After enchanting audiences with "The Nightmare Before Christmas," Tim Burton brings another stop-motion animated spectacle, "Corpse Bride." In this story, Victor Van Dort, an inept young groom-to-be, can't make his way through his wedding rehearsal. Going outside to get his lines right, he accidentally winds up marrying the corpse of a murdered bride-to-be. The animation is spectacular, proving stop-motion can be good enough to compete with computer animation. Johnny Depp provides the voice of Victor, showing mild-mannered and nervous grace. Helena Bonham Carter is the voice of Emily, the Corpse Bride, giving the dead character lively emotion. One striking element of the movie is the color scheme. In the living world, there is no bright color, making a near-black and white appearance. The story is well-written, and the music is good. Overall, "Corpse Bride" must definitely be seen!
449 Reviews
Beautifully crafted
TheLittleSongbird23 November 2010
This is not my favourite Tim Burton movie by a long shot, but I did find myself enjoying it. The animation is absolutely amazing with the dark bold colours and inspired visual ideas. The music is good too, it adds very well to the atmosphere. The four songs are pretty decent, if nothing special. Remains of the Day was the one I liked best. The script is witty and deliciously dark in places, while the story is clever and fairly original, even if it drags slightly occasionally. The characters are wonderfully quirky and the voice work from the likes of Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter is top notch. All in all, a beautifully crafted film, if not quite Burton's finest hour. 8/10 Bethany Cox
Chopin's Grave
tedg6 January 2006
I liked this a lot, and a large part of the reason is that it is pure a Burton film as we are likely to find.
And when I say Burton, I mean that oddly successful collaboration between him and Elfman colored by commercial realities.
The big picture is that there are very few filmmakers with the skills and courage to be unique, to make movies that only they could. This goes beyond style into the nature of the soul.
If you do not have an interesting soul, you cannot be an artist. If you do not have the courage and ability to reveal that soul in some way to us, you cannot either. So hurrahs for the few in the world of film that do.
In a way, this film is a notion expanded around Ub Iwerks' (yes, that's a real name) "Skeleton Dance" done for Disney and quoted in a couple more hip Betty Boop cartoons. In another way, it is a simple date movie: boy gets girl, boy loses girl by misunderstanding, boy gets girl back and the thing ends in a wedding.
And also in a way, it is a love poem to his girl friend. I'm fascinated by these things, where a talented director (usually a man) can shape the image of the woman he loves. Films DO influence how we think of love, but this is more genuine and powerful than any of them, this real love that shines through purely cinematic means. Just think about casting the woman you love as a corpse! She is as alluring here as she has even been.
But beyond that is something that is more lasting, the business between Depp and Burton. Johnny is a fine actor, but many fine actors don't get the opportunity to explore new and unknown corners of darkness. He has and is better off for it. And so are we, though whenever this happens we end up with a new character template that inevitably becomes a stereotype. Depp already mines that stereotype in his Pirate movies.
But what concerns us here is how Burton/Elfman deepens what he has with Depp. He introduces the character as a pianist, and does so with a piano piece. That piece is a skillful blend of Chopin and pop, but more on the Chopin side. For many, Chopin is the most nakedly emotional yet dark soul they will encounter. No humor, only intimacy and passion.
So two clever things were done with this. The first is that the Depp persona (though an animated avatar here) was made deeper by reference to our deepest pianist. The second is that a few musical scenes and effects are set up, all of which reference the scene in some way. There's a sweet musical duet with Helena where they do fall in love. There may be few things more lovely than making love via music played to each other -- with each other.
Ted's Evaluation -- 3 of 3: Worth watching.
And when I say Burton, I mean that oddly successful collaboration between him and Elfman colored by commercial realities.
The big picture is that there are very few filmmakers with the skills and courage to be unique, to make movies that only they could. This goes beyond style into the nature of the soul.
If you do not have an interesting soul, you cannot be an artist. If you do not have the courage and ability to reveal that soul in some way to us, you cannot either. So hurrahs for the few in the world of film that do.
In a way, this film is a notion expanded around Ub Iwerks' (yes, that's a real name) "Skeleton Dance" done for Disney and quoted in a couple more hip Betty Boop cartoons. In another way, it is a simple date movie: boy gets girl, boy loses girl by misunderstanding, boy gets girl back and the thing ends in a wedding.
And also in a way, it is a love poem to his girl friend. I'm fascinated by these things, where a talented director (usually a man) can shape the image of the woman he loves. Films DO influence how we think of love, but this is more genuine and powerful than any of them, this real love that shines through purely cinematic means. Just think about casting the woman you love as a corpse! She is as alluring here as she has even been.
But beyond that is something that is more lasting, the business between Depp and Burton. Johnny is a fine actor, but many fine actors don't get the opportunity to explore new and unknown corners of darkness. He has and is better off for it. And so are we, though whenever this happens we end up with a new character template that inevitably becomes a stereotype. Depp already mines that stereotype in his Pirate movies.
But what concerns us here is how Burton/Elfman deepens what he has with Depp. He introduces the character as a pianist, and does so with a piano piece. That piece is a skillful blend of Chopin and pop, but more on the Chopin side. For many, Chopin is the most nakedly emotional yet dark soul they will encounter. No humor, only intimacy and passion.
So two clever things were done with this. The first is that the Depp persona (though an animated avatar here) was made deeper by reference to our deepest pianist. The second is that a few musical scenes and effects are set up, all of which reference the scene in some way. There's a sweet musical duet with Helena where they do fall in love. There may be few things more lovely than making love via music played to each other -- with each other.
Ted's Evaluation -- 3 of 3: Worth watching.
Here's the thing
jeslongo5 October 2005
People say that Corpse Bride was horribly boring, etc. HOWEVER, that is because they are comparing this nonstop motion picture with Nightmare Before Christmas. Those who were really upset after the movie, saying that 'it's definitely not Nightmare', you are absolutely right. It is not Nightmare. It's Corpse Bride, a completely different movie. Everything was comparison, Nightmare to Corpse Bride, and yes, I'll admit, I enjoyed Nightmare more. However, when going to see this movie, you cannot compare Corpse Bride to Nightmare because then yes, you will be upset. If they had done another Nightmare, they would have done it years ago. But this is a different movie with a beautiful plot when you think more closely about it. It's a very strong plot of love, betrayal, hate, death, etc and you see that very strongly if you listen closely to Danny Elfman's wonderful music, vocal and instrumental. Basically, go into the theaters with an open mind and enjoy and pay attention to the movie because it truly has strong, very strong, meanings. If truly watching and comprehending, at parts you cry and at others you smile. It's very clear that it is beautifully created and the actors match their parts well, but the storyline is simply beautiful. Do not think about Nightmare because that movie has been finished years ago, but enjoy Corpse Bride. I will not give anything away, so I leave my review at that. Enjoy Corpse Bride people! And for others who think I am Anti-Nightmare or something, I am seriously not. I loved and still love that movie, but just enjoy Corpse Bride without judgement until after the movie.
The Corpse Bride Is To Die For
naturenut1 October 2005
I think that The Corpse Bride is a beautiful story. It's about true love and kindness. Johnny Depp is a perfect Victor Van Dort and all the characters are played wonderfully. The animation is superb from facial expressions to a reflection in a tear drop. The ending is one worth waiting for. It's an excellent film that all families should see. I'd suggest not taking children younger than 8 or 9. They might not understand the story line that young, but they'll love the dancing skeletons and the fun songs! That was a surprise: all the songs they sang. If there's one song you must hear it has to be the skeleton one, but also the piano sequence is beautiful as well. Hope you enjoy the film as much as I did!
Good animation, but not one of Tim Burton's best
AlsExGal31 July 2015
I probably would have liked this movie more if I had not already seen - many times - "The Nightmare Before Christmas" which was a brilliant and original piece of work. This movie does share some of that movie's qualities - haunting soundtrack, bumbling authority figures, a tall thin protagonist who is searching for something, a heroine whose limbs easily detach, and a dear departed house pet. It also has some interesting ideas of its own - the living looking and acting as though they were already dead, versus the dead living it up, since they have no more worries and forever to look forward to with the prospect of all of their loved ones returning to them one by one. In fact, the only time the living seem happy in this film is when the dead return to the land of the living for a truly unique wedding and instead of menacing or haunting the living, there are tearful and happy reunions. However, the individual characters in this film are just not that interesting.
In short, even though all of the characters in "The Nightmare Before Christmas" are dead, they just seem more alive and motivated than the characters in this film. Also, this movie is darker than "Nightmare" and not as funny, so kids under 10 might find it too intense and probably not as interesting. Thus, although it is worthwhile viewing, I'm just afraid that Tim Burton set the bar too high with his previous animated film.
In short, even though all of the characters in "The Nightmare Before Christmas" are dead, they just seem more alive and motivated than the characters in this film. Also, this movie is darker than "Nightmare" and not as funny, so kids under 10 might find it too intense and probably not as interesting. Thus, although it is worthwhile viewing, I'm just afraid that Tim Burton set the bar too high with his previous animated film.
Tim Burton Does It Again!
shawn272424 September 2005
In Tim Burton's dazzling Corpse Bride, both Tim Burton fan freaks (I was raised on Edward Scissorhands and Beetlejuice) and new inductees alike will find something to like here. The exceptional stop-motion animation (which has seen an upgrade since 1993's classic Nightmare Before Christmas) joins with top-notch voice talent (Depp and Helena Bonham Carter stand out here) and typically good score/musical work from genius Danny Elfman to create a wonderful movie-going experience. Yes, this is a movie for anyone - in fact, I think teens and young adults will enjoy it more than younger kids with its dark at times bold humor and fast-paced banter (particulary in the clever songs). NO, it is not as good as Nightmare Before Xmas, but it may be that it would be hard for any film to match that picture. As usual, Tim Burton is always at the top of his game when he sticks to his favorite formula - exploring the darkness of the human soul with off-beat humor. Well-paced and a terrific ending wrap up this well-crafted package! 9/10 stars - it's awesome.
A typical Burton: Good visuals, but not much beneath the surface
danne-carlson4 October 2009
Tim Burton is a director who almost always makes enjoyable movies - you can watch them, enjoy them, laugh a bit here and a bit there - but eventually you will forget them. Tim Burton creates beautiful and magical worlds, and the problem is that he often just focus too much on the visuals.
In that sense, Corpse Bride is a typical Burton movie. The plot is a simple fairytale which works great for the moment, but it's not something that will stay in your head. Instead you'll want to watch it for the typical Gothic style of his movies, which works great. It's beautiful animated and Danny Elfman's music adds even more to the atmosphere. What's interesting here is that the movie show us two worlds - the world of the living and the land of the dead - and it's the world of the living that is the dark place, with a color scale of black, gray and white and inhabitants that are sad, evil and greedy. In the land of the dead corpses and skeletons sing together, it's colorful and mysteriously beautiful and almost everyone there seems to be having a good time, even though they're dead.
The voice actors are great; as many times before, Burton features Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter in his movies. They're both great. Other notable voice actors are Christopher Lee and Emily Watson.
In the end, it's a pretty funny movie during the time you watch it, but there's no depth in the story whatsoever. It's no movie that stays in your head. That's the reason that I can't rate it any higher, but if you get the chance to see it it's good entertainment for an hour and a half.
In that sense, Corpse Bride is a typical Burton movie. The plot is a simple fairytale which works great for the moment, but it's not something that will stay in your head. Instead you'll want to watch it for the typical Gothic style of his movies, which works great. It's beautiful animated and Danny Elfman's music adds even more to the atmosphere. What's interesting here is that the movie show us two worlds - the world of the living and the land of the dead - and it's the world of the living that is the dark place, with a color scale of black, gray and white and inhabitants that are sad, evil and greedy. In the land of the dead corpses and skeletons sing together, it's colorful and mysteriously beautiful and almost everyone there seems to be having a good time, even though they're dead.
The voice actors are great; as many times before, Burton features Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter in his movies. They're both great. Other notable voice actors are Christopher Lee and Emily Watson.
In the end, it's a pretty funny movie during the time you watch it, but there's no depth in the story whatsoever. It's no movie that stays in your head. That's the reason that I can't rate it any higher, but if you get the chance to see it it's good entertainment for an hour and a half.
Makes You Feel Better About Death
classic_sara27 September 2005
Tim Burton's Corpse Bride was one of the best animated movies I've ever seen. My mother and I are so happy that he made another beautiful and original animated film since The Nightmare Beofre Christmas because we waited for it for 10 years. I'm glad to say that the wait was worth it. The Corpse Bride is a wonderful emotional yet fun story with heart. We had a wonderful time watching it in the theaters and we can't wait to go see it again this weekend. The visuals are so amazing that you'd have to go see the movie with your own eyes for its impossible to explain there perfection. The characters all look stunning and there are so many wonderful new characters in this movie that will keep your eyes glued on the screen. The voices of Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter and Emily Watson are packed with fantastic emotion and acting. The score goes very well to the movie and the four songs that are performed sound wonderful. My favorites were "Remains of the Day" made me feel like dancing: it was such a jazzy fun song with the cool voice of Danny Elfmen. And my other favorite was "Tears To Shed" it broke my heart. Helena Bonham Carter sang that song with such heartbreak I loved it! The story is very entertaining and it has so much heart in it and Gothic like background. I loved the dialog some of my favorite lines were "Why Go Up There When People Are Dying To Get Down Here" and "Can A Heart Still Break Once It's Stopped Beating." But the most important thing is that this movie makes you feel less frightened about death. Death in this movie is a lot funner than living and the dead are always having a good time and partying that you feel like dying is not so bad. You should take anyone to see this movie if their paranoid about death it will soften their fears, Overall I strongly encourage anyone to go see this movie. I hope Tim Burten wins the Oscar for best animated movie this year. He truly deserves it! Thank you Mr. Burten for the Corpse Bride, Nightmare Before Christmas and years worth of your great films.
Dazzling Gothic animation!
The_Void21 November 2005
After the huge, and endearing, success of Nightmare Before Christmas - director Tim Burton has returned to Gothic animation, this time as director, with the superbly macabre 'Corpse Bride'! Personally, I prefer live action films; but when animation looks this good, I can hardly complain. Corpse Bride is rich with skeletons, spiders, maggots and a lush dark atmosphere - making this the most horrific 'kids' animated film I've ever seen. Many of the sequences really are quite macabre, which was surprising considering most kids films tend to have a 'nice' slant. One criticism I do have for Corpse Bride is that it's theme is wasted a little. The ideas behind the central plot are too complex, and the film never really explores any of them in great detail. Don't get me wrong, I like this film; but I also feel that a really, really great live action film could be made from a similar plot. Anyway, the basics of the story are that a young man forced into an arranged marriage accidentally finds himself married to a corpse after putting the wedding ring on her finger while rehearsing his vows. Oops!
The style of the film is absolutely wonderful. The lushly Gothic visuals are married to a distinctly dark picture, and this results in a great base for the macabre plot line. Many of the scenes look absolutely amazing - the title character's introduction scene being the best of them! Burton has gathered up an array of talent for the making of this film, including Johnny Depp, Emily Watson and Helena Bonham Carter in the leads; and horror icons Christopher Lee and Michael Gough delivering great supporting performances. Danny Elfman has created another great score, and while I don't usually say that I'm a fan of musical numbers in films like this; most of the songs here are actually quite entertaining. The character development is surprisingly good too, with the final outcomes of the leads being believable in spite of the fact that they're just lumps of clay. On the whole, while this film lacks the depth that the themes behind the story deserves; the animation is top quality, the film is lots of fun and there's enough dazzling sequences to ensure that any horror fan will enjoy this movie. Look out for the Peter Lorre-soundalike in the role of the maggot that lives behind the Corpse Bride's eye!
The style of the film is absolutely wonderful. The lushly Gothic visuals are married to a distinctly dark picture, and this results in a great base for the macabre plot line. Many of the scenes look absolutely amazing - the title character's introduction scene being the best of them! Burton has gathered up an array of talent for the making of this film, including Johnny Depp, Emily Watson and Helena Bonham Carter in the leads; and horror icons Christopher Lee and Michael Gough delivering great supporting performances. Danny Elfman has created another great score, and while I don't usually say that I'm a fan of musical numbers in films like this; most of the songs here are actually quite entertaining. The character development is surprisingly good too, with the final outcomes of the leads being believable in spite of the fact that they're just lumps of clay. On the whole, while this film lacks the depth that the themes behind the story deserves; the animation is top quality, the film is lots of fun and there's enough dazzling sequences to ensure that any horror fan will enjoy this movie. Look out for the Peter Lorre-soundalike in the role of the maggot that lives behind the Corpse Bride's eye!
Visually interesting world that Tim Burton created but...
jml198812 December 2019
The plot and characters I found lacking. Victor was incredibly annoying simply because he refused to ever speak up for himself and tell the truth on what was going on. Instead, he stuttered through the movie, all doe-eyed, while everyone else talked over him. I found it quite irksome and made the whole plot unnecessary.
Can't there ever be a animated movie that sustains a darkly beautiful tone?
Jacques9829 October 2008
I'm not a huge Tim Burton fanSweeny Todd was decent, but that's all I can really give himand I've never seen The Nightmare Before Christmas, so I can't compare this to it. If you're looking for an unbiased review, this is one of the few you'll get.
First of all, for an animated movie, this is one of the better ones I've seen. The themes running though are not overdone clichésunlike, say, Wall-Eand it was very nice to see women in an animated film fighting for the man, and not clichéd vice versa. The plot line itself is something similar to what you'd read in a kid's horror anthology, but it totally worked for this film's style. More importantly, the plot isn't something you've heard a thousand times, and I couldn't pick out any glaring clichés. In a way, The Corpse Bride is more mature of an effort story-wise than some of Burton's live-action, R-rated films because it has more imagination.
The signature Gothic style is done very well, and the animation is stellar to look at. I found the use of black-and-white in the real-world sequences a bit annoying and overdone, but to each his own. For someone who isn't a hardcore Burton fan, I can't say I really even noticed the music. Every now and then I thought it was pretty, but I doubt if you're not paying a lot of attention you'll even notice what everyone else is deeming as "beautiful and a masterpiece".
The main problems The Corpse Bride had: - Most of the characters were forgettable. They play out flat, as if the plot is just using them as pawns. I wouldn't mind this if the plot was AWESOME, but it just simply isn't, and the lack of emotional attachment to the characters really gets in the way of the overall effect.
6/10
First of all, for an animated movie, this is one of the better ones I've seen. The themes running though are not overdone clichésunlike, say, Wall-Eand it was very nice to see women in an animated film fighting for the man, and not clichéd vice versa. The plot line itself is something similar to what you'd read in a kid's horror anthology, but it totally worked for this film's style. More importantly, the plot isn't something you've heard a thousand times, and I couldn't pick out any glaring clichés. In a way, The Corpse Bride is more mature of an effort story-wise than some of Burton's live-action, R-rated films because it has more imagination.
The signature Gothic style is done very well, and the animation is stellar to look at. I found the use of black-and-white in the real-world sequences a bit annoying and overdone, but to each his own. For someone who isn't a hardcore Burton fan, I can't say I really even noticed the music. Every now and then I thought it was pretty, but I doubt if you're not paying a lot of attention you'll even notice what everyone else is deeming as "beautiful and a masterpiece".
The main problems The Corpse Bride had: - Most of the characters were forgettable. They play out flat, as if the plot is just using them as pawns. I wouldn't mind this if the plot was AWESOME, but it just simply isn't, and the lack of emotional attachment to the characters really gets in the way of the overall effect.
- No immersion. I understand this is a children's movie, and being an adult may have something to do with it, but as hard as I tried to love The Corpse Bride there was just something dull about it that I can't put my finger on. The world Burton creates is a near-perfect mix of childish macabre fantasy, and it is beautiful, but there is something missing. I assume that would be a darker plot line. The constant use of puns, also, takes away from the seriousness and beauty of the whole thing. Can't there ever be a animated, PG-rated movie that creates and sustains a darkly beautiful tone? Overall: Be sure to watch it on TV when the countless cartoon networks are playing it for Halloween. It is worth your time. It's just not the masterpiece I was hoping it would be.
6/10
This film is 100% spectacular!
a_joining_spark24 September 2005
This film is 100% spectacular, in my opinion. As we all know from the previews prior to the release, Johnny Depp's character must choose between his living and dead brides, essentially. To be perfectly honest, throughout most of the film, I was undecided on who I thought he'd choose and be able to work it out with. This is accounted for by wonderful story-fying and lovely screen writing! Danny Elfman is the musical genius still, not that I had any doubts.
Overall, throughout my viewing of the film, I was in awe, gales of laughter, near tears, or just plain excited! Tim Burton has done it again.
AMAZING FILM!
Overall, throughout my viewing of the film, I was in awe, gales of laughter, near tears, or just plain excited! Tim Burton has done it again.
AMAZING FILM!
Burton does it again
MrVibrating17 February 2006
We all know Burton love the Gothic, the dark and the comically twisted. He uses it in all his films, in one way or another. But he is also very diverse. Movies like "Ed Wood", "Mars Attacks!" and "Big Fish" are proof he can do other styles as well. But in this movie, Burton does what everybody expects him to do, and boy does he do it good.
The art style of this movie is perfect, flawless and as Burtonesque as anything can be. The use of stop-motion puppets instead of the more and more tiring CGI gives the movie a realistic feeling and makes it feel more artsy.
The story might be the movies weak link but I never thought about it during the movie. Besides, it's an old folk tale, so it's bound to be pretty basic.
Danny Elfman. That makes a few roll their eyes but Burton and Eflman is a good team, actually. The songs in this movie were not as good a those in "Nightmare before Christmas" but the suited the movie fine and they were never annoying.
The voice work is fine, Christopher Lee is great, and the characters are really characteristic and alive, ironically enough. Johnny Depp might be a little wasted since his character is pretty unremarkable, but his involvement has to do with his friendship of Burton and not as a poster name.
I recommend this movie to those who liked Tim Burton's earlier movies. You might not be surprised or totally blown away, but masterful handiwork like this is to be encouraged in these times of repetitive CGI children's movies. If you do not like Burton's very special style, then this movie is not for you, but for us who like a little originality in our lives, this is just right.
The art style of this movie is perfect, flawless and as Burtonesque as anything can be. The use of stop-motion puppets instead of the more and more tiring CGI gives the movie a realistic feeling and makes it feel more artsy.
The story might be the movies weak link but I never thought about it during the movie. Besides, it's an old folk tale, so it's bound to be pretty basic.
Danny Elfman. That makes a few roll their eyes but Burton and Eflman is a good team, actually. The songs in this movie were not as good a those in "Nightmare before Christmas" but the suited the movie fine and they were never annoying.
The voice work is fine, Christopher Lee is great, and the characters are really characteristic and alive, ironically enough. Johnny Depp might be a little wasted since his character is pretty unremarkable, but his involvement has to do with his friendship of Burton and not as a poster name.
I recommend this movie to those who liked Tim Burton's earlier movies. You might not be surprised or totally blown away, but masterful handiwork like this is to be encouraged in these times of repetitive CGI children's movies. If you do not like Burton's very special style, then this movie is not for you, but for us who like a little originality in our lives, this is just right.
Magic Music by Elfmann
Elvison27 September 2005
Corpse Bride works for me on so many levels but outstanding is the integration of music and words. The musical that blended the words and music to such a level that one could hardly imagine the film without the composer's contribution. This should be advertised as Danny's production as was the practice of Rogers and Hammerstein, or Irving Berlin or Cole Porter. We have a new art form here: the animated opera. Music is alive and well in the world of the dead. The music in the titles presents themes which continue into the film. An important part of the love story is the interest of the main characters and their methods of expression of emotion via piano music. The characters exist in an aura of sound. Imagine a Russian epic without the Lara Theme or Rick's place without Sam's piano. This film has achieved an identity that says this is music and this is what the movies has to say. All awards to those involved!
Charming Animated Musical
noralee28 September 2005
"Corpse Bride" is one of the best animated musicals since "Beauty and the Beast." Danny Elfman is co-creative force with director Tim Burton, as the delightful songs, music and piano playing courtships match the distinctive ensemble of characters.
There are no schmaltzy Disney ballads as the songs, sung by the character ensemble, help to reinforce plot and character points. While the songs aren't classics, they are hummable. With a few more additions, Elfman could turn it into a theatrical production.
Each character has delightfully exaggerated features (who didn't want to cut Johnny Depps's drooping forelock off during the Academy Awards?). The crowded Victoriana setting is as fraught with visual possibilities as "Howl's Moving Castle (Hauru no ugoku shiro)" and Hogwarts in Harry Potter. The color scape is almost all moon-lit black, gray and blue.
The film is charming and funny from the opening through its smidgen too long 76 minutes (though I didn't stay through the credits). The stream of visual jokes and one-liners may go over kids' heads, such as the head waiter. The tributes to old movies also come fast and furious, from the Harryhausen piano to "The Gone With the Wind" satire, the Heckle and Jeckle dream sequence from "Dumbo", "Barkis Bittern" seems to look a lot like an older "Gaston" from "Beauty" or maybe "Dudly Do-Right," and more. The Peter Lorre-imitating maggot was a bit much.
This isn't the first time we've seen dem bones dance around in animation but this is once again with a lot of feeling.
Christopher Lee voices the minister marvelously and Helena Bonham Carter enlivens the title character.
What's particularly lovely is that none of the characters are really nasty and the magical romantic triangle is resolved with no cruelty.
There are no schmaltzy Disney ballads as the songs, sung by the character ensemble, help to reinforce plot and character points. While the songs aren't classics, they are hummable. With a few more additions, Elfman could turn it into a theatrical production.
Each character has delightfully exaggerated features (who didn't want to cut Johnny Depps's drooping forelock off during the Academy Awards?). The crowded Victoriana setting is as fraught with visual possibilities as "Howl's Moving Castle (Hauru no ugoku shiro)" and Hogwarts in Harry Potter. The color scape is almost all moon-lit black, gray and blue.
The film is charming and funny from the opening through its smidgen too long 76 minutes (though I didn't stay through the credits). The stream of visual jokes and one-liners may go over kids' heads, such as the head waiter. The tributes to old movies also come fast and furious, from the Harryhausen piano to "The Gone With the Wind" satire, the Heckle and Jeckle dream sequence from "Dumbo", "Barkis Bittern" seems to look a lot like an older "Gaston" from "Beauty" or maybe "Dudly Do-Right," and more. The Peter Lorre-imitating maggot was a bit much.
This isn't the first time we've seen dem bones dance around in animation but this is once again with a lot of feeling.
Christopher Lee voices the minister marvelously and Helena Bonham Carter enlivens the title character.
What's particularly lovely is that none of the characters are really nasty and the magical romantic triangle is resolved with no cruelty.
Still Smiling at Burton's Talent...
kmlaing3 September 2005
I gotta tell you.Animation films these days are just getting better and better.Tim Burton's directing and vision succeeds once again.For almost the whole movie,I could tell everyone in the theater was enjoying it.
Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter were fabulous voices,the music and songs were just right for the mood,and the story was actually quite different from The Nightmare before Christmas.Altogether it made an enjoyable,clever and funny movie,that I think you will want to see over and over again.Take your friends.Family or relatives to see this classic movie.Trust me you will NOT be disappointed.Or at least I wasn't disappointed
Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter were fabulous voices,the music and songs were just right for the mood,and the story was actually quite different from The Nightmare before Christmas.Altogether it made an enjoyable,clever and funny movie,that I think you will want to see over and over again.Take your friends.Family or relatives to see this classic movie.Trust me you will NOT be disappointed.Or at least I wasn't disappointed
An interesting and relevant, if not perplexing, morality tale
evilmatt-324 September 2005
Tim Burton's Corpse Bride is by no means a bad movie- indeed, it is much better than most schlock these days- but it is part of a growing category of films with a very specific problem. It does not seem to have a specific audience in mind, or if it does, it is not approaching that audience in the proper way.
Most people will see this film because it is to all appearances the follow-up to The Nightmare Before Christmas. Visually, this is true- Corpse Bride looks and feels very similar to the older film, although computer animation makes this one look even better.
However, whereas The Nightmare Before Christmas maintained a jovial, family friendly theme and plot (complete with misunderstood heroes and dastardly villains), Corpse Bride gives us a quiet little story about three young adults who find themselves in an impossible moral situation. Promises are made which must be kept, and out of three people, one must inevitably end up heartbroken. The three central characters are all exceedingly likable- although one may believe Emily is to be the villain of the piece, she consistently demonstrates as much humanity as anyone.
Ultimately, the film is about one very difficult moral choice that has to be made by one of the characters. The choice is made and the movie ends, but unless you're paying really close attention, it's difficult to understand why the characters act as they do, and why the film has the ending that it does. While not giving anything away, I'll say that in this sense, the third act of the film presents a very mature dilemma that children (and many adults) are not going to appreciate.
Of course, the frustrating thing about this movie is that so much time is spent on song and dance numbers that the moral and romantic elements never really get fleshed out. As such the film (like Victor) is stuck between two worlds, and never really makes up its mind where it wants to be. On this point, then, it fails.
It's probably still worth watching, although Tim Burton has done much better in the past.
Most people will see this film because it is to all appearances the follow-up to The Nightmare Before Christmas. Visually, this is true- Corpse Bride looks and feels very similar to the older film, although computer animation makes this one look even better.
However, whereas The Nightmare Before Christmas maintained a jovial, family friendly theme and plot (complete with misunderstood heroes and dastardly villains), Corpse Bride gives us a quiet little story about three young adults who find themselves in an impossible moral situation. Promises are made which must be kept, and out of three people, one must inevitably end up heartbroken. The three central characters are all exceedingly likable- although one may believe Emily is to be the villain of the piece, she consistently demonstrates as much humanity as anyone.
Ultimately, the film is about one very difficult moral choice that has to be made by one of the characters. The choice is made and the movie ends, but unless you're paying really close attention, it's difficult to understand why the characters act as they do, and why the film has the ending that it does. While not giving anything away, I'll say that in this sense, the third act of the film presents a very mature dilemma that children (and many adults) are not going to appreciate.
Of course, the frustrating thing about this movie is that so much time is spent on song and dance numbers that the moral and romantic elements never really get fleshed out. As such the film (like Victor) is stuck between two worlds, and never really makes up its mind where it wants to be. On this point, then, it fails.
It's probably still worth watching, although Tim Burton has done much better in the past.
A marriage made in the afterlife
MDC_Catalyst27 December 2005
By Keki Tognetti and Manny Castro
Tim Burton fans watch out! His new film 'The Corpse Bride' came out in theaters on Sept. 23rd, and it is fantastic. Burton comes through again for all of his fans, delivering a comical, heart wrenching, and an emotional roller coaster that you will want to ride again and again.
For those new to Burton's whimsical style, the film is very appealing and enjoyable for everyone in the family, though not highly recommended for those whose preference in movies doesn't involve characters singing rimes. The story takes place in a small town during what might seem to be late-19th century Eastern Europe, where everything and everyone is as boring and life-less as a stone grave.
The main character Victor, voiced by the talented Johnny Depp, is troubled, extremely nervous and uncertain about his upcoming marriage to Victoria played by Emily Watson.
Romance seemed to spark between the soon to be married couple, but just when all seemed well poor Victor takes a turn for the worse and forgets his vows, bringing shame, and dishonor to his family.
In panic Victor flees the wedding rehearsal and accidentally marries The Corpse Bride. He then finds himself being taken to the world of the dead by Emily, played by Helena Bonham Carter who is now his new lovely wife.
There she shows him a world he's never seen. While the life of the living is dull, monochromatic, and vivid less the world of the dead is boiling with song, color, and excitement.
Tim Burton's crusade to rescue the dying art form of stop-motion animation is seen in other Burton stop-motion projects (Vincent (1982), The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993), and the 1996 release of James and the Giant Peach) Corpse Bride is a celebration of its art form. Anyone familiar with Burton's career knows that he is a true artist and each film is a reflection of his life. The film is very beautiful.
You can either take your children, spouse or a date. The film is very romantic yet very energetic and full of comedy and eye-popping scenes. It has something for everyone. I know the question on everyone's mind, is it better than Nightmare? The answer is no, but so what? It is a great film accompanied by amazing visuals and cool music by Danny Elfman.
This film is one of his best works yet, though its a tearjerker at the end, it leaves you wanting more once you reach it. The movie runs for 77 minutes, no fans will be disappointed on the film itself; it is gorgeous. The only real disappointment is how short the film runs, but what more can you expect from stop-motion? It's simply a must see.
Tim Burton fans watch out! His new film 'The Corpse Bride' came out in theaters on Sept. 23rd, and it is fantastic. Burton comes through again for all of his fans, delivering a comical, heart wrenching, and an emotional roller coaster that you will want to ride again and again.
For those new to Burton's whimsical style, the film is very appealing and enjoyable for everyone in the family, though not highly recommended for those whose preference in movies doesn't involve characters singing rimes. The story takes place in a small town during what might seem to be late-19th century Eastern Europe, where everything and everyone is as boring and life-less as a stone grave.
The main character Victor, voiced by the talented Johnny Depp, is troubled, extremely nervous and uncertain about his upcoming marriage to Victoria played by Emily Watson.
Romance seemed to spark between the soon to be married couple, but just when all seemed well poor Victor takes a turn for the worse and forgets his vows, bringing shame, and dishonor to his family.
In panic Victor flees the wedding rehearsal and accidentally marries The Corpse Bride. He then finds himself being taken to the world of the dead by Emily, played by Helena Bonham Carter who is now his new lovely wife.
There she shows him a world he's never seen. While the life of the living is dull, monochromatic, and vivid less the world of the dead is boiling with song, color, and excitement.
Tim Burton's crusade to rescue the dying art form of stop-motion animation is seen in other Burton stop-motion projects (Vincent (1982), The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993), and the 1996 release of James and the Giant Peach) Corpse Bride is a celebration of its art form. Anyone familiar with Burton's career knows that he is a true artist and each film is a reflection of his life. The film is very beautiful.
You can either take your children, spouse or a date. The film is very romantic yet very energetic and full of comedy and eye-popping scenes. It has something for everyone. I know the question on everyone's mind, is it better than Nightmare? The answer is no, but so what? It is a great film accompanied by amazing visuals and cool music by Danny Elfman.
This film is one of his best works yet, though its a tearjerker at the end, it leaves you wanting more once you reach it. The movie runs for 77 minutes, no fans will be disappointed on the film itself; it is gorgeous. The only real disappointment is how short the film runs, but what more can you expect from stop-motion? It's simply a must see.
"Play dead. " - Victor (to his skeleton dog.)
MichaelMargetis24 September 2005
On Friday, I went into the movie theater showing 'The Corpse Bride' with kind of mixed feelings. Whenever a Tim Burton film comes out you know it's going to be original and something different, but that doesn't always mean it is going to be good. Since he had just released his masterful remake to the beloved children's novel 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory', 'The Corpse Bride' seemed a little rushed and I wasn't sure of how good it was going to be. Well, I can tell you, I was very pleased with the film. 'The Corpse Bride' isn't nearly as good as Burton's classic 'The Nightmare Before Christmas' but it was a very entertaining, inventive and charming animated feature. It was also much creepier then 'Nightmare Before Christmas'.
The story follows the solemn Victor (voiced by Johnny Depp) who comes from a middle-class family. His parents are excited because he is being married off to the daughter of a wealthy and prosperous family (who secretly have ran out of money.) Victor is nervous about the marriage and like a klutz screws up at the rehearsal dinner. Filled with shame, Victor runs off to be alone in the creepy woods of the town. He practices his vows, and accidentally places the wedding ring on a narrow tree branch with turns out to be the remains of a dead girl (voiced by Helena Bonham Carter). Now, Victor's world is turned upside town since he is now married to one of the deceased who secretly live below the living.
'The Corpse Bride' is one hell of an eerie tale that will no doubt enthrall most adults, but may scare the crap out of little kids. Tim Burton does a good job with this film (it's not one of his best, but isn't one of his worst films by a long-shot). The movie borrows heavily from 'Nightmare Before Christmas' but it is still original in some aspects. Johnny Depp is perfectly cast (or voiced) in the lead along with Helena Bonham Carter. The film also features voice-overs from Albert Finney, Emily Watson, Tracy Ullman, Richard E. Grant and Christopher Lee as the town's reverend.
I recommend 'Corpse Bride' to those who would like to see something a tad different, and don't mind the strangeness of the film. It's better than a lot of the swine that's in theaters currently. Grade: B (screened at AMC Deer Valley 30, Phoenix, Arizona, 9/23/05)
my ratings guide - A+ (absolutley flawless); A (a masterpiece, near-perfect); A- (excellent); B+ (great); B (very good); B- (good); C+ (a mixed bag); C (average); C- (disappointing); D+ (bad); D (very bad); D- (absolutley horrendous); F (not one redeeming quality in this hunk of Hollywood feces).
The story follows the solemn Victor (voiced by Johnny Depp) who comes from a middle-class family. His parents are excited because he is being married off to the daughter of a wealthy and prosperous family (who secretly have ran out of money.) Victor is nervous about the marriage and like a klutz screws up at the rehearsal dinner. Filled with shame, Victor runs off to be alone in the creepy woods of the town. He practices his vows, and accidentally places the wedding ring on a narrow tree branch with turns out to be the remains of a dead girl (voiced by Helena Bonham Carter). Now, Victor's world is turned upside town since he is now married to one of the deceased who secretly live below the living.
'The Corpse Bride' is one hell of an eerie tale that will no doubt enthrall most adults, but may scare the crap out of little kids. Tim Burton does a good job with this film (it's not one of his best, but isn't one of his worst films by a long-shot). The movie borrows heavily from 'Nightmare Before Christmas' but it is still original in some aspects. Johnny Depp is perfectly cast (or voiced) in the lead along with Helena Bonham Carter. The film also features voice-overs from Albert Finney, Emily Watson, Tracy Ullman, Richard E. Grant and Christopher Lee as the town's reverend.
I recommend 'Corpse Bride' to those who would like to see something a tad different, and don't mind the strangeness of the film. It's better than a lot of the swine that's in theaters currently. Grade: B (screened at AMC Deer Valley 30, Phoenix, Arizona, 9/23/05)
my ratings guide - A+ (absolutley flawless); A (a masterpiece, near-perfect); A- (excellent); B+ (great); B (very good); B- (good); C+ (a mixed bag); C (average); C- (disappointing); D+ (bad); D (very bad); D- (absolutley horrendous); F (not one redeeming quality in this hunk of Hollywood feces).
Another beautiful Tim Burton movie
trickyhappyelf11 September 2005
i just saw this movie at the Toronto film festival. Tim Burton, as with most of his movies, makes the setting and visuals the most important part. And what a beautiful movie it was, the animation was astounding. You could tell that each frame was tirelessly worked on in order to make each little piece have its own distinct look. The plot is unimportant, and cliché, but that doesn't matter. This movie shouldn't be watched for the storyline. The voice acting was very convincing, especially the lead, Johnny Depp, who does a great job as the shy, clumsy Victor. The only character i really didn't think was needed was the worm, who was just included just for some childish comedic relief, which took away from the dark mood of the picture. Though not as enjoyable as "Nightmare Before Christmas" it still was a very good animated movie. 8.5/10
Burton's best animated feature
Leofwine_draca14 May 2016
I'm no big fan of these quirky, Gothic stop-motion animation type films, but I have to say that CORPSE BRIDE is a darn sight more entertaining than that overblown '90s film, THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE Christmas. Tight pacing, plentiful action, some fun songs and excellent attention to technical detail make this the superior film in every way, and I can fully appreciate the fairy tale storyline of a man who accidentally finds himself married to a dead woman.
The film utilises some fine voice talent, which I admit was the reason I chose it in the first place. Helena Bonham Carter's vocal chords are put to excellent use as she plays the alluring, surprisingly affecting titular bride, with Johnny Depp almost unnoticeable opposite her. The pairing works so well that Carter and Depp were later also put to good use in Burton's excellent musical version of Sweeney Todd. Emily Watson, Paul Whitehouse, Joanna Lumley, Richard E. Grant and Albert Finney all provide solid support, and there are also a couple of made-to-measure parts for old-timers Christopher Lee and Michael Gough, who are both excellent.
The animation is colourful and action-packed and unsurprisingly Burton comes up with plenty of ghoulish creations, could they get away with a live action version of this? I think not! All in all a witty, dark fun little film.
The film utilises some fine voice talent, which I admit was the reason I chose it in the first place. Helena Bonham Carter's vocal chords are put to excellent use as she plays the alluring, surprisingly affecting titular bride, with Johnny Depp almost unnoticeable opposite her. The pairing works so well that Carter and Depp were later also put to good use in Burton's excellent musical version of Sweeney Todd. Emily Watson, Paul Whitehouse, Joanna Lumley, Richard E. Grant and Albert Finney all provide solid support, and there are also a couple of made-to-measure parts for old-timers Christopher Lee and Michael Gough, who are both excellent.
The animation is colourful and action-packed and unsurprisingly Burton comes up with plenty of ghoulish creations, could they get away with a live action version of this? I think not! All in all a witty, dark fun little film.
Exquisite (haven't seen that word in a while)
Cel_Stacker12 October 2005
Burton takes another playful swipe at his stop-motion heroes with this nicely-done treat.
Victor Van Dort (Johnny Depp) is a milquetoast. A bumbling, unlucky dreamer. To make things worse, his parents (multi-talented Paul Whitehouse and Tracey Ullman) are forcing him into the classic "arranged marriage", which is more like a contract with the cash-strapped but aristocratic Everglots (Albert Finney & Joanna Lumley). Things turn around, however, when he meets his intended, Victoria Everglot (Emily Watson) who is actually very attractive, inside and out.
The ceremony is as arranged as the marriage, unfortunately, and the frustrated minister (Christopher Lee) demands that Victor take time out to PRACTICE HIS VOWS. This too, is awkward, as in the midst of his rehearsal, Victor places a ring upon a corpse's poking finger (just the place to rehearse a wedding, a cemetery) thus rousing the title character (Helena Bonham Carter), who leads Victor on a voyage through life and death and an unwitting quest to figure out what he really wants.
Exquisite, yes, and enjoyable, but not without a few flaws. Most of the songs, while well written, feel out of place, and potentially powerful villain, Barkis Bittern (post-Doctor Who Richard E. Grant) doesn't seem to be allowed to do enough. But the good far outweighs the bad--moviegoers who get past the title will find a light-hearted romp that is rife with parody and spoof, from the Harryhausen brand piano to the diminutive character Bonesapart (played by the diminutive Deep Roy). A cameo by Jack Skellington would have been cool (O.K., Disney) but Danny Elfman's Bonejangles does pull off an eye-popping number. Even the unsettling, Peter-Lorre-channeling maggot residing in the Bride's skull threatens to steal the show. Good cast (with many Burton stalwarts, incidentally), with the philosophy that less is more make for a good time.
Like it or not, it is well-worth noting that this film delivers many firsts to film-making, including new-style digital camera-work on refined stop-motion. To animators and film students, this offering comes highly recommended.
Victor Van Dort (Johnny Depp) is a milquetoast. A bumbling, unlucky dreamer. To make things worse, his parents (multi-talented Paul Whitehouse and Tracey Ullman) are forcing him into the classic "arranged marriage", which is more like a contract with the cash-strapped but aristocratic Everglots (Albert Finney & Joanna Lumley). Things turn around, however, when he meets his intended, Victoria Everglot (Emily Watson) who is actually very attractive, inside and out.
The ceremony is as arranged as the marriage, unfortunately, and the frustrated minister (Christopher Lee) demands that Victor take time out to PRACTICE HIS VOWS. This too, is awkward, as in the midst of his rehearsal, Victor places a ring upon a corpse's poking finger (just the place to rehearse a wedding, a cemetery) thus rousing the title character (Helena Bonham Carter), who leads Victor on a voyage through life and death and an unwitting quest to figure out what he really wants.
Exquisite, yes, and enjoyable, but not without a few flaws. Most of the songs, while well written, feel out of place, and potentially powerful villain, Barkis Bittern (post-Doctor Who Richard E. Grant) doesn't seem to be allowed to do enough. But the good far outweighs the bad--moviegoers who get past the title will find a light-hearted romp that is rife with parody and spoof, from the Harryhausen brand piano to the diminutive character Bonesapart (played by the diminutive Deep Roy). A cameo by Jack Skellington would have been cool (O.K., Disney) but Danny Elfman's Bonejangles does pull off an eye-popping number. Even the unsettling, Peter-Lorre-channeling maggot residing in the Bride's skull threatens to steal the show. Good cast (with many Burton stalwarts, incidentally), with the philosophy that less is more make for a good time.
Like it or not, it is well-worth noting that this film delivers many firsts to film-making, including new-style digital camera-work on refined stop-motion. To animators and film students, this offering comes highly recommended.
Hey! Give me a listen, you corpses of cheer/ Least those of you who still got an ear/ I'll tell you a story make a skeleton cry/ Of our own jubiliciously lovely corpse bride!
Galina_movie_fan24 March 2007
Tim Burton's Corpse Bride (2005) is a stop-motion-animated Romance as well as Comedy / Family / Fantasy / Musical which takes place in two parallel worlds, in the world of living and in the world of dead. It starts in the Victorian England and tells of a young man, Victor who is to marry a girl he never met, named Victoria (Victor and Victoria in the Victorian England). Victor and Victoria fell in love from the first sight but unknown for him, Victor finds himself married to Emily, a mysterious Corpse bride, and taken to the world of dead which in Burton's movie is much more colorful, friendlier, and jollier than the world of living
With the running time only 76 minutes, "Corpse Bride" simply does not have time to become boring. It is funny, charming, and refreshingly effective in its use of the stop-motion animation in the age of the advanced computer technology. Some characters are absolutely hilarious, for example, a cute green maggot that lives in Emily's skull and pops out from her eye with the smart remarks and comments. The songs are nice; especially the one that tells the horrific story of the Corpse Bride in such colorful way that you would not stop smiling. Danny Elfman, the film's composer provided voice for Bonejangles, the singer. I also noticed the use of the elegant cutout-style animation with the hypnotizing backgrounds very much in the style of "Die Abenteuer des Prinzen Achmed" (1926) directed by Lotte Reiniger, which is the oldest surviving animated feature film.
With the running time only 76 minutes, "Corpse Bride" simply does not have time to become boring. It is funny, charming, and refreshingly effective in its use of the stop-motion animation in the age of the advanced computer technology. Some characters are absolutely hilarious, for example, a cute green maggot that lives in Emily's skull and pops out from her eye with the smart remarks and comments. The songs are nice; especially the one that tells the horrific story of the Corpse Bride in such colorful way that you would not stop smiling. Danny Elfman, the film's composer provided voice for Bonejangles, the singer. I also noticed the use of the elegant cutout-style animation with the hypnotizing backgrounds very much in the style of "Die Abenteuer des Prinzen Achmed" (1926) directed by Lotte Reiniger, which is the oldest surviving animated feature film.
Horribly Under-Appreciated
baileycrawly11 August 2020
Corpse Bride gets slammed a lot because it's not in the same vein as the bright, kid-friendly, constantly moving Nightmare Before Christmas. Sure, they were both created by Tim Burton, they both have a similar look and they're both stop-motion, but that doesn't mean that Corpse Bride is going to be the exact same movie done a second time. This movie is the result of Tim exploring other venues within his dark imagination, and the final result of this one is quite satisfactory.
This film, while technically a kid's movie (and a musical), is a lot darker, in virtually every way possible. Still, just like with Nightmare, the sets for this film are exquisitely detailed, immaculately constructed with love and attention put into every minute detail. There isn't a single moment of the film that features something that doesn't look like it's right where it needs to be, and that's a testament to the brilliance of Tim and his team. The stop-motion moves with such fluidity that it's easy to lose yourself in the action of the film. Even the fast-moving scenes are handled with such careful precision and professionalism that this film is truly a joy to watch.
Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter work fantastically off each other in this film; the former playing Victor Van Dort, a lovable yet clumsy young man forced into an arranged marriage with Victoria Everglot (Emily Watson), only to wind up unwittingly proposing to a Corpse Bride (HBC).
It's a fun, upbeat - albeit creepy for younger viewers - trip to the underworld, a ticket to experience the world of the dead, complimented perfectly with the music of Oingo Boingo's Danny Elfman, who also did the music on Nightmare. Yet again, his score is hauntingly beautiful, creating the exact emotions within the viewer that Tim intends with each scene. The songs he's crafted are irresistibly catchy and, when they need to be, slower, heart-felt and moving.
This is a movie with a lot of heart, which is a little bit weird to consider for anyone who may not be accustomed to the world of Tim Burton.
While it's not a perfect movie, and it can't be viewed on the same level as The Nightmare Before Christmas, this movie stands perfectly well on its own and is a must-see for Burton fans.
This film, while technically a kid's movie (and a musical), is a lot darker, in virtually every way possible. Still, just like with Nightmare, the sets for this film are exquisitely detailed, immaculately constructed with love and attention put into every minute detail. There isn't a single moment of the film that features something that doesn't look like it's right where it needs to be, and that's a testament to the brilliance of Tim and his team. The stop-motion moves with such fluidity that it's easy to lose yourself in the action of the film. Even the fast-moving scenes are handled with such careful precision and professionalism that this film is truly a joy to watch.
Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter work fantastically off each other in this film; the former playing Victor Van Dort, a lovable yet clumsy young man forced into an arranged marriage with Victoria Everglot (Emily Watson), only to wind up unwittingly proposing to a Corpse Bride (HBC).
It's a fun, upbeat - albeit creepy for younger viewers - trip to the underworld, a ticket to experience the world of the dead, complimented perfectly with the music of Oingo Boingo's Danny Elfman, who also did the music on Nightmare. Yet again, his score is hauntingly beautiful, creating the exact emotions within the viewer that Tim intends with each scene. The songs he's crafted are irresistibly catchy and, when they need to be, slower, heart-felt and moving.
This is a movie with a lot of heart, which is a little bit weird to consider for anyone who may not be accustomed to the world of Tim Burton.
While it's not a perfect movie, and it can't be viewed on the same level as The Nightmare Before Christmas, this movie stands perfectly well on its own and is a must-see for Burton fans.
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