Big Fish (2003) - Film directed by Tim Burton

* * * * 1/2

This film is basically unrecognisable as a Tim Burton film because it doesn't have the usual blue filter and the characters aren't oddly gothic and because of this it has been called the Tim Burton film for people who don't like Tim Burton. I don't think that this is justified because there are so many of his normal traits in Big Fish. The quirky characters, humour, magical realism and the presence of Helena Bonham Carter all feature in this and are reminiscent of others Burton films. The plot is about an old man who is dying remembering his youth and his discovery of the world and himself through fairly magical circumstances.

There are two stories running at once, one about a dying father reconnecting with his son and then the father's life story. The first arch is slightly boring although crucial to the overall message of the film. As someone who likes fantasy real life appears very mundane and therefore these bits just seem slow and ordinary but that is how they are meant to be because the father's life and imagination is supposed to be the interesting part of this film.

The father's life is fascinating and enjoyable, he is played by two great actors, Ewan McGregor as young and Albert Finney as old. Juxtaposed against the reality of the other story means that the past world appears much brighter and more interesting. The magical moments that occur and help him in his life are carefully chosen and presented in a way that often seems to suggest they could be real. Some things are obviously exaggeration, such as a werewolf and a witch, but then others could be true, such as a hidden town and giant.

The film is difficult to summarise because it is weird and wonderful but also because it has some undefinable qualities. Sometimes you watch a film and you just like it with no definitive reasons but just a certainty that it's good. It is a well made film with a great cast, interesting story and a perfect touch of fantasy to satisfy those, like me, who need it but not overwhelm the people who prefer people driven stories. It is a Burton film for anyone who likes films.