I agree. FUCK Manic Panic. Unless you want to redye every week.
Special Effects makes the best semi-permanent dyes that I've tried. I buy mine from a local record store, but you can order it online. My hair is dirty blonde, and I've never bleached it, but it's still very vibrant and long lasting. It's not good if you don't want to commit though. I kept my hair purple for a while, but stopped dying it in late February in hopes of reaching a more employable hair color by summer. I did get a job, but my hair was definitely still pinkish, even in late July when I quit.
Pentaen: I like the length of the front portion, it is indeed nicely face framing. You could maybe trim up the back a little, except that might be even more Pete Wentzy. Not that that matters. As GenericName pointed out, just avoid badly done eyeliner and posing pantsless with your Morrissey records, and you will be fine.