Best Tim Burton Movies: 20 Top Tim Burton Films

Tim Burton has been a household name for decades.

He is one of the most influential and widely recognized directors out there, with a style that’s instantly recognizable.

His iconic movies have spanned many genres and topics, but all feature dark humor along with an emphasis on characters rather than plot.

He’s best known for his work in the stop motion animation film “The Nightmare Before Christmas” (1993), as well as directing various other family films such as “Corpse Bride” (2005) which he co-wrote with John August.

He has a very unique vision that combines dark humor and horror elements into family-friendly movies.

If you’re looking for a movie to watch this Halloween season, here are some of Tim Burton’s best!

Best Tim Burton Movies

Tim Burton is arguably one of the most influential directors of this era, and his movies have been loved by people all over the world.

This article will explore what we consider the best Tim Burton movies.

Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

“The Nightmare Before Christmas” is a classic animated dark fantasy musical that was released in.

Directed by Henry Selick and produced by Tim Burton, the film tells the story of Jack Skellington, the “Pumpkin King” of Halloween Town, who becomes bored with his annual Halloween routine and accidentally stumbles into Christmas Town.

Enchanted by the bright colors and cheerful nature of Christmas, Jack decides to bring the holiday to Halloween Town but soon discovers that his attempt to merge the two holidays leads to disastrous consequences.

The movie features a unique visual style and a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack composed by Danny Elfman, with classic songs like “This Is Halloween” and “What’s This?” that have become iconic.

The voice cast includes Chris Sarandon as Jack Skellington, Catherine O’Hara as Sally, and Ken Page as Oogie Boogie, among others.

“The Nightmare Before Christmas” has become a cult classic, beloved by both adults and children for its distinctive style, imaginative world-building, and entertaining characters.

The film’s themes of identity, acceptance, and the search for something new have resonated with audiences for decades and continue to make it a beloved classic of the holiday season.

Edward Scissorhands (1990)

Edward Scissorhands is a American fantasy film directed by Tim Burton and starring Johnny Depp.

The story follows an artificial man who has scissors for hands, created by a mad scientist in the 1930s.

It tells the story of a man who was created with scissors for hands and has to find his place in society.

The story centers around an inventor who creates artificial hands with scissor blades and falls in love with a young woman named Kim.

His otherworldly appearance scares her away at first but she eventually takes pity on him and they fall in love as well.

Edward Scissorhands has been praised for its use of beauty and darkness to tell the story of this iconic character’s life.

 

Ed Wood (1994)

Edward Scissorhands is a dark fantasy film directed by Tim Burton and starring Johnny Depp as the titular character.

The film tells the story of an artificial man named Edward who was created by an inventor, but left unfinished when his inventor passed away, leaving him with scissors for hands.

Edward is discovered by a kind-hearted Avon saleswoman named Peg, who takes him to live with her family in their suburban home.

Despite his unique appearance and talents, Edward struggles to fit in with the community and his new surroundings, but quickly befriends Peg’s teenage daughter Kim.

As the community becomes more aware of Edward’s presence, they become increasingly hostile and suspicious of him, leading to a series of misunderstandings and conflicts.

Meanwhile, Edward develops feelings for Kim and tries to win her heart, but is hindered by his own physical limitations and the disapproval of her boyfriend.

The film is a poignant and visually stunning allegory about the importance of accepting differences and the dangers of conformity.

Burton’s signature style is on full display, with eerie, gothic imagery and a hauntingly beautiful score by Danny Elfman.

Dark Shadows (2012)

Directed by Tim Burton, Dark Shadows is a gothic horror-comedy film based on the 1960s television series of the same name.

The film follows the story of Barnabas Collins (played by Johnny Depp), a wealthy and powerful vampire who is buried alive by a witch in the 18th century and awakens in 1972.

Once he is freed from his tomb, Barnabas returns to his family home in Maine to find that his descendants, the Collins family, have fallen on hard times.

He resolves to restore the family name and fortune, but he must first contend with the witch who cursed him, as well as a host of eccentric family members and townspeople.

The film features an impressive cast, including Helena Bonham Carter, Eva Green, and Michelle Pfeiffer.

The production design and costumes are also top-notch, as is to be expected from a Tim Burton film.

While the film received mixed reviews from critics, many praised the performances and visual style.

The humor and tone of the film may not be to everyone’s taste, but it is an entertaining and visually striking tribute to the source material.

Planet of the Apes (2001)

“Planet of the Apes” is a science fiction film directed by Tim Burton and a remake of the 1968 film of the same name.

The film stars Mark Wahlberg as Captain Leo Davidson, a United States Air Force astronaut who finds himself stranded on a planet ruled by intelligent apes.

After crash-landing on the planet, Leo is captured by the apes and taken to a research facility where he meets Ari (Helena Bonham Carter), a human rights activist and the daughter of the ape leader.

With the help of Ari and a small group of humans, Leo attempts to escape the planet and find his way back home.

The film features stunning visual effects and makeup that bring the apes to life in a convincing and impressive way.

The performances by the cast, particularly Helena Bonham Carter and Tim Roth as the villainous General Thade, are also notable.

However, the film has received mixed reviews for its convoluted plot and lack of emotional resonance.

While it tries to be both an action-packed adventure and a commentary on social issues, it doesn’t fully succeed in either area.

Some viewers have also criticized the film for its lack of faithfulness to the original source material.

Dumbo (2019)

Dumbo is a live-action adaptation of the classic Disney animated film, directed by Tim Burton.

The film tells the story of a young elephant with enormous ears who becomes a star of a struggling circus.

However, when Dumbo is separated from his mother and sold to a new owner, he discovers that he has a unique talent: he can fly.

The film boasts an all-star cast, including Colin Farrell, Eva Green, Danny DeVito, and Michael Keaton.

The visuals and production design are a feast for the eyes, with Burton’s signature Gothic aesthetic giving the film a distinct and striking look.

The computer-generated imagery used to bring Dumbo to life is also impressive, with the adorable and expressive character tugging at the heartstrings of viewers.

While the film is a faithful adaptation of the original animated movie, it takes some liberties with the story, expanding on certain characters and themes, and adding new elements.

The film also addresses issues of animal welfare, with Dumbo’s plight and treatment highlighting the cruelty of keeping animals in captivity for entertainment.

Alice in Wonderland (2010)

“Alice in Wonderland” is a film directed by Tim Burton and starring Mia Wasikowska as Alice, Johnny Depp as the Mad Hatter, and Helena Bonham Carter as the Red Queen.

The film follows Alice as she falls down a rabbit hole and enters a fantastical world of strange creatures and magical beings.

The film begins with Alice attending a garden party, where she is proposed to by a suitor she does not love.

As she chases after a rabbit she sees running past, she falls into a rabbit hole and finds herself in a magical world called Underland.

Here she encounters the Mad Hatter and the other inhabitants of the strange world, including the Red Queen, who rules with an iron fist.

Alice discovers that she is the prophesied savior of Underland and must defeat the Jabberwocky, a fearsome dragon-like creature, in order to restore the rightful ruler of the land.

Along the way, she battles the Red Queen and her army, and learns about the power of believing in oneself.

Tim Burton’s vision of Lewis Carroll’s classic story is visually stunning, with bright colors and fantastical landscapes.

The performances are also strong, particularly from Mia Wasikowska and Johnny Depp. The film also features a memorable score by Danny Elfman.

Mars Attacks! (1996)

Mars Attacks! is a science fiction comedy film directed by Tim Burton.

The film is based on the trading card series of the same name from the 1960s.

The film features an all-star cast including Jack Nicholson, Glenn Close, Annette Bening, Pierce Brosnan, Danny DeVito, Sarah Jessica Parker, Michael J. Fox, and Martin Short.

The film takes place in the 1990s and follows a series of events that unfold after a group of Martians arrive on Earth.

Initially, the Martians appear to be friendly and peaceful, but their true intentions are quickly revealed when they begin to attack various cities around the world.

As the Martians continue their assault, a group of humans led by President James Dale (Jack Nicholson) and his team of advisors, including Press Secretary Jerry Ross (Martin Short) and Defense Secretary William G.

Wafford (Rod Steiger), attempt to find a way to stop the Martians and save the planet.

The film is a satirical take on classic science fiction films and features a lot of dark humor.

The Martians are portrayed as goofy and ridiculous, while the humans are shown to be bumbling and inept in their attempts to stop the alien invasion.

Despite the comedic tone, Mars Attacks! is also a visual feast.

The film features stunning special effects, particularly in its depiction of the Martian spacecraft and weaponry.

The film’s art direction is also noteworthy, with Burton’s signature gothic style evident throughout.

Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children (2016)

“Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children” is a fantasy adventure film directed by Tim Burton and based on the novel of the same name by Ransom Riggs.

The film follows the story of Jake Portman (Asa Butterfield), a teenager who discovers a mysterious island where Miss Peregrine (Eva Green) runs a home for children with special abilities.

The film begins with Jake living a mundane life in Florida, feeling out of place and disconnected from his family.

When his grandfather dies in mysterious circumstances, Jake discovers a letter and a series of clues that lead him to a remote island off the coast of Wales.

There, he discovers the ruins of the home his grandfather grew up in and meets a group of peculiar children with unique abilities.

As Jake learns more about the children and their abilities, he discovers that they are being hunted by a group of monstrous creatures called Hollowgasts, led by the evil Barron (Samuel L. Jackson).

Jake joins forces with the peculiar children to protect them from the Hollowgasts and stop Barron from carrying out his sinister plan to use their powers for his own gain.

“Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children” is a visually stunning film that showcases Tim Burton’s signature style of gothic fantasy.

The film boasts a talented cast, including Eva Green, Asa Butterfield, Samuel L. Jackson, and Judi Dench, who bring depth and nuance to their roles.

The special effects and action sequences are impressive, and the film’s plot offers a unique twist on the coming-of-age story.

Sleepy Hollow (1999)

Sleepy Hollow is a horror film directed by Tim Burton and starring Johnny Depp, Christina Ricci, and Christopher Walken.

It is a gothic retelling of the classic short story “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” by Washington Irving.

Set in 1799, the film follows the young constable Ichabod Crane (Depp) as he investigates a series of grisly murders in the isolated village of Sleepy Hollow.

The victims are all decapitated, and the locals believe that the murderer is the legendary Headless Horseman, a ghostly figure who haunts the surrounding woods.

As Crane delves deeper into the case, he begins to uncover a dark conspiracy involving the wealthy Van Tassel family and their malevolent patriarch, Baltus (Michael Gambon).

With the help of Katrina Van Tassel (Ricci), the daughter of the family, Crane sets out to catch the killer and uncover the truth behind the town’s secrets.

The film is a visual feast, with Burton’s trademark style on full display in the eerie and atmospheric setting of Sleepy Hollow.

The cinematography, production design, and special effects are all excellent, creating a world that is both haunting and beautiful.

Depp gives a nuanced performance as the eccentric and sensitive Crane, and Walken is terrifying as the Headless Horseman, even with minimal screen time.

The supporting cast is also strong, with Ricci and Miranda Richardson (who plays Lady Van Tassel) delivering memorable performances.

Batman (1989)

Batman is a superhero film directed by Tim Burton and stars Michael Keaton as the caped crusader and Jack Nicholson as the Joker.

The film follows the story of Gotham City, a dark and corrupt metropolis ruled by a gang of thugs led by Jack Napier (Nicholson).

Bruce Wayne (Keaton), the millionaire businessman who is secretly the Batman, tries to clean up the city and take down the criminals, but finds himself in a difficult situation when he becomes romantically involved with Vicki Vale (Kim Basinger), a reporter who is trying to uncover the truth about Napier’s organization.

The film is known for its darker tone and for its deviation from the comic book source material.

Burton’s interpretation of Gotham City is a surreal and gothic metropolis, with towering statues and art deco buildings.

The Batman suit, designed by Bob Ringwood, is also notably different from the comic book version, featuring a more armored look and a distinct black and yellow color scheme.

Keaton’s performance as the titular hero was initially met with skepticism, but ultimately proved to be a fan-favorite.

Nicholson’s take on the Joker is equally iconic, with his manic laughter and cackling personality.

Big Eyes (2014)

“Big Eyes” is a biographical drama directed by Tim Burton and starring Amy Adams and Christoph Waltz.

The film tells the story of Margaret Keane, an artist who created a series of paintings featuring big-eyed children that became a cultural phenomenon in the 1950s and 1960s, but who was forced to keep her true identity a secret while her husband, Walter Keane, took credit for her work.

The film’s visual style, with its bright colors and exaggerated features, is reminiscent of the paintings that inspired it.

Adams delivers a standout performance as Margaret, portraying her as both vulnerable and resilient as she fights to reclaim her identity and artistic legacy.

Waltz also shines as the conniving and manipulative Walter, who uses his charisma and charm to control those around him.

While the film’s pacing may be slow at times, it serves to build tension and suspense as Margaret struggles to come to terms with her situation and find a way to break free.

The themes of female empowerment and the importance of artistic authenticity are explored in a way that feels relevant and timely.

Big Fish (2003)

“Big Fish” is a whimsical and touching story about the relationship between a father and son.

The film follows the life of Edward Bloom (played by Albert Finney as an older man and Ewan McGregor as a younger man), a charismatic and larger-than-life character who regales his family and friends with fantastic stories about his life.

His son, Will (played by Billy Crudup), has always had a strained relationship with his father, feeling like he’s never been able to connect with him on a deeper level due to the tall tales and exaggerations that he’s grown up with.

When Edward becomes gravely ill, Will travels home to try to reconnect with his father and understand the truth behind the stories.

Directed by Tim Burton, “Big Fish” is a visual feast, with stunning imagery and creative design throughout the film.

It features a talented cast, including Jessica Lange, Helena Bonham Carter, and Danny DeVito, who all bring their own unique energy to the story.

What makes “Big Fish” so special is its heartwarming message about the importance of family and the power of storytelling.

It’s a film that celebrates the wonder and magic of life, and how our relationships with the people we love can shape the stories we tell about ourselves.

With a poignant and bittersweet ending, “Big Fish” is a true masterpiece that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.

Batman Returns (1992)

Director Tim Burton’s second Batman film, Batman Returns, features Michael Keaton reprising his role as the caped crusader, with Danny DeVito and Michelle Pfeiffer joining the cast as the villains Penguin and Catwoman.

The film picks up with Gotham City under threat from the grotesque and devious Penguin, who plans to launch a smear campaign to become the city’s mayor.

Meanwhile, the mysterious Selina Kyle is pushed out of a high-rise window and resurrected as Catwoman, bent on exacting revenge on her corrupt employer and pursuing her own chaotic agenda.

Batman must navigate the political landscape of Gotham City while also battling the Penguin and Catwoman, who threaten to tear the city apart.

As the three clash, secrets are revealed and alliances are tested in this dark and twisted world.

The film is notable for its gothic, atmospheric style, as well as the striking performances of DeVito and Pfeiffer as the villains.

Keaton also delivers a strong performance as Batman, grappling with his own inner demons and moral dilemmas.

While the film received mixed reviews upon its release, it has since become a cult classic and is considered by many to be one of the most visually striking and thematically rich superhero films of all time.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)

“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” is a 2005 adaptation of the beloved Roald Dahl book of the same name.

Directed by Tim Burton and starring Johnny Depp as the eccentric candy maker Willy Wonka, the film tells the story of a young boy named Charlie Bucket who wins a coveted golden ticket to tour Wonka’s mysterious chocolate factory.

With the help of his Grandpa Joe and four other lucky children, Charlie embarks on a wild and wondrous journey through the fantastical factory, encountering a host of strange and colorful characters along the way.

But as the tour progresses, the children begin to meet unfortunate fates, leaving Charlie as the only one remaining to claim the ultimate prize – the chance to inherit Wonka’s candy empire.

Burton’s adaptation is a visually stunning and delightfully strange interpretation of Dahl’s classic tale.

Depp brings his own unique flair to the character of Wonka, playing him as an enigmatic and slightly off-kilter figure.

The film’s candy-colored visuals and imaginative set pieces create a magical and dreamlike atmosphere, while its quirky characters and dark humor give it a distinctly Burton-esque edge.

While some fans of the original book may take issue with certain changes and additions made to the story, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” stands on its own as a charming and entertaining family film that captures the whimsical spirit of Dahl’s work while also adding its own creative spin.

Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride (2005)

Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride is a stop-motion animated musical that tells the story of Victor Van Dort, a timid young man who accidentally marries a dead woman named Emily while practicing his wedding vows in the woods.

Emily, who was murdered by her fiancé, takes Victor to the Land of the Dead, where he must navigate a complex web of underworld politics and figure out how to return to the world of the living.

The film’s animation style is delightfully creepy and Gothic, and the musical numbers are catchy and engaging.

The voice cast includes Johnny Depp as Victor, Helena Bonham Carter as Emily, and Christopher Lee as the sinister Pastor Galswells.

The film’s themes of love, death, and acceptance are beautifully interwoven with Tim Burton’s signature brand of quirky humor and macabre visuals.

While the plot may seem a bit convoluted at times, Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride is an enchanting and visually stunning film that will appeal to fans of dark fantasy and Gothic romance.

The film’s macabre sensibility and heartfelt storytelling make it a perfect choice for Halloween, or any time of the year when you’re in the mood for a good, old-fashioned ghost story.

Beetlejuice (1988)

Beetlejuice is a quirky and offbeat fantasy comedy directed by Tim Burton.

The film follows the story of a newly deceased couple, Adam and Barbara Maitland (played by Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis), who find themselves stuck in their old home in Connecticut as ghosts.

When the new owners of their home, the Deetz family, move in, the Maitlands attempt to scare them off but their efforts fail.

Frustrated, the Maitlands enlist the help of a mischievous spirit named Beetlejuice (played by Michael Keaton) to help them remove the Deetzes from their house.

However, Beetlejuice is unpredictable and his chaotic energy ends up creating more problems than solutions.

As the plot progresses, the Deetz’s teenage daughter, Lydia (played by Winona Ryder), becomes increasingly fascinated with the supernatural and forms a bond with the Maitlands.

Together, they try to outsmart Beetlejuice and prevent him from wreaking havoc on the living world.

Beetlejuice is an eccentric and imaginative film that showcases Tim Burton’s signature visual style and dark humor.

The characters are quirky and memorable, especially Michael Keaton’s outrageous performance as the titular character.

The film’s offbeat humor and fantastical elements make it a unique and entertaining viewing experience.

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street is a dark and twisted musical thriller directed by Tim Burton, based on Stephen Sondheim’s stage musical of the same name.

The film stars Johnny Depp as the vengeful barber Sweeney Todd, who seeks revenge against the corrupt Judge Turpin (Alan Rickman) for the wrongful imprisonment of his wife and the loss of his daughter.

Set in 19th century London, the film tells the story of Todd, a skilled barber who returns to his old neighborhood after being wrongly accused of a crime he did not commit.

Todd reopens his old barbershop above Mrs. Lovett’s (Helena Bonham Carter) pie shop, and together they hatch a macabre plan to kill Turpin and other wealthy customers to use their bodies as meat for Mrs.

Lovett’s pies.

As Todd descends further into madness and revenge, he also discovers that his long-lost daughter Johanna (Jayne Wisener) is being kept captive by Turpin, adding more fuel to his vengeful fire.

Along the way, Todd crosses paths with Anthony (Jamie Campbell Bower), a young sailor who falls in love with Johanna and tries to help her escape.

The film is a dark and violent tale, but also features dark humor and catchy musical numbers.

Depp and Bonham Carter deliver strong performances and the film’s visual style is quintessential Tim Burton, with its gothic and macabre setting.

Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure (1985)

Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure is a comedy film directed by Tim Burton and starring Paul Reubens as the titular character, Pee-Wee Herman.

The film follows Pee-Wee on a journey to recover his stolen bicycle, which he cherishes more than anything in the world.

The film’s humor is quirky and absurd, much like Pee-Wee himself, and it delights in its oddball characters and situations.

Pee-Wee’s quest takes him across the country and introduces him to a variety of eccentric individuals, from a con artist named Large Marge to a group of escaped convicts.

The movie is filled with memorable moments, including Pee-Wee’s dance at a biker bar, his visit to a pet store filled with snakes, and his disastrous audition for a Hollywood film.

The film’s bright, colorful visuals and whimsical score also help to create a surreal and unforgettable atmosphere.

Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure is a film that celebrates the joys of childhood, with Pee-Wee embodying a childlike innocence and wonder.

It’s a hilarious, charming, and endearing movie that has become a cult classic over the years.

Burton’s unique directorial style perfectly complements Reubens’ quirky and energetic performance, resulting in a film that is both whimsical and timeless.

Frankenweenie (2012)

Frankenweenie is a stop-motion animated film directed by Tim Burton and based on his own 1984 short film of the same name.

The film tells the story of a young boy named Victor who uses his scientific genius to bring his beloved dog Sparky back to life after he is hit by a car.

As Victor tries to keep Sparky hidden from his parents and neighbors, a series of events lead to other pets being resurrected and causing chaos in their town.

The film combines classic horror movie elements with a heartwarming story of friendship and the bond between a boy and his dog.

The animation in Frankenweenie is visually stunning, with intricate character designs and a unique, Gothic-inspired style.

The film is also notable for its voice cast, which includes many actors who have previously worked with Burton, such as Winona Ryder and Catherine O’Hara

 

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