With his latest film and sequel to Beetlejuice set for release in cinemas next month, we take a look at our top five favourite Tim Burton films…
Sweeney Todd: of course we know that Tim Burton can do dark and gothic with style and ease – which is very much on show on his film adaptation of Stephen Sondheim’s musical. But it is also evident through this bloody and ultimately tragic story, he uncovers a dark humour and slight compassion (even though of course it is impossible to condone Sweeney Todd’s course of action for revenge) that keeps the audience engaged throughout. Is it brutal? Absolutely but it is also compelling to watch unfold, particularly with Johnny Depp giving such an assured central performance along with Helena Bonham Carter’s immensely enjoyable take on Mrs Lovett.
Batman: while Tim Burton did do two Batman films, it is the first one that really stands out for me. There is a dark broodiness to every aspect of this film that really captures Gotham city well, feeling authentically chilling in places – particularly when combined with Jack Nicholson’s memorably droll performance as The Joker. There may have been many Batman films since – but you really can’t beat this one! Michael Keaton also does a great job of highlighting the different aspects of Bruce Wayne’s character that makes him feel grounded.
Dark Shadows: it was impossible not to fall in love with this quirky, camp and quite frankly over the top comedy that was based on the tv series that ran from 1966-1971. The plentiful quips combined with the combination of gothic style set in a modern day setting just really works – and is clear that all the cast really gave their all to their characters.
Beetlejuice: it wouldn’t be right not to include the original Beetlejuice in this list as it was really quite ahead of its time in terms of the visuals it was using. Yes admittedly perhaps there are certain aspects that feel a little dated, but you can still admire the innovation and imagination that Tim Burton applied to this film. Will the sequel hold up? Only time will tell – but the original is still fascinating in its bizarreness.
Sleepy Hollow: admittedly, I’m not a huge fan of horror films, but this film adaptation based on Washington Irving’s short story (with a few changes and additions added of course) is so much more than that – which is why it is impossible not to revisit time and time again. The action, the drama and romance combined together with the violence is really thrilling to watch unfold. The lack of colour throughout allows all the attention to be on the characters and the story unfolding in a compelling way.
By Emma Clarendon