Tim Burton at his best

Rating: Null/10 (27 February 2004)

After "Planet of the apes" Tim Burton comes back with a good story, tailored for his creativity and skills. "Planet" was a very conventional film, something each experienced director could have done -in fact it was a commissioned film, Tim Burton accepted to do it because he needed money...!
"Big Fish" is a return to form. Burton transforms Daniel Wallace's novel in a very personal movie -which reminds us to "Edward Scissorhands" and "Ed Wood". This film is a declared fairy tale -that's its beauty! People need fairy tales and stories to live with.
Actors are all good. It's interesting to get two different generations of British actors -Finney and McGregor. They act the same role in different moments of life, they really are complementary and at the same time both bring their own charm. Danny De Vito is familiar to Burton's world, he works very well as usual. Also the presence of Helena Bonham Carter (excellent British actress and Burton's girlfriend) and Jessica Lange are welcomed.
Fanciful sets, strange people and a story which never bores. Well done, Mr.Burton! This film is definitely yours!