Tim Burton is known for producing films that capitalize on macabre-esque styles while also including elements of classic fantasy films. Burton’s style is so incredibly unique that the term “Burtonesque” was created to describe works of art that bear resemblance to his works.
His films – seeming inspired by expressionism – employ gothic undertones that construct bizarre characters and eccentric settings.
According to Britannica, Burton first began his career at the California Institute of the Arts where he first discovered his love for filmmaking and drawing.
Burton proceeded to become an animator for Walt Disney Studios. He later directed “Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure” in 1985, which was a huge success for his first feature film.
Burton then took off running. “Beetlejuice,” “Edward Scissorhands” and “The Nightmare Before Christmas” are just a few of his box-office successes.
One of his common stylistic trademarks is his dramatic color schemes. Burton implements dark, bleak colors and contrasts them with colorful elements, creating a visual discrepancy between the characters and their background.
This color contrast is depicted in “Beetlejuice” with Lydia Deetz’s auroral wedding dress while Beetlejuice’s green hair is the antithesis of the moody background.
In Burton’s 1990 feature film “Edward Scissorhands” this technique is used in an entirely new way. Johnny Depp’s lead role as Edward is the dark contrast while the entire world around him is displayed in light and bright colors.
Burton also utilizes stop-motion animation in many of his works. The minor imperfections only add to the enigmatic ambiance that is rife within his films.
“Corpse Bride,” “James and the Giant Peach,” “Frankenweenie” and “The Nightmare Before Christmas” use jerky movements to their advantage, adding to the unsettling and otherworldly feel.
The use of stripes is frequently incorporated into his films, reflecting the sinister nature of the worlds he creates. Beetlejuice, Jack Skellington, Edward Scissorhands, the Cheshire Cat and the Corpse Bride are all seen wearing at least one outfit that includes this pattern.
Burton has created such a specific film style, that many can recognize his works simply because of his stylistic decisions. When watching your next Tim Burton movie, try to distinguish the specific traits that make the film “Burtonesque.”