The Top 6 forgotten Tim Burton films

Written by: Ana Helena Barboza

Illustrator and director Timothy Walter Burton is known for his eccentric work and creative vision. Known for works such as: Edward Scissorhands, Beetlejuice, and The Corpse Bride; he is still one of the most well-known directors of this day. The issue with that is, when you think of Tim Burton, you immediately associate it with Scissorhands or Batman, but what about the rest? What about his forgotten creative vision? This piece aims to change that, so here are the top 7 forgotten Tim Burton films that should for certain receive more attention as they are proven to receive less attention as they are considerably less known (not in order): 

1. Frankenweenie

Created in 2012, the animated movie tells the story of a young boy named Victor Frankenstein. The story became known as a symbol of presenting a gothic atmosphere as it is one of the earliest animations to rely thoroughly upon that genre. In addition, the story itself is one of Burton’s most memorable works as it is a black-and-white animation which makes it even more symbolic to the plot. It is also a revolutionary piece as it mixes elements of the gothic style with a few modern elements such as a bit of comedy and mystery. 

2. The legend of sleepy hollow 

              The legend of Sleepy Hollow was created in 1999. It follows the story of Ichabod Crane, who is sent to a village in the town of Sleepy Hollow. He is sent to investigate a series of decapitations but soon enough learns that the town is haunted by a headless knight who seeks revenge. The movie consists of actors such as Michael Gambon, Johnny Depp and Christina Ricci. The reasoning behind people forgetting this movie is that many individuals don’t know that Burton directed it; it is perhaps one of the most interesting movies by him as it not only has a great soundtrack but it’s visual elements are also great as it also has a gothic atmosphere along with diverse costumes and sets. 

3. Sweeney Todd

                The movie Sweeney Todd (2007) tells the story of Benjamin Barker, he is forced to leave his wife and daughter in London for 15 years as he was accused of false charges by a judge who lived in his city; until he finally returns as Sweeney Todd. The character itself can be defined as who Benjamin Barker became after being isolated and accused by the people around him; this symbolizes the change in Barker’s personality and how he assumed a vengeful and obsessed persona. He decides to go to his old barber shop (he used to work there/own the place) where he discovers that it has been turned into a bakery run by Mrs Lovett. She supports him in returning to his work and helps him with his goal of seeking revenge on the man who sent him away as he aimed to steal his wife and daughter for himself to show others the power that he had as a judge. The movie is also a remarkable musical as it was Burton's experience with the musical genre. It has also been adapted into live performances! It is certainly worth the watch to experience a bit of the gothic genre and a new side of Burton’s work.

4. Dark Shadows 

              Dark Shadows (2012),  depicts the story of Barnabas Collins, an imprisoned vampire who was finally set free, which drives him to return to his ancestral home where he discovers that his descendants require his help and protection. It is an interesting comedy which encompasses several elements , such as a fantasy, and adds a haunting atmosphere to it. 

5. Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children 

            Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children (2016),  is an adaptation of the book which goes by the same name; it tells the story of a young boy who discovers a mystery island where children with powers live, he also discovers the tragedy behind the island and the children. It is one of Burton's most visually appealing movies as he creates sets for all of the scenes and avoids CGI and the use of other technological devices as best as he could, which is something very particular about his directing style as he prefers to use older directing styles and tools; this is known because he prefers to use older techniques as it fits into his visual brand of making the actors feel like they are a part of that universe.

6. Hansel and Gretel 1983

             Hansel and Gretel (1983) was a short film directed by Burton. There isn’t much known about its production as it is known as one of Burton’s most unknown films and was streamed once. The movie combines stop motion and live action, bringing a 3d aspect to its characters and adding more depth to the story. His aesthetic is very particular to his style of work, which makes it more distinct. In the case of this movie, he mixes two forms of visual productions, stop motion and live action, something that is mostly particular to this film!