Big Fish, Twice The Man

Rating: 9/10 (27 December 2003)

Greetings again from the darkness. Macabre director-extraordinare Tim Burton delivers his most mainstream, warm-hearted film to date. Based on the Daniel Wallace novel, "Big Fish" is a wonderful double-edged story of the tall tales told by Albert Finney/Ewan McGregor and his relationship with his son played by Billy Crudup ("Almost Famous"). The film features a tremendous cast including Jessica Lange/Alison Lohman as the wife of Finney/McGregor, Burton's real life wife, Helena Bonham Carter (also in a dual role), Danny DeVito, (an overacting) Steve Buscemi and Loudon Wainwright III (of "Dead Skunk" fame). I do not wish to give anything away but the story is a mixture of "The Wizard of Oz", "Forrest Gump" and "The Princess Bride". Burton's remarkable direction, mostly top notch acting, and an extremely entertaining story make this a "must see" for film goers ages 13 and up. Younger kids would probably have a difficult time keeping up with the pace of the story. I keep patiently waiting for Billy Crudup to become the star he should be. Why must we be inundated with Ben Affleck films when Crudup is much more talented? Also, Alison Lohman continues to put together an impressive resume, building upon her success in "Matchstick Men" and "White Oleander". It is a pleasure to watch her development as an actress.