Beautiful, uplifting tale

Rating: 9/10 (4 April 2006)

I must admit, being as (relatively) small minded as I am, it took me a while to finally watch this film. I mean, come on, with a title like "Big Fish"? About a man telling lies? I think you can see where I'm coming from. I was terribly wrong.
The only reason I gave this film 9, as opposed to 10 stars, is because it lacks any discernible plot, something that is normally a very big thing for me. However, that's not really the point. From start to finish the film is so beautifully made, and Ewan McGregor is the brilliant as the larger-than-life everyman, the man so 'big', he always felt like a "big fish in a small pond". And, the ending made me cry, as Edward 'returns' to the river, with "everyone... and I MEAN everyone" is waiting there for him.
It's tempting in the first half, to see Ed Bloom as a mere liar. He tells tall tales that, as an older viewer, I'm quick to dismiss. But as the story unfolds, and Ed's wife says "Not everything your father says is a complete fabrication." I deliberate with Will Bloom, the disbelieving, jaded son of Edward, sick of his father's tales and the seemingly untrue element to all of them. It's not until later on, that we realise that there is an element of truth in them, be they symbolic or otherwise.
Although it is sad when Edward dies, as no-one really wants such a character to die, it is nevertheless an extremely moving and uplifting moment, as Will Bloom accepts Edward for who he is, even if declines to prefer his methods. He accepts Edward, and takes up the mantle as story teller, leaving his father contented at peace, telling a story of such heart-rending, spectacular theatrics that it's almost as if Edward is channeling it through him.
Commendations to Mr Burton again for giving us such an excellent movie. Beautiful and delightfully kooky as you'd expect, his collaboration with the cinematographers and long-term colleague Danny Elfman brings a film that's a must see for all ages. After all, everyone loves a good story!