Tim Burton is a name referenced in many households—scary faces, grotesque plots, impressive films—but how much do you know about him, really? The man behind Corpse Bride, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Edward Scissorhands, James and the Giant Peach, and Wednesday is perfect for this spooky season—let’s get into it.
Burton was born in Burbank, California, in 1958. His childhood was isolated, often feeling judged and alone by other children and even his parents. He disliked growing up in his suburban neighborhood, where he felt entirely out of place. He was criticized by teachers for his art style and creative work, but despite chastisement, he continued doing so. He wanted to work out his emotions in a way for himself, and not worry about what others thought of it. After high school, he won a scholarship from Walt Disney’s own CalArts, a visual and performing arts establishment that had gained notoriety for its educational prowess. He dropped out at 20 to work for Disney instead.
In his first few years at Disney, Burton worked on movies such as Vincent (1982) and Hansel and Gretel (1983). The studio didn’t promote these much, but he got his big break when he was hired to direct Pee Wee’s Big Adventure (1985). Afterwards, he worked on Beetlejuice (1988) and Batman (1989), both respectively with actor Michael Keaton as the main character. Tim Burton was speedily gaining popularity in the film world, known for his grotesque and grungy style with a touch of showiness. However, despite the popularity of the films, critics disliked them greatly—however, this didn’t discourage Burton at all. What did discourage him, however, was that their popularity didn’t help him make it big with his own personal films.
He next worked on Edward Scissorhands (1990) with Johnny Depp, which helped solidify his macabre style. Despite the film’s success, people were a bit worried because of how dark and odd it was. Burton was quoted as saying, “Even though I was lucky enough to have success…there’s something about me — I don’t know what it is — that makes them worry about me in some way or another.”
Tim Burton was known for his work on stop-motion films such as Corpse Bride, which he produced and directed, and The Nightmare Before Christmas, which he produced. He took inspiration from his life for all his movies, but especially so on the Corpse Bride. Main character, Victor Van Dort, was inspired by Burton himself. Even though Victor is from a fantastical Victorianesque era and Burton is from a Californian suburb, the feelings of isolation from Burton’s childhood is clearly written into the character.
Burton’s style is revered for its uniqueness around the world and is a role model for many aspiring filmmakers. He teaches the lessons to not shy away from the dark and gory, that the outsider perspective is important, and that beauty can be found in the darkest of scenes.
Tim Burton is an inspiring director and producer with a recognizable style that paves the way for others to explore their own individuality. He also has very entertaining films, so if you’re into the tragically romantic style, check them out.
Happy Halloween!
