A.V. Opinions: Ed Wood is Tim Burton’s best movie
Tim Burton's filmography is filled with whimsical worlds, darkly comedic characters, and gothic aesthetics, but none of his films encapsulate his vision quite like “Ed Wood.” It’s a loving tribute to one of Hollywood’s most infamous filmmakers. It’s not just Burton’s best film; it’s his most mature and a masterclass in filmmaking that transcends its biopic roots to deliver an ode to the outsider artist.
Burton dives into the story of a real-life figure—Edward D. Wood Jr., often labeled as the worst director in history. The film doesn’t mock Wood’s failures but celebrates his relentless optimism and love for filmmaking, regardless of his lack of talent or resources. Burton captures the soul of an artist who never gave up, making “Ed Wood” a poignant exploration of ambition, friendship, and the passion that drives creatives against all odds.
At its heart are the performances. Johnny Depp delivers a standout portrayal of Ed Wood, bringing infectious enthusiasm to a man determined to make movies, no matter the obstacles. However, the true star of the film is Martin Landau, whose portrayal of horror legend Bela Lugosi earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Landau’s performance is nothing short of mesmerizing, embodying the tragic decline of Lugosi with a mix of humor, vulnerability, and pathos. His portrayal turns what could have been a caricature into a deeply human and heartbreaking figure, grounding the film in an emotional reality that is often missing in Burton’s other works.
My favorite attribute, though, is that it’s a love letter to filmmaking. “Ed Wood’s” black-and-white cinematography is not just an aesthetic choice; it’s a perfect tribute to the era of 1950s B-movies that Wood adored. Cinematographer Stefan Czapsky masterfully captures the feel of the period, with shadows and light playing a crucial role in evoking the films of the time. The monochrome palette enhances the film’s authenticity and nostalgia, immersing the audience in Wood’s world of cardboard sets, rubbery monsters, and questionable dialogue. The film’s kitschy presentation results in a film that feels like a loving embrace of the weird, the flawed, and the passionately determined—a true underdog story that speaks to anyone who’s ever chased an impossible dream.
“Ed Wood” is the rare film where every element—performances, visuals, tone, and narrative—comes together seamlessly. Burton’s direction is sharp and focused, perfectly balancing humor and pathos without descending into sentimentality or mockery. While Burton has created many iconic films, none capture the joy, struggle, and beauty of the creative process quite like “Ed Wood.” It’s a movie about making movies, and in its celebration of the strange and the sincere, it stands as Tim Burton’s best work—a testament to the enduring power of loving what you do, no matter how the world judges it.
-Brad McBoom