to scale the
exterior staircase to the darkened second floor room. He
hesitates.
MRS. LOVETT
Come along...
MRS. LOVETT
Not to worry, a touch of oil will put
that right.
(she turns back to Todd)
... Nothing to be afraid of, love,
come in.
She moves into the room. But Todd hesitates at the door,
looking into the room.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 17.
16 CONTINUED: 16
TODD
I don't believe it...
MRS. LOVETT
When they came for the girl, I hid
'em. I thought, who knows? Maybe the
silly blighter'll be back again.
Cracked in the head, wasn't I?
MRS. LOVETT
Those handles is chased silver, ain't
they?
TODD
Silver, yes...
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 18.
16 CONTINUED: (2) 16
Home,
And we're together,
And we'll do wonders,
Won't we?
TODD
(Picking out a larger
razor)
You there, my friend,
Come, let me hold you.
MRS. LOVETT
I'm your friend too, Mr. Todd.
If you only knew, Mr. Todd--
Ooh, Mr. Todd,
You’re warm
In my hand.
You've come home.
Always had a fondness for you,
I did.
TODD
--My lucky friends.
Till now your shine
Was merely silver.
Friends,
You shall drip rubies,
You'll soon drip precious
Rubies...
MRS. LOVETT
Never you fear, Mr. Todd,
You can move in here, Mr. Todd.
Splendors you never have dreamed
All your days
Will be yours.
I'm your friend.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 19.
16 CONTINUED: (3) 16
TODD
Leave me now...
She goes. Todd finally picks up his biggest razor and slowly
opens it, looks at it.
TODD
At last my arm is complete again.
Then--
GHOSTS
Lift your razor high, Sweeney!
Hear it singing, "Yes!"
Sink it in the rosy skin
Of righteousness!
GHOSTS
(variously)
His voice was soft, his manner mild.
He seldom laughed but he often smiled,
He'd seen how civilized men behave.
He never forgot and he never forgave,
Not Sweeney,
Not Sweeney Todd,
The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.
JOHANNA
Green finch and linnet bird,
Nightingale, blackbird,
How is it you sing?
How can you jubilate,
Sitting in cages,
Never taking wing?
Outside the sky waits,
Beckoning, beckoning,
Just beyond the bars.
How can you remain,
Staring at the rain,
Maddened by the stars?
How is it you sing
Anything?
How is it you sing?
JOHANNA
My cage has many rooms,
Damask and dark.
Nothing there sings,
Not even my lark.
Larks never will, you know,
When they’re captive.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 21.
17 CONTINUED: 17
Then she turns away quickly, alarmed, when someone enters her
room. She looks terrified.
BEGGAR WOMAN
Alms! ... Alms! ...
For a miserable woman
On a miserable chilly morning...
(Anthony drops a coin into
her hand)
Thank yer, sir, thank yer.
ANTHONY
Ma’am, could tell me whose house this
is?
BEGGAR WOMAN
That’s the great Judge Turpin’s house
that is.
ANTHONY
And the young lady who resides there?
BEGGAR WOMAN
That’s Johanna, his pretty little
ward. Keeps her snug, he does, all
locked up ... So don’t you go
trespassing there or it’s a good
whipping for you -- or any other young
man with mischief on his mind...
BEGGAR WOMAN
'Ow would you like a little muff, dear,
A little jig jig
A little bounce around the bush?
Wouldn't you like to push me parsley?
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 22.
17 CONTINUED: (2) 17
BEGGAR WOMAN
Alms! ... Alms!...
For a desperate woman...
ANTHONY
I feel you,
Johanna,
I feel you.
I was half convinced I'd waken,
Satisfied enough to dream you.
Happily I was mistaken, Johanna!
I'll steal you,
Johanna,
I'll steal you...
JUDGE
Come in, lad. Come in...
Judge Turpin leads Anthony into the dark library, filled with
books. Anthony is looking around for Johanna. He is wary,
this is all very strange.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 23.
18 CONTINUED: 18
JUDGE
... you were looking for Hyde Park,
you say?
ANTHONY
Yes, it's terribly large on the map
but I keep getting lost...
JUDGE
Sit down, lad, sit down.
ANTHONY
It's embarrassing for a sailor to lose
his bearings, but, well, there you
are.
Then...
JUDGE
A sailor, eh?
ANTHONY
Yes, sir. The "Bountiful" out of
Plymouth.
JUDGE
(handing him a snifter of
brandy)
A sailor must know the ways of the
world, yes? ... Must be practiced in
the ways of the world ... Would you
say you are practiced, boy?
ANTHONY
Sir?
JUDGE
Oh, yes ... such practices ... the
geishas of Japan ... the concubines of
Siam .. the catamites of Greece ...
the harlots of India ... I have them
all here ... Drawings of them ....
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 24.
18 CONTINUED: (2) 18
JUDGE (cont'd)
(he turns again to
Anthony)
... All the vile things you've done
with your whores.
JUDGE
Would you like to see?
ANTHONY
(standing)
I think there's been some mistake--
JUDGE
Oh, I think not. You gandered at my
ward, Johanna ... You gandered at her
... Yes, sir, you gandered.
ANTHONY
(glancing nervously back
at the Beadle)
I meant no harm--
JUDGE
Your meaning is immaterial. Mark me:
if I see your face again on this
street, you'll rue the day your bitch
of a mother gave you birth.
JUDGE
My Johanna isn't one of your bloody
cock-chafers! My Johanna is not to be
gandered at!
BEADLE
Hyde Park is that way, young sir ... A
right and then a left, then straight
on, you see? ...
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 25.
19 CONTINUED: 19
BEADLE (cont'd)
(points)
... Over there.
The Beadle then SLAMS Anthony across the back of the neck --
Anthony falls hard--
The Beadle then uses one dainty foot to roll Anthony over--
Anthony gazes up at him, panting for breath, in agony--
BEADLE
You heard Judge Turpin, little man.
BEADLE
Next time it'll be your pretty brains
all over the pavement.
With that, the Beadle returns to the mansion and slams the
door.
A long beat as Anthony gets his breath, wiping blood from his
face.
The music swells as Anthony emerges from the dark alley into
the bright sunlight. He makes his way along the sidewalk:
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 26.
20 CONTINUED: 20
ANTHONY
I feel you, Johanna,
And one day I'll steal you.
Till I'm with you then,
I'm with you there,
Sweetly buried in your yellow hair...
TODD
He's here every Thursday?
MRS. LOVETT
Like clockwork. Eyetalian. All the
rage he is.
TODD
Not for long.
MRS. LOVETT
Oh Mr. T., do you really think you can
do it?
TODD
By tomorrow they'll all be flocking to
me like sheep to be shorn--
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 27.
22 CONTINUED: 22
MRS. LOVETT
(seeing the Beadle,
pulling his arm)
Come along now, dear, he might
recognize you--
TODD
I will do what I have vowed to do ...
(he continues to glare at
the Beadle, his voice
low)
... Come closer, my friend, closer...
TOBY
Ladies and gentlemen!
May I have your attention, perlease?
Do you wake every morning in shame and despair
To discover your pillow is covered with hair
Wot ought not to be there?
Well, ladies and gentlemen,
From now on you can waken at ease.
You need never again have a worry or care,
I will show you a miracle marvelous rare,
Gentlemen, you are about to see something wot rose
from the dead!
(A woman gasps, he smiles
and wiggles a finger no)
On the top of my head.
TOBY
'Twas Pirelli's
Miracle Elixir,
That's wot did the trick, sir,
True, sir, true.
Was it quick, sir?
Did it in a tick, sir?
Just like an elixir
Ought to do!
(To a Bald Man)
How about a bottle, mister?
Only costs a penny, guaranteed.
(Pours a drop on the bald
man’s head)
Does Pirelli's
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 28.
22 CONTINUED: (2) 22
TODD
(loudly, to Mrs. Lovett)
Pardon me, ma'am, what's that awful stench?
MRS. LOVETT
Are we standing near an open trench?
TODD
(to a woman in the crowd)
Must be standing near an open trench!
TOBY
Buy Pirelli's Miracle Elixir:
Anything wot's slick, sir,
Soon sprouts curls.
Try Pirelli's!
When they see how thick, sir,
You can have your pick, sir,
Of the girls!
TODD
(sniffing bottle of
Elixir)
What is this?
MRS. LOVETT
(sniffing another
customer's bottle)
What is this?
TODD
Smells like piss.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 29.
22 CONTINUED: (3) 22
MRS. LOVETT
Smells like -- phew!
TODD
This is piss. Piss with ink.
TOBY
Let Pirelli's
Activate your roots, sir--
TODD
Keep it off your boots, sir--
Eats right through.
TOBY
Yes, get Pirelli’s!
Use a bottle of it!
Ladies seem to love it--
MRS. LOVETT
Flies do too!
PIRELLI
I am Adolfo Pirelli,
Da king of da barbers, da barber of kings,
E buon giorno, good day,
I blow you a kiss!
(he does so)
And I, da so-famous Pirelli,
I wish-a to know-a
Who has-a da nerve-a to say
My elixir is piss!
Who says this?!
TODD
I do.
(Todd moves forward
boldly.)
I am Mr. Sweeney Todd of Fleet Street.
I have opened a bottle of Pirelli's
elixir, and I say to you that it is
nothing but an arrant fraud, concocted
from piss and ink.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 30.
22 CONTINUED: (4) 22
TODD
And furthermore -- "signor" -- I have
serviced no kings, yet I wager I can
shave a cheek with ten times more
dexterity that any street mountebank.
He snaps open his razor case and holds it up for the crowd to
see, turning to display the wondrous razors:
TODD
You see these razors?
MRS. LOVETT
(to the crowd)
The finest in England.
TODD
(glaring at Pirelli)
I lay them against five pounds you are
no match for me. You hear me, sir?
Either accept my challenge or reveal
yourself as a sham.
MRS. LOVETT
Bravo, bravo.
Pirelli studies the razors for a moment and then turns to the
crowd with a confident smile:
PIRELLI
You hear zis foolish man? Watch and
see how he will regret his folly!
TODD
Friends, who's for a free shave?
TODD
Will Beadle Bamford be the judge?
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 31.
22 CONTINUED: (5) 22
Apparently not.
BEADLE
Glad, as always, to oblige my friends
and neighbors
(to the crowd)
... Let the challenge commence!
BEADLE
Ready?
PIRELLI
Ready!
TODD
Ready.
BEADLE
The fastest, smoothest shave is the
winner.
PIRELLI
(while mixing furiously)
Now, signorini, signori,
We mix-a da lather
But first-a you gather
Around, signorini, signori,
You looking a man
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 32.
22 CONTINUED: (6) 22
PIRELLI
To shave-a da face,
To cut-a da hair,
Require da grace
Require da flair,
For if-a you slip,
You nick da skin,
You clip-a da chin,
You rip-a da lip a bit
Beyond-a repair!
PIRELLI
To shave-a da face
Or even a part
Widout it-a smart
Require da heart.
Not just-a da flash,
It take-a panache,
It take-a da passion
For da art.
PIRELLI
To shave-a da face,
To trim-a da beard,
To make-a da bristle
Clean like a whistle,
Dis is from early infancy
Da talent give to me
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 33.
22 CONTINUED: (7) 22
By God!
(Crosses himself with his
razor)
It take-a da skill,
It take-a da brains,
It take-a da will
To take-a da pains,
It take-a da pace,
It take-a da graaaaaace...
BEADLE
(blowing whistle)
The winner is Todd.
Pirelli deflates.
MRS. LOVETT
(feeling the customer's
cheek)
Smooth as a baby's arse! -- (to Todd) -
- Well done, dear!
PIRELLI
(a profound bow)
Sir, I bow to a skill far defter than
my own.
TODD
The five pounds.
Pirelli produces a distinctive chatelaine purse and removes a
five pound note, gives it to Todd:
PIRELLI
Here, sir. And may the good Lord smile
on you --
(a quick stab of a smile)
-- Until we meet again.
PIRELLI
Come, boy.
TOBY
We're pulling out, sir?
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 34.
22 CONTINUED: (8) 22
PIRELLI
(snarling)
We're pulling out, yes. Quickly.
Mrs. Lovett has observed all of this as she moves away with
Todd, who is making his way inexorably toward the Beadle.
EAGER CUSTOMER
Mr. Todd, sir, do you have an
establishment of your own?
MRS. LOVETT
He certainly does. Sweeney Todd's
Tonsorial Parlor -- above my meatpie
emporium in Fleet Street.
TODD
I thank you for your honest
adjudication, sir. You are a paragon
of integrity.
BEADLE
Well, I try to do my best for my
friends and neighbors ... Your
establishment is in Fleet Street, you
say?
TODD
Yes, sir.
BEADLE
Then, Mr. Todd, you will surely see me
there before the week is out.
TODD
You will be welcome, Beadle Bamford,
and I guarantee to give you, without a
penny's charge, the closest shave you
will ever know.
PAGE 35.
Todd and Mrs. Lovett are walking away from the marketplace.
She chatters happily:
MRS. LOVETT
... Like to give me a coronary right
there! What if he had recognized you!
Lord, my heart was beating a mile a
minute, just like a little finch it
was. Aren't those lovely birds now?
Always so twittery and happy...
GENTLEMAN
Sweeney pondered and Sweeney planned.
Like a perfect machine 'e planned...
BANKER
Barbing the hook, baiting the trap,
Setting it out for the Beadle to snap...
GENERAL
Slyly courted 'im, Sweeney did,
Set a sort of a scene 'e did...
The last word echoes ... And then they are gone ...
disappearing from Todd's mind ... swallowed up by the crowd
of pedestrians...
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 36.
23 CONTINUED: 23
MRS. LOVETT
... Suppose it's just me gentle heart,
but I do hate to see a boy treated
like that, no better than your Aunt
Doreen's dog -- Mr. Todd, are you
listening to me?
TODD
Of course.
But then his eyes dart again -- looking for the specters. He
only sees strangers.
She watches him for a moment and then makes her decision. She
moves to a table and opens a drawer. Reaches in and removes
something...
MRS. LOVETT
... It's not much of a chair, I’ll
grant, but it'll serve. Was me poor
Albert's chair. Sat in it all day long
he did, after his leg give out from
the gout, poor dear.
He moves from the window and paces like a caged tiger in the
small barber shop.
TODD
Why doesn't the Beadle come? "Before
the week is out," that's what he said.
MRS. LOVETT
And who says the week's out? It's only
Tuesday.
Todd moves away from her, she pursues, trying to calm and
soothe him...
MRS. LOVETT
Easy now.
Hush, love, hush.
Don’t distress yourself,
What’s your rush?
Keep your thoughts
Nice and lush.
Wait.
(he continues to pace)
Hush, love, hush.
Think it through.
Once it bubbles,
Then what’s to do?
Watch it close.
Let it brew.
Wait.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 38.
27 CONTINUED: 27
MRS. LOVETT
I’ve been thinking, flowers--
Maybe daisies--
To brighten up the room.
Don’t you think some flowers,
Pretty daisies,
Might relieve the gloom?
Ah, wait, love, wait.
TODD
(to razor)
And the Judge? When will we get to
him?
MRS. LOVETT
Can't you think of nothing else?
Always broodin' away on yer wrongs
what happened heaven knows how many
years ago...
Her gentle words have calmed him considerably. She moves even
closer. Risks touching him softly...
MRS. LOVETT
Gillyflowers, maybe,
‘Stead of daisies...
I don’t know, though...
What do you think?
Then--
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 39.
27 CONTINUED: (2) 27
Then--
ANTHONY
Mr. Todd! Thank God I've found you --
(Todd turns, closing the
razor, as Anthony sees
Mrs. Lovett)
... Oh, I'm sorry, excuse me...
MRS. LOVETT
Mrs. Lovett, sir.
ANTHONY
A pleasure, ma'am --
(continues to Todd)
-- You see, there’s a girl who needs
my help -- such a sad girl, and
lonely, but beautiful too and--
TODD
Slow down, Anthony.
ANTHONY
(takes a breath)
Yes, I'm sorry ... This girl has a
guardian so tyrannical that he keeps
her locked away. But then this morning
she dropped this ...
(produces the key)
... It must be a sign that Johanna
wants me to help her -- that's her
name, Johanna -- and Turpin that of
her guardian. A judge of some sort...
ANTHONY
... I've met him, Mr. Todd, and he is -
- unnatural ... Once he goes to court,
I’m going to slip into the house and
release her -- and beg her to come
away with me. Tonight.
MRS. LOVETT
Oh, this is all terribly romantic.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 40.
27 CONTINUED: (3) 27
ANTHONY
Yes, but -- you see -- I don't know
anyone in London --
(to Todd)
-- and I need somewhere safe to bring
her till I've hired a coach to take us
to Plymouth.
ANTHONY
If I could keep her here, just for an
hour or two, I would forever be in
your debt.
Todd stares at him, his mind racing to figure out how this
new twist might aid in his plans.
MRS. LOVETT
Bring her here, dear.
ANTHONY
Thank you, ma'am ...
(to Todd)
... Mr. Todd?
A beat.
TODD
The girl may come.
ANTHONY
(taking his hand)
Thank you, my friend.
He goes.
MRS. LOVETT
Seems like the fates are favoring you
at last, Mr. T.
(Todd grunts, unhappy)
What is it, love? You'll have her back
before the day is out.
TODD
For a few hours? Before he carries her
off to the other end of England?
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 41.
27 CONTINUED: (4) 27
MRS. LOVETT
Oh, him? Let him bring her here and
then, since you're so hot for a little
--
(makes a throat-cutting
gesture)
-- that's the throat to slit, dear.
MRS. LOVETT
Poor little Johanna. All those years
without a scrap of motherly affection.
Well, we'll soon see to that...
TODD
(alert, sees something)
What's this?
Mrs. Lovett joins him at the window. Below, they see Pirelli
approaching with Toby in tow.
MRS. LOVETT
Look at that face, he's up to
mischief.
TODD
Go -- keep the boy below with you.
PIRELLI
Signora, is Mr. Todd at home?
MRS. LOVETT
Plying his trade upstairs, don’tcher
know ...
(she stands on the
staircase, blocking their
way, looking at Toby)
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 42.
28 CONTINUED: 28
MRS. LOVETT (cont'd)
... Would you look at it, now! Don't
look like it's had a kind word since
half past never!
TOBY
Ma'am...?
MRS. LOVETT
(to Pirelli)
You wouldn't mind if I gave him a nice
juicy meat pie, would yer?
PIRELLI
(impatient)
Yes, yes, whatever you like.
Pirelli climbs the stairs, as she takes Toby by the hand and
leads him toward the pie shop door:
MRS. LOVETT
Come with me now. Your teeth is
strong, I hope?
PIRELLI
Mr. Todd.
TODD
Signor Pirelli.
PIRELLI
(reverting to his natural
Irish)
Call me Danny. Daniel Higgins' the
name when it's not professional ...
I'd like me five quid back, if'n ya
don't mind.
TODD
Why?
PIRELLI
Because you entered into our little
wager on false pretenses, me friend
... And so you might remember to be
more forthright in the future, you'll
be handing over half your profits to
me, share and share alike...
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 43.
29 CONTINUED: 29
Todd shakes his head, amused, and begins to turn away when
Pirelli says:
PIRELLI
... Mr. Benjamin Barker.
Todd freezes.
MRS. LOVETT
That's my boy, tuck in.
MRS. LOVETT
Like to see a man with a healthy
appetite. Reminds me of my dear
Albert, like to gorge himself to
bloatation, he did. He didn't have
your nice full head though--
TOBY
To tell the truth --
(he pulls off the wig
which covers his own
short-cropped hair)
-- it gets awful hot.
31 INT. BARBER SHOP -- DAY 31
PIRELLI
... yes, this will do very nicely ...
You don't remember me. Well, why
should you? I was just a down and out
Irish pug you hired for a couple of
weeks -- sweeping up hair and the like
--
(He picks up one of Todd's
razors)
But I remember these -- And how could
I ever forget you, Benjamin Barker?
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 44.
31 CONTINUED: 31
PIRELLI (cont'd)
I would sit right there and watch you,
and dream of the day I could be a
proper barber meself ... You might say
you were an inspiration to me.
PIRELLI
So, do we have a deal, or should I run
down the street for me pal Beadle
Bamford? What do you say to that now,
Mr. Sweeney T--?
Like a thunderbolt--
Todd is on him.
MRS. LOVETT
My my my, always work to be done. Spic-
and-span, that's my motto. Cleanliness
is next to whatever-it-is. So, ah, how
did you end up with that dreadful
Eyetalian?
TOBY
(still eating happily)
Got me from the workhouse 'e did. Been
there since I was born. Got no mum,
got nobody. A wasted soul, that's what
I am --
(a sudden, urgent thought)
-- Oh God! He's got an appointment
with his tailor--
TOBY
If he's late, he'll blame me--!
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 45.
32 CONTINUED: 32
MRS. LOVETT
Wait--!
But he is gone--
TOBY
Signor, you got an appointment...
TODD
Signor Pirelli has been called away.
You better run after him.
TOBY
Oh no, sir. I better wait for him here
or it'll be a lashing. He's a great
one for the lashings.
TODD
So, hmmm, Mrs. Lovett gave you a pie,
did she?
TOBY
She's a real lady. Model of all true
Christian virtue.
TODD
That she is ... that she is. But if I
know a growing boy, there's still room
for some more pie, eh?
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 46.
34 CONTINUED: 34
TOBY
I'd say, sir -- (pats his stomach) --
An aching void.
TODD
Then why don't you run downstairs and
wait for your master there? There'll
be another pie in it for you, I'm
sure...
TOBY
No, I should stay here.
TODD
(a sudden inspiration)
I know -- why don't you tell Mrs.
Lovett I said to give you a nice big
tot of gin?
TOBY
(leaps up)
Gin, sir?! Thanking you kindly, sir!
You're a Christian indeed!
Then he goes to the trunk, leans down to open it, the camera
follows him down and up again, when he rises--
The GENTLEMAN is standing right behind him!
Todd turns.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 47.
34 CONTINUED: (2) 34
GENTLEMAN
His hands were quick, his fingers strong.
It stung a little but not for long.
STUDENT
And those who thought him a simple clod
Were soon reconsidering under the sod...
TOURIST
Consigned there with a friendly prod
From Sweeney Todd,
The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.
JUDGE
This is the second time, sir, that you
have been brought before this bench.
Though it is my earnest wish to ever
temper justice with mercy, your
persistent dedication to a life of
crime is an abomination before God and
man.
JUDGE
I therefore sentence you to hang by
the neck until you are dead and may
the Lord have mercy on your soul.
JUDGE
This court is adjourned.
The Judge and the Beadle walk away from the impressive
edifices of the Old Bailey.
BEADLE
Thank you, your Honor. Just the
sentence we wanted.
JUDGE
Was he guilty?
BEADLE
Well, if he didn't do it, he's surely
done something to warrant a hanging.
JUDGE
(quietly)
What man has not?
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 49.
36 CONTINUED: 36
BEADLE
Sir?
JUDGE
No matter -- Come, walk home with me.
I have news for you, my friend. In
order to shield her from the evils of
this world, I have decided to marry my
dear Johanna.
BEADLE
Ah, sir, happy news indeed.
JUDGE
Strange, though, when I offered myself
to her she showed a certain ...
reluctance.
BEADLE
Excuse me, my lord,
May I request, my lord,
Permission, my lord, to speak?
Forgive me if I suggest, my lord,
You're looking less than your best, my lord,
There's powder upon your vest, my lord.
And stubble upon your cheek,
And ladies, my lord, are weak.
JUDGE
Stubble, you say? Perhaps at times I
am a little overhasty with my morning
ablutions...
BEADLE
(cheerily)
Fret not though, my lord,
I know a place, my lord,
A barber, my lord, of skill.
Thus armed with a shaven face, my lord,
Some eau de cologne to brace my lord
And musk to enhance the chase, my lord,
You'll dazzle the girl until
She bows to your every will.
JUDGE
A barber, eh? Take me to him.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 50.
36 CONTINUED: (2) 36
BEADLE
I am honored, my lord. His name is
Todd ... Sweeney Todd. And he is the
very last word in barberin'.
MRS. LOVETT
You ought to slow down a bit, lad.
It'll go to your head.
TOBY
Weaned on the stuff, I was. They used
to give it to us at the workhouse,
so's we could sleep. Not that you'd
ever want to sleep in that place,
ma'am. Not with the things wot happen
in the dark.
MRS. LOVETT
That's nice, dear ... I think I'll
just pop in on Mr. Todd for a tick.
You'll be all right here?
TOBY
Leave the bottle.
She goes.
38 INT. BARBER SHOP -- DAY 38
MRS. LOVETT
Gawd, the lad is drinking me out of
house and home, how long until Pirelli
gets back?
TODD
He won't be back.
MRS. LOVETT
(instantly suspicious)
Mr. T., you didn't!
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 51.
38 CONTINUED: 38
She lifts the lid and sees Pirelli's body at the bottom of
the chest.
MRS. LOVETT
(spinning on Todd)
You're barking mad! Killing a man wot
done you no harm!
TODD
He recognized me from the old days. He
tried to blackmail me -- half my
earnings.
MRS. LOVETT
(relieved)
Oh well, that's a different matter!
For a moment there I thought you'd
lost your marbles!
MRS. LOVETT
Ooooh! All that blood! Enough to make
you come all over gooseflesh, ain't
it? Poor bugger. Oh, well.
MRS. LOVETT
(looking through purse)
Three quid! Well, waste not, want not,
I always say...
(she tucks the purse into
her dress)
... Now what are we going to do about
the boy?
TODD
Send him up.
MRS. LOVETT
Oh, we don't need to worry about him,
he's a simple thing. I'll pawn him off
with some story.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 52.
38 CONTINUED: (2) 38
TODD
(cold)
Send him up, woman.
MRS. LOVETT
(quickly)
Now, Mr. T., surely one's enough for
today. Don't want to indulge yourself,
after all ...
(she busily starts to
straighten up the room)
... 'Sides, I was thinking about
hiring a lad to help around the shop,
me poor knees not being what they used
to be.
TODD
Anything you say.
MRS. LOVETT
'Course we'll have to stock up on the
gin, the boy drinks like a Barbary
sailor--
TODD
The Judge.
TODD
Justice ... Justice.
Mrs. Lovett gives him a quick kiss and then very quickly
leaves. A beat as Todd prepares himself.
He turns from the window and looks around the shop, shifting
nervously. Now that his great moment of revenge is at hand,
he doesn't quite know what to do with himself.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 53.
38 CONTINUED: (3) 38
JUDGE
Mr. Todd?
TODD
At your service ... An honor to
receive your patronage, my lord.
JUDGE
You know me, sir?
TODD
(a polite bow)
Who in this wide world is not familiar
with the honored Judge Turpin?
JUDGE
These premises are hardly
prepossessing and yet the Beadle tells
me you are the most accomplished of
all the barbers in the city.
TODD
That is gracious of him, sir ...
(indicates for the Judge
to sit)
... Sit, if you please, sir. Sit.
TODD
And what may I do for you today, sir?
A stylish trimming of the hair? A
soothing skin massage?
JUDGE
You see, sir, a man infatuate with love,
Her ardent and eager slave.
So fetch the pomade and pumice stone
And lend me a more seductive tone,
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 54.
38 CONTINUED: (4) 38
TODD
The closest I ever gave.
He whips a sheet over the Judge, then tucks the bib in. The
Judge hums, flicking imaginary dust off the sheet; Todd
whistles gaily.
JUDGE
You're in a merry mood today, Mr.
Todd.
TODD
(mixing lather)
'Tis your delight, sir, catching fire
From one man to the next.
JUDGE
'Tis true, sir, love can still inspire
The blood to pound, the heart leap higher.
BOTH
What more, what more can man require--
JUDGE
Than love, sir?
TODD
More than love, sir.
JUDGE
What, sir?
TODD
Women.
JUDGE
Ah yes, women.
TODD
Pretty women.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 55.
38 CONTINUED: (5) 38
TODD
Now then, my friend.
Now to your purpose.
Patience, enjoy it.
Revenge can't be taken in haste.
JUDGE
(opening his eyes)
Make haste, and if we wed,
You'll be commended, sir.
TODD
My lord...
(Goes to him)
And who, may it be said,
Is your intended, sir?
JUDGE
My ward.
JUDGE
And pretty as a rosebud.
TODD
Pretty as her mother?
JUDGE
(mildly puzzled)
What? What was that?
TODD
Oh, nothing, sir. Nothing. May we
proceed?
Then--
TODD
Pretty women...
Fascinating...
Sipping coffee, Dancing...
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 56.
38 CONTINUED: (6) 38
Pretty women
Are a wonder.
Pretty women.
Pretty women...
JUDGE
Silhouetted...
TODD
Stay within you...
JUDGE
Glancing...
TODD
Stay forever...
JUDGE
Breathing lightly...
TODD
Pretty women...
BOTH
Pretty women!
Blowing out their candles or
Combing out their hair...
TODD
Even when they leave,
They still
Are there.
They're there.
BOTH
Ah,
Pretty women...
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 57.
38 CONTINUED: (7) 38
TODD
At their mirrors...
JUDGE
In their gardens...
TODD
Letter-writing...
JUDGE
Flower-picking...
TODD
Weather-watching...
BOTH
How they make a man sing!
Proof of heaven
As you're living--
Pretty women, sir!
JUDGE
Pretty women, yes!
Pretty women, sir!
Pretty women!
Pretty women, sir!
TODD
Pretty women, here's to
Pretty women, all the
Pretty women--
Suddenly--
ANTHONY
Mr. Todd! I've seen Johanna! She said
she'll leave with me tonight--!
JUDGE
You! -- There is indeed a higher power
to warn me thus in time--
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 58.
38 CONTINUED: (8) 38
JUDGE
Johanna elope with you? Deceiving
slut! -- I'll lock her up in some
obscure retreat where neither you nor
any other vile creature shall ever lay
eyes on her again--!
JUDGE
And as for you, barber, it is all too
clear what company you keep. Service
them well and hold their custom -- for
you'll have none of mine.
He strides out.
ANTHONY
Mr. Todd -- you have to help me --
I've talked to Johanna and--!
TODD
OUT! OUT, I SAY!
In shock.
MRS. LOVETT
All this shouting and running about,
what's happened--?
TODD
I had him -- and then--
MRS. LOVETT
The sailor busted in, I know, I saw
them both running down the street and
I said--
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 59.
38 CONTINUED: (9) 38
TODD
I had him!
His throat was bare
Beneath my hand--!
MRS. LOVETT
There, there, dear. Don't fret--
TODD
(spins on her violently)
No, I had him!
His throat was there,
And he'll never come again!
MRS. LOVETT
Easy now.
Hush, love, hush.
I keep telling you--
TODD
When?!
MRS. LOVETT
What's your rush?
TODD
Why did I wait?
You told me to wait!
Now he'll never come again...
TODD
There's a hole in the world
Like a great black pit
And it's filled with people
Who are filled with shit
And the vermin of the world
Inhabit it--
But not for long!
TODD
They all deserve to die!
Tell you why, Mrs. Lovett,
Tell you why:
Because in all of the whole human race, Mrs. Lovett
There are two kinds of men and only two.
There's the one staying put
In his proper place
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 60.
38 CONTINUED: (10) 38
TODD
No, we all deserve to die!
Even you, Mrs. Lovett,
Even I.
Because the lives of the wicked should be--
(slashes at the air
violently)
Made brief.
For the rest of us, death
Will be a relief--
We all deserve to die!
TODD
And I'll never see Johanna,
No, I'll never hug my girl to me--
TODD
Finished!
TODD
All right! You, sir,
How about a shave?
Come and visit
Your good friend, Sweeney--!
PAGE 61.
TODD
You, sir, too, sir--
Welcome to the grave!
I will have vengeance,
I will have salvation!
TODD
Who, sir? You, sir?
No one’s in the chair--
Come on, come on,
Sweeney's waiting!
I want you bleeders!
TODD
You, sir -- anybody!
Gentlemen, now don't be shy!
Not one man, no,
Nor ten men,
Nor a hundred
Can assuage me--
I will have you!
TODD
And I will get him back
Even as he gloats.
In the meantime I'll practice
On less honorable throats--
TODD
And my Lucy lies in ashes
And I'll never see my girl again,
But the work waits, I'm alive at last
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 62.
44 CONTINUED: 44
MRS. LOVETT
That's all very well, but what are we
going to do about --
(kicks the chest)
-- the dear departed?
MRS. LOVETT
Listen! Do you hear me? Get a hold of
yourself!
MRS. LOVETT
Sit down.
She quickly glances around for Toby and then goes into her
parlor...
PAGE 63.
MRS. LOVETT
There, drink it down -- all the way --
that's right ...
(he does so)
... Now, we got a body molderin' away
upstairs, what do you intend we should
do about that?
TODD
Later on, when it's dark, we'll take
him to some secret place and bury him.
MRS. LOVETT
Well, yes, of course, we could do
that. I don't suppose he's got any
relatives going to come poking around
looking for him...
MRS. LOVETT
Well, you know me, sometimes bright
ideas just pop right into my head, and
I keep thinking...
Seems a downright shame...
TODD
Shame?
MRS. LOVETT
Seems an awful waste...
Such a nice plump frame
Wot's-his-name
Has...
Had...
Has...
Nor it can't be traced.
Business needs a lift--
Debts to be erased--
Think of it as thrift,
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 64.
48 CONTINUED: 48
As a gift...
If you get my drift...
(Todd has no idea what she
is talking about)
No?
(She sighs)
Seems an awful waste.
I mean,
With the price of meat what it is,
When you get it,
If you get it--
TODD
Ah!
MRS. LOVETT
Good, you got it.
(She warms to the idea)
Take, for instance,
Mrs. Mooney and her pie shop.
Business never better, using only
Pussycats and toast.
And a pussy's good for maybe six or
Seven at the most.
And I'm sure they can't compare
As far as taste--
TODD
Mrs. Lovett,
What a charming notion,
TODD
Eminently practical and yet
Appropriate as always.
Mrs. Lovett, how I've lived without you
All these years I'll never know!
How delectable!
Also undetectable.
How choice!
How rare!
MRS. LOVETT
Well, it does seem a
Waste...
It's an idea...
Think about it...
Lots of other gentlemen'll
Soon be coming for a shave,
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 65.
48 CONTINUED: (2) 48
Won't they?
Think of
All them
Pies!
TODD
For what's the sound of the world out there?
MRS. LOVETT
What, Mr. Todd,
What, Mr. Todd,
What is that sound?
TODD
Those crunching noises pervading the air?
MRS. LOVETT
Yes, Mr. Todd,
Yes, Mr. Todd,
Yes, all around--
TODD
It's man devouring man, my dear,
TODD
And who are we
To deny it in here?
MRS. LOVETT
Then who are we
To deny it in here?
Music continues under:
TODD
Ah, these are desperate times, Mrs.
Lovett, and desperate measures are
called for.
She goes to the counter and comes back with an imaginary pie:
MRS. LOVETT
Here we are now, hot out of the
oven...
She holds the imaginary pie out to him with a sly and wicked
smile.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 66.
48 CONTINUED: (3) 48
TODD
What is that?
MRS. LOVETT
It's priest.
Have a little priest.
TODD
Is it really good?
MRS. LOVETT
Sir, it's too good,
At least.
Then again, they don't commit sins of the flesh,
So it's pretty fresh.
TODD
(looking at it)
Awful lot of fat.
MRS. LOVETT
Only where it sat.
TODD
Haven't you got poet
Or something like that?
MRS. LOVETT
No, you see the trouble with poet
Is, how do you know it's
Deceased?
Try the priest.
TODD
("tasting" it)
Mmm. Heavenly.
MRS. LOVETT
Not as hearty as bishop, perhaps, but
not as bland as curate, either.
MRS. LOVETT
Lawyer's rather nice.
TODD
If it's for a price.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 67.
48 CONTINUED: (4) 48
MRS. LOVETT
Order something else, though, to follow,
Since no one should swallow
It twice.
TODD
Anything that’s lean.
MRS. LOVETT
Well, then, if you’re British and loyal,
You might enjoy Royal
Marine.
Anyway, it's clean.
Though, of course, it tastes of wherever it's been.
TODD
(looking past her to
imaginary oven)
Is that squire
On the fire?
MRS. LOVETT
Mercy no, sir,
Look closer,
You'll notice it's grocer.
TODD
Looks thicker.
More like vicar.
MRS. LOVETT
No, it has to be grocer -- it's green.
TODD
The history of the world, my love--
MRS. LOVETT
Save a lot of graves,
Do a lot of relatives favors...
TODD
--Is those below serving those up above.
MRS. LOVETT
Everybody shaves,
So there should be plenty of flavors...
TODD
How gratifying for once to know--
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 68.
48 CONTINUED: (5) 48
BOTH
(indicating barber shop
above)
--That those above will serve those down below!
MRS. LOVETT
Since marine doesn't appeal to you,
how about rear admiral?
TODD
Too salty. I prefer general.
MRS. LOVETT
With or without his privates? --
"With" is extra.
TODD
What is that?
MRS. LOVETT
It's fop.
Finest in the shop.
Or we have some shepherd's pie peppered
With actual shepherd
On top.
And I've just begun.
Here's a politician -- so oily
It's served with a doily--
Have one?
TODD
Put it on a bun.
(She looks at him
quizzically)
Well, you never know if it's going to run.
MRS. LOVETT
Try the friar.
Fried, it's drier.
TODD
No, the clergy is really
Too coarse and too mealy.
MRS. LOVETT
Then actor--
That's compacter.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 69.
48 CONTINUED: (6) 48
TODD
Yes, and always arrives overdone.
(he is suddenly dark and
purposeful)
I'll come again when you
Have Judge on the menu...
MRS. LOVETT
True, we don't have Judge -- yet --
but would you settle for the next best
thing?
TODD
What's that?
MRS. LOVETT
Executioner.
TODD
Have charity towards the world, my pet--
MRS. LOVETT
Yes, yes, I know, my love--
TODD
We'll take the customers that we can get.
MRS. LOVETT
High-born and low, my love.
TODD
We'll not discriminate great from small.
No, we'll serve anyone--
MRS. LOVETT
We’ll serve anyone--
BOTH
And to anyone
At all!
JUDGE
So it's true.
JOHANNA
Sir ... A gentlemen knocks before
entering a lady's room.
JUDGE
Indeed he does ... But I see no lady.
JUDGE
I told myself the sailor was lying ...
I told myself this was a cruel fiction
... That my Johanna would never betray
me. Never hurt me so.
JOHANNA
Sir ... I will leave this place.
JUDGE
I think that only appropriate. Since
you no longer find my company to your
liking, madam, we shall provide you
with new lodgings.
JUDGE
Until this moment I have spared the
rod ... And the ungrateful child has
broken my heart. Now you will learn
discipline...
The large form of the Beadle fills the doorway. She glances
to him, disquieted.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 71.
49 CONTINUED: 49
JUDGE
When you have learned to appreciate
what you have, perhaps we shall meet
again. Until then ... Think on your
sins.
The Beadle covers her mouth with one of his huge hands and
hauls her out--
ANTHONY
JOHANNA!
Anthony sees the Beadle pulling her away from the window as
the carriage clatters off--
ANTHONY
Where are you taking her?! Tell me or
I swear by God--!
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 72.
51 CONTINUED: 51
And we finally see what the Beggar Woman has been watching so
intently...
A new sign hangs proudly over the entrance to the pie shop:
"MRS. LOVETT'S WORLD FAMOUS MEAT PIES!" And then in smaller
letters: "LIKE MOTHER USED TO MAKE."
TOBY
Ladies and gentlemen,
May I have your attention, perlease?
Are your nostrils aquiver and tingling as well
At that delicate, luscious ambrosial smell?
Yes they are, I can tell...
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 73.
52 CONTINUED: 52
TOBY
Well, ladies and gentlemen,
That aroma enriching the breeze
Is like nothing compared to its succulent source,
As the gourmets among you will tell you, of course.
TOBY
Ladies and gentlemen,
You can't imagine the rapture in store--
(Indicating the pie shop)
Just inside of this door!
There you'll sample
Mrs. Lovett's meat pies,
Savory and sweet pies,
As you'll see.
You who eat pies,
Mrs. Lovett's meat pies
Conjure up the treat pies
Used to be!
Just then Mrs. Lovett sweeps from the pie shop with a tray of
hot, steaming pies.
Like her shop, she has been transformed as well. She wears
her somewhat gauche notion of a "fancy dress." Buckets of
decolletage. And her hair has been dyed a rather unique
aubergine color.
MRS. LOVETT
Toby!
TOBY
Coming!
(pushing past a customer)
'Scuse me...
MRS. LOVETT
(indicating a beckoning
customer)
Ale there!
TOBY
Right, mum!
MRS. LOVETT
Quick, now!
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 74.
52 CONTINUED: (2) 52
CUSTOMERS
God, that's good!
Toby scurries inside to get a jug of ale, whisks back out and
starts filling tankards as Mrs. Lovett circulates grandly.
MRS. LOVETT
Nice to see you, dearie...
How have you been keeping?...
Cor, me bones is weary!
Toby--!
(Indicating a Customer)
One for the gentleman...
Hear the birdies cheeping--
Helps to keep it cheery...
MRS. LOVETT
Toby!
Throw the old woman out!
CUSTOMERS
God, that's good!
Toby shoos the Beggar Woman away, but she soon comes skulking
back.
MRS. LOVETT
(continuing to customers)
What's your pleasure, dearie?...
No, we don't cut slices...
Cor, me eyes are bleary!...
(As Toby is about to pour
for a drunken customer)
Toby!
None for the gentleman!...
I could up me prices--
I'm a little leery...
Business
Couldn't be better, though--
CUSTOMERS
God, that's good!
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 75.
52 CONTINUED: (3) 52
MRS. LOVETT
Knock on wood.
She does.
MRS. LOVETT
What's your pleasure, dearie?
(Spilling ale)
Oops! I beg your pardon!
Just me hands is smeary--
(Spotting a freeloader
trying to sneak out
without paying)
Toby!
Run for the gentleman!
MRS. LOVETT
Don't you love a garden?
Always makes me teary...
(Looking back at the
freeloader)
Must be one them foreigners--
CUSTOMERS
God, that's good that is delicious!
MRS. LOVETT
What's my secret?
(To a woman)
Frankly, dear -- forgive my candor--
Family secret,
All to do with herbs.
Things like being
Careful with your coriander,
That's what makes the gravy grander--!
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 76.
54 CONTINUED: 54
CUSTOMERS
More hot pies!
More hot!
More pies!
MRS. LOVETT
Incidentally, dearie,
You know Mrs. Mooney.
Sales've been so dreary--
(She spots the Beggar
Woman again)
Toby!
(Continuing to the
customer, about Mrs.
Mooney)
--Poor thing is penniless.
(Indicating Beggar Woman
to Toby)
What about that loony?
(To the customer as Toby
shoos the Beggar Woman
away again)
Lookin' sort of beery--
Oh, well, got her comeuppance--
(Hawklike, to a rising
customer)
And that'll be thruppence -- and
CUSTOMERS
God that's good that is de have you
MRS. LOVETT
So she should.
CUSTOMERS
Licious ever tasted smell such
Oh my God what more that's pies good!
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 77.
56 CONTINUED: 56
MRS. LOVETT
Hold it--
CUSTOMERS
More hot pies!
MRS. LOVETT
Bless my eyes--!
She sees the man going up to the barber shop. Todd is still
standing at the top of the stairs. He smiles secretly to Mrs.
Lovett as he ushers the man in.
MRS. LOVETT
Fresh supplies!
The man goes into the barber shop as she happily takes down
the "Sold Out" sign and turns again to the customers:
MRS. LOVETT
How about it, dearie?
(expecting more pies)
Be here in a twinkling!
Just confirms me theory--
Toby--!
God watches over us.
Didn't have an inkling...
Positively eerie...
TOBY
(simultaneous with above)
Is that a pie
Fit for a king,
A wondrous sweet
And most delectable
Thing?
You see, ma’am, why
There is no meat pie--
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 78.
56 CONTINUED: (2) 56
CUSTOMERS
(simultaneous with above)
Yum!
Yum!
Yum!
Yum! Yum!
Yum!
MRS. LOVETT
Toby!
Throw the old woman out!
CUSTOMERS
God, that's good that is de have you
Licious ever tasted smell such
Oh my God what perfect more that's
Pies such flavor
God, that's good!!
The image shows his wife, Lucy, smiling and holding Baby
Johanna. The child's features are almost completely obscured
by a stain on the picture.
He looks at it deeply.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 79.
58 CONTINUED: 58
ANTHONY
I feel you, Johanna,
I feel you.
Do they think that walls can hide you?
Even now I'm at your window.
I am in the dark beside you,
Buried sweetly in your yellow hair,
Johanna...
He continues walking...
TODD
Johanna...
TODD (V.O.)
Johanna...
ANTHONY
Johanna...
61 INT. BARBER SHOP -- DAY 61
TODD
And if you're beautiful, what then,
With yellow hair, like wheat?
I think we shall not meet again--
(He quietly slits the
Gentleman's throat)
My little dove, my sweet...
PAGE 80.
TODD (V.O.)
Johanna...
ANTHONY
I'll steal you,
Johanna...
TODD
Goodbye, Johanna,
You're gone, and yet you're mine.
I'm fine, Johanna,
I'm fine!
ANTHONY
Johanna...
BEGGAR WOMAN
(in a demented rage)
Smoke! Smoke!
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 81.
66 CONTINUED: 66
TODD
And if I never hear your voice,
My turtledove, my dear,
I still have reason to rejoice:
The way ahead is clear...
TODD (V.O.)
Johanna...
ANTHONY
I feel you...
Johanna...
69 INT. BARBER SHOP -- DUSK 69
TODD
And in that darkness when I'm blind
With what I can't forget--
It's always morning in my mind,
My little lamb, my pet...
TODD (V.O.)
Johanna...
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 82.
70 CONTINUED: 70
ANTHONY
Johanna...
TODD
You stay, Johanna...
(He quietly cuts the
customer's throat)
The way I've dreamed you are.
(Todd notices dusk outside
the window)
Oh look, Johanna-,
(Pulls the lever and the
customer disappears)
A star!
(Tossing the customer's
hat down the chute)
A shooting star!
ANTHONY
Buried sweetly in your yellow hair...
BEGGAR WOMAN
(pointing to the smoke
over rooftops)
There! There!
Somebody, somebody look up there!
(the passers-by continue
to ignore her)
Didn't I tell you? Smell that air?
City on fire!
She approaches the pie shop, the agitated music matching her
increasing frenzy. She grabs a stunned Toby -- who is
carrying some packages toward the pie shop:
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 83.
74 CONTINUED: 74
BEGGAR WOMAN
(panicked)
Quick, sir! Run and tell!
Warn 'em all of the witch's spell!
There it is, there it is, the unholy smell!
Tell it to the Beadle and the police as well!
Tell 'em! Tell 'em!
She spots Mrs. Lovett emerging from the pie shop and explodes
in desperation, pointing madly:
BEGGAR WOMAN
Help!!! Fiend!!!
City on fire!!!
BEGGAR WOMAN
City on fire...
Mischief ... Mischief ... Mischief... Fiend...
BEGGAR WOMAN
Alms! ... Alms! ...
TODD
And though I'll think of you, I guess,
Until the day I die,
I think I miss you less and less
As every day goes by...
TODD (V.O.)
Johanna...
ANTHONY
Johanna...
PAGE 84.
TODD
And you'd be beautiful and pale,
And look too much like her.
If only angels could prevail,
We'd be the way we were.
Johanna...
ANTHONY
I feel you...
Johanna...
TODD
Wake up, Johanna!
Another bright red day!
(He slits the customer’s
throat)
We learn, Johanna,
To say...
Goodbye...
ANTHONY
I'll steal you...
PAGE 85.
Mrs. Lovett and Todd rest on a picnic blanket, just like any
other couple out enjoying the fine day.
Mrs. Lovett watches happy couples moving about ... dogs and
kids running hither and yon ... military officers squiring
their ladies ... nurses with prams...
MRS. LOVETT
... which is not to say we couldn't
get some nice taxidermy animals to
bring a touch of gentility to the
place. You know, a boar's head or
two...
(glancing at the
unresponsive Todd)
Mr. T., are you listening to me?
TODD
Of course.
MRS. LOVETT
Then what did I just say?
TODD
(back in his somber
reflections)
There must be a way to the Judge!
MRS. LOVETT
(snaps)
The bloody old Judge! Always harping
on the bloody old Judge!
(she massages his neck)
We got a nice respectable business
now, money coming in regular and --
since we're careful to pick and choose
-- only strangers and such like wot
won't be missed -- who's going to
catch on?
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 86.
82 CONTINUED: 82
No response from Todd. She leans across and pecks him on the
cheek:
MRS. LOVETT
Oooh, Mr. Todd--
(Kisses him again)
I'm so happy--
(Again)
I could--
(Again)
Eat you up, I really could!
You know what I'd like to Do, Mr. Todd?
(Kisses him)
What I dream--
(Again)
If the business stays as good,
Where I'd really like to go--
(No response)
In a year or so...
(No response)
Don't you want to know?
TODD
(couldn't care less)
Of course.
MRS. LOVETT
Do you really want to know?
TODD
(forces a pained smile)
Yes, yes, I do, I do.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 87.
82 CONTINUED: (2) 82
TODD
(grumbles)
Anything you say.
MRS. LOVETT
Wouldn’t that be smashing?
And we go to...
TODD (V.O.)
Anything you say,
Anything you say.
PAGE 88.
TODD (V.O.)
Anything you say...
PAGE 89.
TODD (V.O.)
Anything you say...
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 90.
90 CONTINUED: 90
Mrs. Lovett and Todd getting married. This being her fantasy,
after all, she wears white. Todd is in a constricting morning
coat with a rakish top hat. Toby, the best man, watches
proudly.
A dark shape quickly moves past the guest -- Todd -- then the
guest slides down the wall -- a splash of blood on the
wallpaper-
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 91.
93 CONTINUED: 93
MRS. LOVETT
Brought you some breakfast, dear, farm
fresh eggs and a dollop of lovely
clotted cream, only the best for my...
She stops when he realizes he isn't even listening to her.
Her heart sinks seeing him at the window, wearing his
obsession like a cloak.
MRS. LOVETT
Mr. T., might I ask you a question?
TODD
(not turning)
Mm?
MRS. LOVETT
What did your Lucy look like?
He turns to her.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 92.
95 CONTINUED: 95
MRS. LOVETT
You heard me ... (a beat) ... Can't
really remember can you?
TODD
She had yellow hair.
MRS. LOVETT
You've got to leave all this behind
you now. She's gone ... You keep
looking down into the grave, you're
never gonna look up. And life will
just pass right by ... Life is for the
alive, my dear.
MRS. LOVETT
We could have a life we two ... Maybe
not like I dreamed, maybe not like you
remember ... But we could get by.
MRS. LOVETT
Come away from the window.
A long beat.
SUDDENLY REVEALING--
The Gentleman!
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 93.
95 CONTINUED: (2) 95
Then the bell rings outside the shop ... Todd turns ... the
Gentleman is gone ... we hear footsteps climbing the
stairs...
ANTHONY
Mr. Todd ... Mrs. Lovett, ma'am ...
(sinks into a chair) ... Seems I've
not slept in a week -- but it's done--
TODD
What is it, Anthony?
ANTHONY
(bitter)
He has her locked in a madhouse.
TODD
You've found Johanna?
ANTHONY
For all the good it'll do -- it’s
impossible to get to her.
TODD
A madhouse ... A madhouse ... Where?
ANTHONY
Fogg's Asylum. But I've circled the
place a dozen times. There’s no way
in. It's a fortress.
TODD
(a whisper)
I've got him.
ANTHONY
Mr. Todd?
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 94.
95 CONTINUED: (3) 95
TODD
(to Anthony)
We've got her ... Where do you suppose
all the wigmakers of London go to
obtain their human hair? Bedlam. They
get their hair from the lunatics at
Bedlam--
ANTHONY
I don't understand--
TODD
We shall set you up as a wigmaker in
search of hair -- that will gain you
access -- then you will take her.
ANTHONY
Yes...
TODD
You will not be deterred -- You will
slaughter the world -- To bring her
here.
ANTHONY
Yes.
Then Todd is all action, hurries to get some money and gives
it to Anthony, as:
TODD
Go and outfit yourself properly -- you
are to be a gentlemen wigmaker. When
you return we shall dispatch a letter
to this Mr. Fogg announcing your
arrival. Go -- quickly now!
ANTHONY
(clasping Todd's hand)
Mr. Todd -- how can I ever--?
TODD
Go!
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 95.
95 CONTINUED: (4) 95
MRS. LOVETT
Dear, I wonder if--
TODD
Fetch the boy.
MRS. LOVETT
Don't you think it's time you--
TODD
Fetch the boy.
Mrs. Lovett begins going down the stairs outside the barber
shop.
Then she stops. She stands for a long moment, disturbed that
Todd's demons are again devouring him.
She looks down and sees Toby washing the tables in the
outdoor garden. Toby is serious about his work, vigorously
scrubbing the tables with soap and water.
She watches him for a moment and then continues down the
steps:
MRS. LOVETT
Toby ... Mr. Todd requires you.
TOBY
Yes'm.
TOBY
Mr. T.?
TODD
(still writing)
You know where the Old Bailey is?
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 96.
97 CONTINUED: 97
TOBY
Oh, yes, sir. Not that I ever--
TODD
(interrupts, folding up
letter)
Take this there and seek out a Judge
Turpin. Repeat that. Repeat that.
TOBY
Go to the Old Bailey. Find Judge
Turpin.
TODD
(handing him letter)
Put this into his hands. Only to him.
Do you understand?
TOBY
Yes, sir, and while I'm out do you
mind if I stop by the grocer and pick
up the--
TODD
DON'T CHATTER, BOY! You are not to
stop! You are not to speak! You are to
deliver this letter! DO YOU
UNDERSTAND?!
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 97.
101 CONTINUED: 101
MRS. LOVETT
Where you been, lad? We had quite the
luncheon rush! Me poor bones is ready
to drop...
(She looks at him, notes
his dark expression.)
What is it, Toby?
TOBY
Mr. Todd sent me on an errand ... And
on the way back I went by the
workhouse. And I was thinkin' ... But
for you I would be there now. Or
someplace worse.
A beat.
TOBY
Seems like the Good Lord sent you for
me.
MRS. LOVETT
Oh, love, I feel quite the same way--
TOBY
Hear me out, mum ... You know there's
nothing I wouldn't do for you. Say, if
there was someone around -- someone
bad -- only you didn't know it--
MRS. LOVETT
(concerned)
What is this? What are you talking
about?
TOBY
Nothing's gonna harm you,
Not while I'm around.
Nothing gonna harm you,
No, sir,
Not while I'm around...
MRS. LOVETT
What do you mean, "someone bad"?
TOBY
Demons are prowling
Everywhere
Nowadays.
I'll send 'em howling,
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 98.
101 CONTINUED: (2) 101
I don't care--
I got ways.
MRS. LOVETT
Darling, hush now, there's no need for
this...
TOBY
No one's gonna hurt you,
No one's gonna dare.
Others can desert you--
Not to worry--
Whistle, I'll be there.
Demons'll charm you
With a smile
For a while,
But in time
Nothing can harm you,
Not while I'm around.
Music continues:
MRS. LOVETT
What is this foolishness now? What are
you talking about?
TOBY
Little things wot I been thinking ...
About Mr. Todd...
TOBY
Being close and being clever
Ain't like being true,
I don't need to,
I won't never
Hide a thing from you,
Like some.
MRS. LOVETT
Now, Toby dear, haven't we had enough
of this foolish chatter? ...
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 99.
101 CONTINUED: (3) 101
MRS. LOVETT (cont'd)
(reaching for her purse)
... Here, how about I give you a shiny
new penny and you can fetch us some
nice toffees--?
TOBY
That's Signor Pirelli's purse!
MRS. LOVETT
No, no, love -- this is just something
Mr. T. give me for my birthday--
TOBY
See that proves it -- what I been
thinkin'--
(He stands, urgently
pulling her hand)
We gotta go, ma'am, right now -- we
gotta find the Beadle and get the law
here--
She pulls him down to her again, agitated, her mind racing:
MRS. LOVETT
Hush now, Toby, hush ... Here, you
just sit next to me nice and quiet ...
(calming)
... How could you think such a thing
of Mr. Todd, who's been so good to us?
The music continues as she holds him. There are tears in her
eyes. But we see that her gentle song has calmed him.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 100.
101 CONTINUED: (4) 101
MRS. LOVETT
(softly)
Funny we should be having this little
chat right now ... 'Cause I was just
thinkin', you know how you've always
fancied coming into the bakehouse with
me to help make the pies?
TOBY
(dreamily)
Yes, ma'am.
She quickly dries her eyes and then turns him to look at her.
MRS. LOVETT
(smiles)
Well ... no time like the present.
TOBY
My heart bleeds for you havin' to go
up and down all these stairs!
MRS. LOVETT
Well, that'll be your job now.
TOBY
Yes, ma'am!
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 101.
103 CONTINUED: 103
TOBY
Coo, quite a stink, ain't there?
MRS. LOVETT
Those grates go right down to the
sewers and the whiffs come up, always
a few rats gone home to Jesus down
there.
TOBY
So -- where do I start?!
MRS. LOVETT
Now this would be the bake oven ...
Ten dozen at a time. Always be sure
the doors is closed properly, like
this.
TOBY
(trying to remember it
all)
Yes'm, always closed properly.
MRS. LOVETT
And here's the grinder ...
(demonstrates it)
... You pop in the meat, give it a
good grind and it comes out here.
TOBY
(practicing with the
grinder)
Good grind, comes out there.
MRS. LOVETT
That's my boy. Smoothly, smoothly --
Now I've got to pop upstairs, back in
two shakes, all right?
TOBY
Yes'm.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 102.
103 CONTINUED: (2) 103
TOBY
Do you think I might have a pie while
I wait?
MRS. LOVETT
As many as you like, son ... As many
as you like.
A120
105 INT. FOGG'S ASYLUM -- EVENING 105
FOGG
... Oh yes, sir, I agree it would be
to our mutual interest to come to some
arrangement in regard to my poor
children's hair.
ANTHONY
Yes.
Fogg goes into the crowded cell -- the inmates, all blonde
women, scurry back, clearly terrified of Fogg. Anthony sees
Johanna, wearing a filthy straitjacket, hunched like a feral
animal, cowering in a corner of the cell.
ANTHONY
(points)
That one has hair the shade I need.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 103.
105 CONTINUED: 105
FOGG
Come, child. Smile for the gentleman
and you shall have a sweetie.
Johanna’s eyes shoot wide when she sees Anthony, but she says
nothing.
FOGG
(prepares scissors)
Now, where shall I cut?
ANTHONY
Not a word, Mr. Fogg, or it will be
your last ... Now, I leave you to the
mercy of your “children.”
Todd and Mrs. Lovett are hurrying down the stairs from the
barber shop, urgent. Todd has a razor.
MRS. LOVETT
... I got him locked in -- but if he
escapes he’ll go to the law!
TODD
Then he can't escape.
MRS. LOVETT
Mr. T. -- I don't know -- maybe we
could--
TODD
The Judge will be here soon! I have no
time, woman! Come on--!
The Beadle!
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 104.
106 CONTINUED: 106
MRS. LOVETT
Excuse me, sir! -- You gave me a
fright.
BEADLE
Not my intention, good madam, though I
am here on official business.
(elaborately prepares a
pinch of snuff)
You see, there's been complaints.
About the stink from your chimney.
They say at night, it's something most
foul. Health regulations -- and the
general public welfare, naturally --
being my duty, I'm afraid I'll have to
take a look ...
(inhales the snuff,
Sneezes and daintily
wipes his nose)
... at your bakehouse.
TODD
(smoothly)
Of course ... But first why don't you
come upstairs and let me attend to
you?
BEADLE
Much as I do appreciate tonsorial
adornment, I really ought see to my
"official" obligations first.
TODD
An admirable sentiment -- But I must
ask you, out of professional curiosity
you understand, is that a cream or a
tallow pomade?
BEADLE
(touches his hair)
Oh, not a pomade at all! Me secret is
a touch of ambergris.
TODD
But, sir, hair that delicate requires
a genuine pomade! Come along, let me
show you the difference.
BEADLE
(considering)
Well ... you are the expert in these
matters...
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 105.
106 CONTINUED: (2) 106
TODD
And we'll finish you off with a nice
facial rub of bay rum.
BEADLE
Oooh, bay rum is bracing.
TODD
And all on the house, for my friend,
Beadle Bamford.
BEADLE
Well, sir, I take that very kindly ...
Lead on.
TODD
(bowing)
I am, sir, entirely at your --
(his eyes flit to Mrs.
Lovett)
-- disposal.
From across the street, we see Todd leading the Beadle up the
stairs to the barber shop, chatting with him easily.
It is a fingernail.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 106.
108 CONTINUED: 108
As --
TOBY
MRS. LOVETT! MRS. LOVETT! LET ME OUT!
MRS. LOVETT!
The thundering roar from the bake oven seems to rise to match
his frenzy as--
Lost in rapture.
The Gentleman, the Banker, the General move into the frame
with purpose, impatient.
The Gentleman flicks out his handkerchief and begins to clean
the blood off Todd's face -- he is not gentle, the blood
smears--
GENTLEMAN
The engine roared, the motor hissed,
And who could see how the road would twist...?
BANKER
In Sweeney's ledger the entries matched:
A Beadle arrived, and a Beadle dispatched...
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 107.
109 CONTINUED: 109
GENERAL
To satisfy the hungry god
Of Sweeney Todd...
Todd sees that more and more of the ghastly specters are
moving around the room -- multiplying exponentially -- we see
the TOURIST, the STUDENT, the PRIEST and others.
They are more intrusive than they have ever been -- touching
Todd -- eagerly preparing him for the finale of his drama --
GHOSTS
(variously)
Sweeney! Sweeney!
Sweeney! Sweeney! Sweeney!
GHOSTS
Sweeney!
Sweeeeeeneeeeey...!
GHOSTS (V.O.)
Sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeneeeeeeeeeeeey...
Sweeneysweeneysweeneysweeney...
MRS. LOVETT
Toby!
Where are you, love?
TODD
Toby!
Where are you, lad?
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 108.
110 CONTINUED: 110
MRS. LOVETT
Nothing’s gonna harm you...
TODD
Toby!
MRS. LOVETT
Not while I’m around...
TODD
Toby!
MRS. LOVETT
Nothing’s gonna harm you,
Darling...
TODD
Nothing to be afraid of boy...
MRS. LOVETT
Not while I’m around.
TODD
Toby...
MRS. LOVETT
Demons are prowling everywhere
Nowadays...
TODD
Toby...
ANTHONY
Mr. Todd...? No matter. You wait for
him here -- I'll return with the coach
in less than half an hour...
ANTHONY
Don't worry, darling, in those
clothes, no one will recognize you ...
You're safe now.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 109.
111 CONTINUED: 111
JOHANNA
(darkly ironic)
Safe ... So we run away and then all
our dreams come true?
ANTHONY
I hope so...
JOHANNA
I have never had dreams. Only
nightmares.
ANTHONY
Johanna ... When we’re free of this
place all the ghosts will go away.
JOHANNA
No, Anthony, they never go away.
ANTHONY
I'll be right back to you ... Half an
hour and we'll be free.
He goes.
Then she sees the Beggar Woman approaching from across the
street...
BEGGAR WOMAN
Beadle ... Beadle ...
No good hiding, I saw you!
Are you in there still?
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 110.
113 CONTINUED: 113
BEGGAR WOMAN
Beadle dear, Beadle...
BEGGAR WOMAN
Beadle deedle deedle deedle deedle dumpling,
Beadle, dumpling, Be-deedle dumpling...
SUDDENLY--
TODD
What are you doing here?!
BEGGAR WOMAN
(clutching at his arm)
Ah, evil is here, sir. The stink of
evil -- from below -- from her! ...
(calling)
... Beadle dear, Beadle!
BEGGAR WOMAN
(still clutching at him)
She's the Devil's wife! Oh, beware
her, sir. She with no pity ...
(slowing, looking at him
more closely)
...in her heart...
TODD
Out of here! Now!
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 111.
113 CONTINUED: (2) 113
BEGGAR WOMAN
(really peering at him
now)
Hey, don't I know you, mister?
JUDGE
Where is she? Where's the girl?
TODD
Below, your Honor. With my neighbor.
Thank heavens the sailor did not
molest her. Thank heavens, too, she
has seen the error of her ways.
JUDGE
She has?
TODD
Oh yes, sir, your lesson was well
learned. She speaks only of you,
longing for forgiveness.
JUDGE
Then she shall have it. She'll be here
soon, you say?
TODD
I think I hear her now.
JUDGE
(excited)
Oh, excellent, my friend!
TODD
Is that her dainty footstep on the stair?
JUDGE
I hear nothing.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 112.
113 CONTINUED: (3) 113
TODD
Yes, isn’t that her shadow on the
wall?
JUDGE
Where?
TODD
There!
Primping,
Making herself even prettier than usual--
JUDGE
Even prettier...
TODD
If possible.
JUDGE
(blissful)
Ohhhhhhh,
Pretty women!
TODD
Pretty women, yes...
JUDGE
(straightening his coat)
Quickly, sir, a splash of bay rum!
TODD
Sit, sir, sit.
JUDGE
(settling into chair, in
lecherous rapture)
Johanna, Johanna...
TODD
Pretty women...
JUDGE
Hurry, man!
TODD
Pretty women
Are a wonder...
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 113.
113 CONTINUED: (4) 113
JUDGE
You're in a merry mood again today,
barber.
TODD
(joyfully)
Pretty women!
JUDGE
What we do for
JUDGE
Pretty women!
TODD
Pretty women!
JUDGE
How seldom it is one meets a fellow
spirit!
TODD
With fellow tastes -- in women, at
least.
JUDGE
What? What's that?
TODD
The years no doubt have changed me,
sir.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 114.
113 CONTINUED: (5) 113
TODD (cont'd)
But then, I suppose the face of a
barber -- the face of a prisoner in
the dock -- is not particularly
memorable.
JUDGE
(a horrified realization)
Benjamin Barker!
TODD
BENJAMIN BARKER!
He pulls the lever and sends the body tumbling out of sight
down the chute.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 115.
113 CONTINUED: (6) 113
It's done.
Then...
TODD
(darkly)
Come for a shave, have you, lad?
JOHANNA
No -- I...
He tosses her in the chair, throws back his arm, his razor
ready--
TODD
Surely, yes! Everyone needs a good
shave--!
TODD
Forget my face.
He spins and bolts out of the shop, leaving her sitting in
the chair--
MRS. LOVETT
Die! Die! God in heaven -- die!
Panting, Mrs. Lovett, backs away from him and for the first
time notices the body of the Beggar Woman.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 116.
114 CONTINUED: 114
MRS. LOVETT
You! Can it be? Have all the demons of
Hell come to torment me?!
She grabs the Beggar Woman and starts dragging her quickly
toward the oven as Todd races in:
TODD
Why did you scream? Does the Judge
live still?
MRS. LOVETT
He was clutching, holding on to my
dress, but he's finished now...
TODD
Leave them to me. Open the doors.
MRS. LOVETT
No! Don't touch her!
TODD
Open the doors!
He shoves her toward the oven and leans over to pick up the
Beggar Woman's body--
TODD
What's the matter with you? It's only
a silly old beggar--
Then -- Mrs. Lovett opens the oven doors--
The thundering roar from the oven crashes through the room as
the fiery light slashes across the floor--
TODD
Oh no! ... Oh God ... "Don't I know
you?" she said ...
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 117.
114 CONTINUED: (2) 114
TODD
You knew she lived. From the moment
that I came into your shop you knew my
Lucy lived!
MRS. LOVETT
I was only thinking of you!
TODD
(looking down again)
Lucy...
MRS. LOVETT
Your Lucy! A crazy hag picking bones
and rotten spuds out of alley ashcans!
Would you have wanted to know she
ended up like that?
TODD
(looking up)
You lied to me...
MRS. LOVETT
(desperately)
No, no, not lied at all.
No, I never lied.
TODD
(to Beggar Woman)
Lucy...
MRS. LOVETT
Said she took the poison -- she did --
Never said that she died --
Poor thing,
She lived--
TODD
I've come home again...
MRS. LOVETT
But it left her weak in the head,
All she did for months was just lie there in bed--
TODD
Lucy...
MRS. LOVETT
Should've been in hospital,
Wound up in Bedlam instead,
Poor thing!
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 118.
114 CONTINUED: (3) 114
TODD
Oh, my God...
MRS. LOVETT
Better you should think she was dead.
(passionately)
Yes, I lied 'cos I love you!
TODD
Lucy...
MRS. LOVETT
I'd be twice the wife she was!
I love you!
Could that thing have cared for you
Like me?
TODD
(a harrowing keen)
WHAT HAVE I DONE?!
TODD
Mrs. Lovett,
You're a bloody wonder,
Eminently practical and yet
Appropriate as always,
As you've said repeatedly,
There's little point in dwelling on the past.
TODD
No, come here, my love...
Not a thing to fear,
My love...
What's dead
Is dead.
MRS. LOVETT
Do you mean it?
Everything I did I swear I thought
Was only for the best,
Believe me!
(a heartbreaking plea)
Can we still be
Married?
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 119.
114 CONTINUED: (4) 114
But steps into his arms anyway for a final, triumphant waltz:
TODD
The history of the world, my pet--
MRS. LOVETT
(through tears)
Oh, Mr. Todd,
Ooh, Mr. Todd,
Leave it to me...
TODD
Is learn forgiveness and try to forget.
MRS. LOVETT
(the lost dream)
By the sea, Mr. Todd,
We'll be comfy-cozy,
By the sea, Mr. Todd,
Where there's no one nosy...
TODD
And life is for the alive, my dear,
So let's keep living it--!
BOTH
Just keep living it,
Really living it--!
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 120.
114 CONTINUED: (5) 114
TODD
There was a barber and his wife,
And she was beautiful.
A foolish barber and his wife,
She was his reason and his life.
And she was beautiful.
And she was virtuous.
And he was...
A long beat.
Toby -- staring at him from the open sewer grate. He has seen
everything.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 121.
114 CONTINUED: (6) 114
GENTLEMAN
Attend the tale of Sweeney Todd,
His skin was pale and his eye was odd.
BANKER
He shaved the faces of gentlemen
Who never thereafter were heard of again.
The General emerges ... and the Tourist ... and the Priest
... and the Student...
GHOSTS
(variously)
He trod a path that few have trod,
Did Sweeney Todd,
The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.
BEGGAR WOMAN
He kept a shop in London town,
Of fancy clients and good renown.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 122.
114 CONTINUED: (7) 114
GHOSTS
(variously)
His needs are few, his room is bare.
He hardly uses his fancy chair.
The more he bleeds, the more he lives.
He never forgets and he never forgives.
Perhaps today you gave a nod
To Sweeney Todd.
The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.
GHOSTS
(variously)
Sweeney wishes the world away,
Sweeney’s weeping for yesterday,
Hugging the blade, waiting the years,
Hearing the music that nobody hears.
Sweeney waits in the parlor hall,
Sweeney leans on the office wall.
No one can help, nothing can hide you--
Isn't that Sweeney there beside you?
Sweeney wishes the world away,
Sweeney's weeping for yesterday,
Is Sweeney!
There he is, it's Sweeney!
Sweeney! Sweeney!
Revealing--
We circle them:
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 123.
114 CONTINUED: (8) 114
GHOSTS
Attend the tale of Sweeney Todd!
He served a dark and a hungry god!
TODD
(sharply to Mrs. Lovett)
To seek revenge may lead to hell.
MRS. LOVETT
(coldly to him)
But everyone does it, if seldom as well--
GHOSTS
As Sweeney Todd...
The Demon Barber of Fleet...
GHOSTS
... Street!
Finally she gives him a grim little smile and disappears into
the darkness.
He stands alone.
He falls...
Dead.
(CONTINUED)
PAGE 124.
114 CONTINUED: (9) 114
Snap to black.
The End