As always, a Burton movie with its own brand of grotesque charm...

Rating: 7/10 (21 October 2012)

An amazing array of Gothic background details and a charming background score are given a chance to highlight the main characters voiced by Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter and Emily Watson in this Victorian story about a timid young man (Depp) and his anxious bride-to-be (Carter) who just happens to be dead. The voice talent of Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter and Emily Watson helps make their characters endearing, wistful and funny. Others in the talented cast are equally good.
The absurd story gets loving attention to detail and mood, its atmosphere and look bordering on Charles Dickens at his darkest. All of it is given a sort of grotesque charm, no matter what the characters or situations are, including a singing maggot! Very original, with the charming "piano duet" for Victor (Depp) and Emily (Carter) by Danny Elfman sounding like a segment of classical music.
Admirers of Tim Burton's art of animation will surely rank this among his best creations. Rightfully, it was nominated for a host of awards in the animation field.