BURTON RAISER
Acclaimed movie director Tim Burton is either a massively talented artist, a deeply disturbed individual or some combination of the two. Seems to depend on whom you speak with. The one person you definitely won’t be speaking with is Mr. Burton himself, who approved of this film but did not participate. The apparently introverted artiste is more of a visual communicator – often drawing, doodling, imagining on paper as his preferred form of interpersonal communication. And his huge accumulation of artwork is what is foremost on display in this first, hour-long episode of a four-episode documentary simply titled Tim Burton Docuseries.
Actor Johnny Depp in the untitled Tim Burton docuseries (Wood Entertainment & Tribeca Film Festival)
Exploring the life and work of this self-described outsider, Burton’s unique worldview seem to have taken hold early in his Burbank, CA childhood and never left his psyche. What’s most fascinating about this episode, ably directed by Tara Wood and impressively edited by Carissa Bronson, is just how long specific images and themes have taken residence in Burton’s mind, along with his continual return to this inner inspiration. Rounding out the exploration of his personal artwork are fascinating interviews with key collaborators including Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Denise Di Novi, Helena Bonham Carter and Danny Elfman. Also revisited is Burton’s huge impact on the film industry in the ’90s, from re-inventing the Batman franchise, the global success of an expected sleeper called Beetlejuice and more. Quirkiness aside, Burton comes off as a focused, creatively adventurous and generous man who is as true to his artistic vision as he is to those he holds dear. He just doesn’t want to talk about it.
Actor Winona Ryder in the untitled Tim Burton docuseries
(Wood Entertainment & Tribeca Film Festival)
Tim Burton Untitled Docuseries (Episode One)
reviewed at Tribeca Film Festival (NOW Special Screening) on June 10, 2024
documentary | United States | 65 minutes | English
Sales Agent: Fifth Season