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This is an ambitious project for the normally introspective Gordon (A Midnight Clear). But the film looks great--with a kitsch design that spins out of control with each shift in tone. Lighting, film stock, design and soundscaping alter radically as we switch from one "reality" to the next. Some of the sudden musical numbers seem rather pointless, but the Chicago-style transitions work well--most songs are performance pieces in Dark's mind, rather than full-on production numbers right in the set, as in the BBC series. It's very cheesy at times, but the script's acid wit makes it compelling. Downey is excellent as the bitter and twisted Dark, a kind of evil puppet-master who loses control of his creations. And the surrounding ensemble is excellent, from larger roles like Northam's double character to supporting parts for the sexy Holmes (as a nurse) and the hilarious Brody and Polito (as mob thugs). The problem is that the film is all over the place, veering wildly from broad slapstick to subtle character drama and back again, often within a scene. It's difficult to stay with a film like this, to remain in Dark's head and not get caught up in the swirling, manic imagery. But the excellent cast makes it entertaining and often extremely touching.