5 times Tim Burton redefined fantasy filmmaking
What's the story
If there has ever been a filmmaker with an unmatched style, it would be Tim Burton. Known for his imaginative storytelling, his movies blend fantasy with gothic elements, creating visually striking worlds that captivate audiences. Over the years, Burton has given us several fantasy films that have become iconic in the genre. Here are five of them:
Scissorhands
'Edward Scissorhands': A modern fairy tale
Released in 1990, Edward Scissorhands narrates the tale of an artificial man with scissors for hands who struggles to find his place in society. The film is a modern fairy tale that delves deep into isolation and acceptance. Its visual style, with pastel-colored suburbia juxtaposed with Edward's dark appearance, highlights Burton's signature aesthetic. The film received critical acclaim and has become a fantasy classic.
Beetlejuice
'Beetlejuice': A quirky afterlife adventure
Beetlejuice is a 1988 comedy-fantasy film about a recently deceased couple who employ the services of a mischievous ghost to scare away new inhabitants of their home. Famous for its eccentric characters and imaginative depiction of the afterlife, the film was a commercial success and critically acclaimed. Its unique blend of humor and fantasy elements exemplifies Burton's ability to create engaging fantasy worlds.
Wonderland
'Alice in Wonderland': A visual spectacle
In 2010, Burton helmed Alice in Wonderland, giving his version of Lewis Carroll's classic story. The movie traced Alice's return to the whimsical land she entered as a child. Featuring vibrant visuals and cutting-edge CGI technology, it soon turned into one of the highest-grossing movies of Burton's career globally, raking in over $1 billion at the box office.
Nightmare
'The Nightmare Before Christmas': Stop-motion masterpiece
Produced by Burton, The Nightmare Before Christmas was directed by Henry Selick in 1993. The stop-motion animated musical fantasy is loved for Burton's creative vision and Danny Elfman's music. The film is unique for its mind-blowing visuals and unforgettable characters, and continues to be a favorite even years after its release.
Big Fish
'Big Fish': A tale of tall stories
Released in 2003, Big Fish stands out among the director's earlier works because it focuses less on the darker tones typically seen in his films. Instead, it tells a heartwarming tale of a father-son relationship through a series of fantastical stories narrated throughout the movie. Adapted from a novel written by Daniel Wallace with the same title, first published way back in 1998.