Cohen joins cast of 'Sweeney Todd'

BUCKINGHAM, England, Oct. 13 (UPI) -- Actor Sacha Baron Cohen of "Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby" is slated to join Johnny Depp in the upcoming Tim Burton film "Sweeney Todd."

Moviehole.net reported that Cohen will play an Italian tonic salesman and barber. Although Cohen's character appears in only two of the film's scenes, he is a pivotal part of the story.

"Sweeney Todd" is a dark comedy based on a 19th century English barber who is unjustly imprisoned. Upon escaping, he vows to bring justice to all of London. He soon forms a relationship with Mrs. Lovett, who makes infamous meat pies.

Production for "Sweeney Todd" begins in February.