Simply put, this movie is deep. Terry Gilliam is not a film maker of childrens' tales.. (refer back to the Brother's Grimm). I believe the movie was created more as eye candy then it was for actual interpretation. I found if you just let your mind wonder and enjoy what was on screen you were okay. Gillam always presents fairy tales from a rather dark point of view (then again the real ones are pretty nasty), and this tale was no exception to the rule. Parnassus gives into a want and is paying for it, for the rest of his life. At first it was the greed to have eternal life, then it was lust (well, not so much lust but, the desire to have a relationship and a family), then having made a deal with the devil his daughter was up for grabs. So, you see; sorta dealing with the seven deadly sins as well as presenting themes that even though we are human we still value family. I believe the theme of temptation runs thru this film constantly. However, ultimately a father's love is what endures. (Don't want to give too many spoilers here) The acting, is first rate. Christopher Plummer, is spot on. The cameo's (due to Ledgers demise) actually added to the plot beautifully. In fact, I think it only goes to show how creative Gilliam really is. Warning, the cameo's of Depp is short; but well placed. My issues with this film for kids. The lifestyles that are portrayed by Parnassus and the others are sometimes shady. However, at the same time it also states that you have to do what you have to do to survive. While, I personally found the fantasy world of his daughter rather amusing; I don't think I would be really that happy if my 16 year old knew someone for just a few days and then decided to have an intimate affair with them. (I think you have to see the movie to interpret how the cliques run wild with this). I think the movie would be truly understood at around age 15 or with some children younger who were fans of film and imagery. Adults, hang on for the ride and just think "Strawberry Fields". Oh, yes; a positive message. Sometimes we do things to survive but ultimately we live for our children and that happiness is what keeps us content.