I won’t lie to you, I don’t get out much but rest assured, when I do, I make my way to the corner Blockbuster to check out all the new releases with gusto. Much like bears, I too go into hibernation once the cold weather hits so I become very interested in the weekly DVD releases. I suppose once the weather turns to sunnier times I will actually review a new theatre movie but for the moment I am taking time to share my thoughts on current rental releases. I have always been a fan of Tim Burton, I thoroughly enjoy dark humour and cinematic vision. His films are always visually stunning and take the viewer on an unfogettable ride so I was very happy with my latest rental choice of The Corpse Bride. Obviously, I meant to actually see it in the theatre but somehow missed it. (Ahem, it may have been cold outside or I was feeling particularly reclusive at the time.) 

Much like Burton’s “Nightmare Before Christmas” this is a stop-motion film and extremely well-done. I love movies with a whimiscal feel and let me tell you, this film did not disappoint. Johnny Depp’s voice performance is wonderful, very reminiscient of this Sleepy Hollow characte and Helena Bonham Carter’s vocal work is particularly worth mentioning, she brings a haunting quality to the Corpse Bride. For a character that could have been plain frightening to a younger viewer, Bonham Carter’s talents bring a humanity to her and makes her the most sympathetic character of the film. Although I do know that Bonham Carter and Burton are a couple and that might have influenced the casting on the director’s part, I would have to say that all the voices were well-cast. In addition to Depp and Bonham Carter, there is Emily Watson, Richard E. Grant, Joanna Lumley, Tracy Ullman, and Albert Finney. 

I would definately catagorize this film as being directed at an adult audience and that is not saying that there are elements that aren’t suitable for younger viewers but my point of contention is that it may be a bit boring for the kids. I just don’t think that they will fully appreciate the artistry of the film, savour the whimsy or understand the dark humour. In the end, this film is a Burton creation to its core, moody, haunting, and oddly uplifting.

I also want to say that I honestly fell in love with Danny Elfman’s score, it’s beautiful and unforgettable. I highly recommend listening to Victor’s theme and getting lost in the tune.

Oh yes, the DVD also includes some nice special features for movie geeks like me who like to know how everything was done.

Tags: DVD, Uncategorized|
Posted By: angrygnomer | Feb 15th