Today's review is Frankenweenie.
Directed by Tim Burton.
Written by John August.
Based on a screenplay by Leonard Ripps.
Screen Story by Tim Burton.
Review #182
MPAA Rating: PG for thematic elements, scary images and action.
Run Time: 87 min
Cast
Catherine O'Hara...Mrs. Frankenstein / Weird Girl / Gym Teacher (voice)
Martin Short...Mr. Frankenstein / Mr. Burgemeister / Nassor (voice)
Martin Landau...Mr. Rzykruski (voice)
Winona Ryder...Elsa Van Helsing (voice)
Charlie Tahan...Victor Frankenstein (voice)
Atticus Shaffer...Edgar 'E' Gore (voice)
Robert Capron...Bob (voice)
Conchata Ferrell...Bob's Mom (voice)
James Hiroyuki Liao...Toshiaki (voice)
Tom Kenny...New Holland Townsfolk (voice)
Tim Burton as we all know has a quirky, kooky personality. That same personality comes through in every film he's directed. He also has a unique visual style that is an acquired taste to say the least. You either like it or you don't. There is no middle ground with him. I myself am on the fence with him. I like his stuff at times. Then I don't. He makes it easy that way. Mostly because his films can on occasion be mind numbingly boring. Even his Batman films dragged at points. That has become the biggest factor in me not being completely on board the Burton bandwagon. So with this latest entry to his catalog. Mr. Burton finds himself perhaps needing a vacation to recharge his batteries.
Because the creativity is falling fast.
Plot
Young Victor conducts a science experiment to bring his beloved dog Sparky back to life, only to face unintended, sometimes monstrous, consequences.
In traditional Tim Burton fashion. He subscribes to the S.O.S method. This film already has that going for it because it's stop motion. Those films are already stylish so it's vital to surround that style with a balanced story with rich characters. Frankenweenie fails on both counts. The story which was based on Burton's first film he made as a kid has a very choppy story. The main plot point is there along with a very good life message. The rest in between is just all over the place and it hurts the overall structure. The only worthwhile aspect of the story is that it cleverly homages Frankenstein in every memorable way. From reviving the dog to the Igor type character to the angry torch weilding mob chasing after the "monster". I don't understand why Burton didn't just write the script himself. It's his idea to begin with. He knows the material better than anyone else.
It might have made a difference.
The character designs were also very creepy. No surprise there....It's Tim Burton. Be mindful of that when bringing the little ones. Their voices are kiddie sounding but their look is so weird and out there that it's impossible to feel for any of them. This is a direct result of the lack of story/character depth. The film gives you glimpses of what you expect to see from the characters then it just goes away. Again this is typical of Tim Burton. This is why I can't be a full on fan of his. He's so concerned with being "different" that he sacrifices important elements like plot/character development.
Frankenweenie was just another Burton film that misses the mark in a lot of ways. The time for style is over. Try making a movie instead.
On the 5 star scale. Frankenweenie gets 1 star. With a "Netflix It!" recommendation.
That's a wrap for today. Up next is Argo.
Until Next Episode...."I'll Save You A Seat!"
"D"
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