A terrific Burton film, which is why his latest flicks have been somewhat disappointing

Rating: 9/10 (14 August 2012)

Ed Wood (Johnny Depp) is an underling at a Hollywood studio in the fifties. But, of course, he wants to direct his own films when he can get his hands on the money. One day, Ed is passing a coffin shop when he actually meets Bela Lugosi (Martin Landau), whose prime has vanished, due in part to the former vampire's drug use. Nevertheless, Mr. Wood is thrilled and arranges to meet with Lugosi again. Ed's live-in gal, Dolores Fuller (Sarah Jessica Parker) is not impressed, she would rather he have met Robert Taylor. Not long after this, Mr. Wood, who presents himself well in interviews, does secure funding from a D-list movie producer. While before its time, Glen or Glenda turns out to be a giant bomb. One reason is Ed's too rapid and careless direction and another is its subject matter, cross-dressing. But, even after a severe tongue lashing from the producer, Ed is not discouraged. He finds the money for his new production, Bride of the Atom, from a naive starlet who wants a starring role. This sets Dolores off, for she was promised the role, and she breaks off their relationship. Since Lugosi is the star, the film has more merit than G or G but not much. Lugosi, too, checks into a detox center where he manages to get off the needles. Mr. Wood meets a lovely lady there, Kathy (Patricia Arquette) who becomes his new love. Still, Ed goes on talking his talk, convincing a group of Baptists to fund another science fiction film, which will provide money for their future religious endeavors. Suddenly, Lugosi passes away. There are other huge production problems. Will Ed complete his masterpiece, Plan 9 from Outer Space? This summary of mine does not sufficiently portray this fantastic film about the real director, Ed Wood. It is rip-roaring funny and the cast is superlative. Depp, yes, is great as the title character but Landau is terrific and won an Academy Award. Parker, Arquette, Bill Murray, J.D. Spradlin, Jeffrey Jones, Tina Marie and all of the others are very fine, too. Shot in black and white, as Wood's films were, its presentation is likewise wonderful, with great art direction, sets, and costumes. One must also applaud Burton's visionary direction. Don't settle for tame entertainment tonight. Get Ed Wood and walk on the wild and wacky side!