adj used to describe
people, objects, actions or a kind of atmosphere/tone, which
bare a resemblance in nature style to the films of acclaimed director Tim Burton. Burton's films are encapsulated by imaginative and fantastical worlds and characters, reminiscent of the horror films, folk tales and fairytales that bare influence upon the director. These films are characteristically surreal, avant-garde and expressionistic, the tone of which is commonly described as '
dark' and '
gothic' owing to Burton's romanticism and fascination with the macabre. Burton approaches uncomfortable topics with great wit and humour - as if laughing at the world for taking itself too seriously. Burton uses satire,
irony and the anti-hero as a tools for social commentary, which is magnified by his juxtaposition of the cliche and the absurd.
Johnny Depp says of Burton: "He is an artist, a genius, an oddball, an insane, brilliant, brave, hysterically funny, loyal, non-conformist, honest
friend" (Burton on Burton revised edition). This statement is one's best reference for the term Burtonesque, as all of theses qualities are inherent in the films of Tim Burton.
