Wonderful fairy tale

Rating: Null/10 (9 September 2000)

When the film first opened 10 years ago, people thought it was a horror movie because it was made by Tim Burton and had a "monster" as the title character. True, it is modeled on FRANKENSTEIN, but it is really a wonderful fairy tale about being different and creative in a world that values conformity over everything else.
Vincent Price is a delight as the "mad scientist" who doesn't want to rule the world but to make cookies -- and a man who is really a robot with a heart. Like the IRON GIANT, this film appears to be a child's tale on the surface, but it is really profound with insights into human nature.
Depp is totally convincing in his odd Christ-figure role. His eyes and facial expressions show his real talent and range. He manages to be funny, sad, spirited, dejected, and inspiring while hidden under a body suit and thick make-up.
Edward is Tim Burton's alter-ego. If you ever see a picture of Burton, notice the fly-away hair and long fingers. He is showing us the artist in his struggle with a crass, bland world of pastel cookie-cutter houses and drab lives.
Danny Elfman's music here is his best. He has time to develop beautiful themes and variations. I think this is one of the most touching soundtracks ever written.
Since the movie concludes at Christmas time and has a mystical, magical ending, it is an ideal film for Christmas since it manages that rare quality of being really moving without being mawkish.
In the new DVD format, the images are sharp and the music is magnificent.