Movie Review ... Frankenweenie

 

One of Tim Burton’s earliest works was a short movie called ‘Frankenweenie’.  An ode to the vintage horror films he loved gained Hollywood’s attention.  It’s obvious he has never forgotten the accolades it gave and he returns to the material in this animated remake.  Full of the quirky mix of humour and thrills for which he is renowned, his ability in telling a beguiling story remains undimmed.

Victor Frankenstein is a young boy living with his parents and adored dog Sparky.  When Sparky is killed in an accident, Victor is despondent.  His sadness doesn’t last as he discovers a way to resurrect his deceased pet.  Digging up its corpse he successfully revives it during an electrical storm.  Little does he know of the trouble he unleashes when fellow class-mates decide to replicate his audacious plan.

‘Frankenweenie’ again exhibits Burton’s flair in making the macabre so enjoyable.  Filmed in bleak black and white, the colourful story bursts to life in all its gothic splendour.  You genuinely care for Victor and the cast of peculiar denizens as events spiral out of control.  That’s the key to a good animated film – bringing characters to life and identifying with some of their traits. 

Unlike recent similar efforts, it has timelessness devoid of cheap gags and makes an effort in being amusing.  This is very much for all ages with a great blend of genre styles.  These elements create a beguiling monster-mash with the many references to cinema’s horror classics providing much fiendish fun.  There are some messages if one looks for them with broadening one’s horizons a theme with which anyone can relate.

‘Frankenweenie’ is an enjoyably atmospheric tale revelling in its weirdness.  It’s nice seeing Burton re-working his original material with his catalogue of hits has proving his fertile imagination is perfect for the silver screen’s large canvas.

Movie Review Rating out of 10:  7

Movie Review by Patrick Moore

Agree with Patrick about his Movie Review? Then please use the comment box, titling your comments with Movie Review Frankenweenie

Patrick Moore's Movie Review is an alternative look at current movie releases in Australia.

Official HomePage click HERE

SOUNDTRACK

DVD