A heart-warming and thoughtful delight

Rating: 8/10 (23 January 2008)

This was the third time I'd seen this film and finally it hit home. A moving, funny and visually spectacular treat that has one of the most poignant and upbeat endings I can remember. As a Tim Burton film there is a certain anticipation, and I think this can be a problem...there is no Johnny Depp and it's not particularly Gothic so you have to readjust to what it actually is, an emotional and thoughtful piece dealing with the reality, and unreality, of death. That's why it took me a couple of viewings.
Wonderfully wrapped in an Elfman score, the story is a meander through the tall-tales of a dying man and his son's attempt to reconcile truth from fiction when understanding his Dad. There is a tenderness and warmth here that gives this film a wonderful depth. There is also great humour, splendidly presented by the excellent acting and script. Visually stunning throughout, this is a real treat that deserves to be given time to grow on you.
Bottom line....a heart-warming and thoughtful delight.