The ghost of Jack Skellington hangs over this

Rating: 7/10 (30 October 2005)

Am I the only one who's beginning to think that even though Tim Burton is still churning out solid entertainment, his magic touch deserted him ages ago.
To be honest, I don't think he's been involved in a really spectacular film for over a decade. And this "really spectacular film" comes to mind when watching his latest, Corpse Bride. Because both that film and his latest are stop-motion animations.
Yes, I'm talking about The Nightmare Before Christmas, that near masterwork which had some remarkable elements, including a wickedly original sense of humour, interesting characters, a well-played romance, and songs that weren't brilliant but grew on you.
Barring the songs (which are unmemorable and difficult to make out) Corpse Bride has got all of those. But the storyline is less coherent. That, and the film seems more trite and sentimental. Is this because we're getting a little too used to Tim Burton's style of film-making? Or is he just becoming too methodical? Victor (Johnny Depp) is getting cold feet before his arranged marriage to Victoria (Emily Watson). Somehow, he can't even remember the vows before the big day. So he goes for a wander in the nearby forest, where he can rehearse and hopefully put things right. But just as everything seems to come together for him, a venture into the forest unearths the sinister Corpse Bride, Emily (Helena Bonham Carter).
The story is told competently enough to keep you involved, and the animation is superb. At least Burton's visual gift hasn't been diminished; the production design and the faces of some of Corpse Bride's characters, especially the title character, prove that. These stop-motion figurines are voiced by a wide array of talent. Although truthfully, that means little these days; Charlie And The Chocolate Factory's gifted cast couldn't lift it above the mediocre. Fortunately, Corpse Bride is certainly more than "mediocre"; it's guaranteed satisfaction on all levels.
My problem with it is that I was personally looking for more than just mere "satisfaction." Perhaps I'm drawing too many comparisons to The Nightmare Before Christmas? I know this review may sound negative to you, but don't get me wrong. I did like Corpse Bride and I think you will enjoy it. I just expected more. Now, if only Burton could truly rediscover his magic touch once and for all...
Rating: 7/10