I thought the casting was excellent, unlike some of the reviews I've read. I'm 55, which may make a difference - grin - but I found the relationship between Nellie and Emil more believable than the one in the movie...Nellie's feelings about the children mirror my mother's in many ways: Equality is fine until it REALLY comes down to the nitty gritty.
I also liked the casting of Bloody Mary. Having her sing was more enjoyable than the other version's dubbing, too. Robert Pastorelli was a bit of a cipher, though. I really enjoy him in parts that show off his talents. Somehow it was REAL obvious that his part had been rewritten so he didn't have to sing. Didn't leave him with much.
I also liked the casting of Bloody Mary. Having her sing was more enjoyable than the other version's dubbing, too. Robert Pastorelli was a bit of a cipher, though. I really enjoy him in parts that show off his talents. Somehow it was REAL obvious that his part had been rewritten so he didn't have to sing. Didn't leave him with much.