Unforgettable Ed Wood

Rating: 10/10 (20 June 1999)

Tim Burton shows us an Ed Wood who is outwardly bizarre, with his penchant for transvestism, but actually has many "everyman" traits. He loves women physically and is inspired by them emotionally, he loves his work and is determined to find his niche in the world. Johnny Depp is excellent displaying Ed's manic enthusiasm and innocent love of filmmaking. He is saddled with low budgets and knowing that time is literally money takes shortcuts in the process which are hilarious to see. Ed takes delight in making "B" movies in his own unique style. This style befuddles some of his assistants, financiers and his first girlfriend, and results in many unintentionally funny films and hilarious directions to his cast. Martin Landau captures the desperation and wounded pride of Bela Lugosi very well. He also has some of the funniest lines of dialogue while preparing or filming scenes. Ed's friendship with the drug-addicted Bela is truly touching. This film has it all and I will never forget it.