A Brilliant Fantasy

Rating: 10/10 (5 January 2004)

Many viewers will not understand this film. It brings up questions about what reality is. Is reality the actual historical context of the events? Or is reality the memories that the history lives in? Ultimately, what is real?
This film was incredibly touching, because anyone can relate to Will Bloom's resentment towards his father, involving unfulfilled expectations and disappointment. But the power in the message of this film is that by forgiving, we empower ourselves to heal emotional wounds and get past our own pain and hurt, as well the power of forgiveness bringing a gift of healing to those we have carried the grudge against.
Tim Burton has "grown up" with this film. He does not resort to sappy sentiment nor over the top emotion, but instead provides a tangible undercurrent of longing, love and desire to feel closest to the people that have influenced us the most.
Ed Bloom is not a likable character, in fact he comes off as arrogant and aloof. And yet he is likeable, because there are good qualities in him that his wife and his daughter-in-law are able to find by looking past his faults. It made me think about all the times we get so caught up into looking for the faults in others, rather than looking for the good. Through his stories, Edward is revealed to have ambition, loyalty, conviction, and dedication to the people that make up his life.
Helena Bonham Carter is brilliant as Jenny. She's done so much with a character that is barely drawn. And Alison Lohman continues to prove that she is the next big star coming up, and her likeness to a young Jessica Lange is uncanny.
Go see this film, but go with an open mind. Ask yourself when images do not make sense, what are they symbols for? What else could they mean?
By letting go and using your imagination, this movie is powerful and poignant. It clearly has a message about the importance of those we live for, those we leave behind, and how we continue to live through their memories.