Beautiful, fantasy-like tale

Rating: 8/10 (26 January 2016)

We all have that friend that tells crazy stories that seem larger than life, but there is always an element of truth to their stories (Sometimes, you really can't make this stuff up). Edward Bloom is a masterful storyteller, who has led an extraordinary life. Coming from the small town of Ashton, he felt he served a bigger purpose than Ashton could give him so he set out on a great adventure, meeting a gentle giant, a werewolf ringleader, Siamese twins, and most importantly, the love of his life along the way. Edward Junior, his son, tires of his tall tales and becomes resentful towards his father, refusing to speak to him for 3 years until he gets a phone call from his mother, informing him that Edward Sr. is dying of cancer.
Through the stories Edward Sr. tells his on his death bed, we get a glimpse into his life through a fantasy lens, which, under the direction of Tim Burton, is beautifully done. The characters are larger than life, as they should be. And Ewan MacGregor is absolutely adorable as a young Edward Bloom. This is a story of love, a story of forgiveness and overall, a wonderful story. Nearly brought me to tears by the end. Great watch for Tim Burton and fantasy lovers alike.