Burton sells his visual soul for a script

Rating: Null/10 (6 September 2003)

Perhaps, since this movie, Tim Burton has realized that the macabre he creates is too playful in its intentions compared to what others have tried. Whenever he tries creating moods, whether in 'Apes, Batman 1 & 2, Beetlejuice, Mars Attacks!, or Edward Scissorhands, he is always trying to make something funny or lighthearted about his topics. Imagine if Kubrick did the same, would he be so great?
With Ed Wood, Burton tries to create a story about an unfathomable loser. Depp, one of the most diverse actors I have ever seen--no wonder Burton keeps using him, is wonderfully inspired, but it isn't him or anyone else dominant in the cast--not even Martin Landau--that is the standout.

I am, of course, referring to Vincent D'Onofrio's fleeting moment as Orson Welles. Had Welles himself seen it, I bet he'd have thought it was effective. Granted, Burton strips such a vibrant character of much detail in order to make a B&W version of Robin Williams' character in Dead Poets Society. Still, the amount of elaboration that Vincent puts into the character, even the mannerisms, make him the highlight. He also has some great delivery with milking the audience, if they're smart enough to catch it.
Burton uses his camera more like a stage appliance this time. He probably knew that this was going to bomb upon release, but he made it anyway. Thus he is no different than the character he is making. The fact that Burton's movies keep winning or getting nominated for Makeup awards shows how he focuses on altering the acting element of filmmaking to create props out of people, not characters. Best example: Beetlejuice.
Overall, not as good as the IMDb rating would suggest. I still think Batman Returns is Burton's best work. This isn't too bad, though, for the extreme minority that it appeals to. 2.5 out of 5 stars.