CORPSE BRIDE REVIEW

*MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS*

Director Tim Burton is known for creating fantasy films that are filled with interesting characters and a unique narrative. Corpse Bride is certainly no different.
Burton has used stop motion animation to tell the story of Victor (voice of Johnny Depp) and the result is stunning. This isn't the first time Burton has used stop motion animation, he used this technique in his 1993 film, The Nightmare Before Christmas.
Set back in the late 1800s in a Victorian village, a man and woman by the names of Victor Van Dort and Victoria Everglot (Emily Watson) are betrothed because the Everglots need the money or else they'll be living on the streets and the Van Dorts want to be high in society. But when things go wrong at the wedding rehearsal, Victor goes into the woods to practice his vows. Just as soon as he gets them right, he finds himself married to Emily (Helena Bonham Carter), the corpse bride. While Victoria waits on the other side, there's a rich newcomer that may take Victor's place. So two brides, one groom, who will Victor pick?
Most of Burton's films are aimed at an older audience, however, Corpse Bride is a PG (aimed at children 8 years and up). While this isn't a horror film, I'd suggest watching it before showing it to children as there are a lot of dead characters but they're mainly portrayed in a comedic and friendly way. I was 8 when this film was released and I was a bit scared when I first watched it but it's now one of my favourite films.
The voice casting includes Burton's (now ex) girlfriend, Helena Bonham Carter, who is the perfect choice for the title character. In the beginning, we are scared of her but we soon warm to her as the story goes on and we learn about how she died.
Depp is, as usual, unrecognisable as Victor, a man who is frightened of his own shadow but is kind hearted and always tries to do the right thing.
Watson provides the voice of Victor's bride, Victoria, who is sweet and warms to Victor when they first meet.
Other voices include Joanna Lumley and Albert Finney as Victoria's parents who are the complete opposite of their daughter. They don't care about what their daughter truly wants, they only care about solving their financial problems which make them instantly unlikable.
The main antagonist is Lord Barkis (Richard E Grant) who wants to marry Emily. In my opinion, I'd say he's Burton's answer to Gaston from Beauty And The Beast as they're both selfish, vain and will do whatever it takes to get the girl.
Of course, it wouldn't be a Burton film without some music from his frequent collaborator, Danny Elfman. His songs are really catchy and the score is haunting which is perfect for the film.
Not only is this one of Burton's best films but it's the perfect film to watch during Halloween.
7/10