An enchanting fantasy. Ten out of ten.

Rating: 10/10 (12 April 2004)

From the imagination of Daniel Wallace (novelist) comes an extraordinary fairytale, adapted for the big screen by John August, and directed by Tim Burton.
Albert Finney takes the helm of this wonderful story which chronicles the life and loves of Edward Bloom. Edwards' son, William (Billy Crudup), has had quite enough of his father's childish fairy stories and never-ending quest to always be the centre of attention. After hearing his father's story about the infamous `Big Fish' at his wedding, William vows never to speak to his father again. It's not until Edward is diagnosed as being terminally ill that the pair once again meet.
William is determined to hear the true story of his father's life before it's too late. The only problem is separating the truth from the fiction.

Ewan McGregor has a fantastic role as the young Edward Bloom. After conquering the town of Ashton, Alabama, Ed realises he has out-grown the small town life. With the arrival of Karl the Giant (Matthew McGrory), Ed leaves Ashton to find his fins in the Big Wide World, armed with enthusiasm and the knowledge of his own death, which he has seen in the eye of a witch (Helena Bonham Carter).
During his journey he encounters Spectre (a perfect village filled with charming people), and the circus, where he falls madly in love with his future wife Sandra (Alison Lohman, later played by Jessica Lange).

This is an enchanting story filled with fantasy, drama and comedy. There are a few twists along the way, and the ending is certainly worth the wait. Ten out of ten.