Burton’s FISH tale nets a big reaction
By Kate H.
Big Fish
Tim Burton
2003
Tim Burton's "Big Fish" 2003
The collection of bizarre yet deeply imaginative tales that make-up the popular 2003 film Big Fish is sure to entertain moviegoers for years to come.
The film was based on Daniel Wallace’s novel of the same name. It stars the independent and disconnected Will Bloom (Billy Crudup), who is spending precious time with his dying Father Ed (Albert Finney). Their relationship has been a rocky one, and Will chooses to blame his Father’s incessant story telling, that make him the hit of any party but a pariah to his own family. The movie takes us through those stories, skillfully blending the ordinary with wild fantasies. From tales of witches and werewolves, to a poetic love story and the horrors of war, Ed finally shares with his son not only the complete story of his fantastic life, but also the trust and love that has been missing in their fragmented relationship.
While Finney is truly memorable in his role as the aged yet lively Ed Bloom, it’s Ewan McGregor as his younger self, who truly steals the show. He has a boyish charm and devilish naivety that brings to mind a mid 20th century Tom Sawyer. Jessica Lange plays an almost inconceivably beautiful and mysterious Sandra, who is Ed’s true love. Even Crudup’s character, although less developed than many of the other leads in the story, will have won you over for sure by the time the credits role.
The relatively unlikely director of this movie is Tim Burton. Although a few of his signature marks can be seen in the design of the film, with its gothic-themed costumes and predictable casting, in general it stands alone as one of his greatest creative masterpieces yet. His off-the-wall style is tangible in some of the spookier stories, but it’s the heartwarming, real-life moments of interaction between an estranged Father and son that will have you wondering what sort of thing’s have been on Burton’s mind of late. I’d wager that the death of his Father in the year 2000 was a factor.
The music which accompanies this movie is a rather chaotic combination of circus-themed jazz and 50’s du-op. It sets the stage well for the various time periods, which are covered in the film. Danny Elfman, an American composer who has often worked with Burton, composed many of the original scores. The soundtrack was nominated for a Golden Globe and an Academy Award.
If you haven’t seen Big Fish yet, it’s time. Although it can be infuriating to have to separate the exaggerated real from the sticky-sweet imaginary, this story is a reminder that we all need to enjoy life to it’s fullest. This is the kind of movie that takes a while to digest, and will have you questioning the reality of your own fantastic, unbelievable life.
Kate H. is a Grade 12 student and a movie enthusiast.
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