Top 10 Tim Burton Movies & IMDB Scores

Tim Burton, the visionary director known for his gothic and whimsical style, has left an indelible mark on the modern film industry.

With a career spanning several decades, Burton has crafted some of the most iconic and beloved movies in cinema history and has cemented his reputation as a master of the animated form. From his early days as an animator at Disney to his Oscar-nominated masterpieces, Burton's unique blend of dark humour, fantastical elements, and emotional depth has captivated audiences of all ages around the world.

Let's delve into the top Tim Burton movies of all time, according to IMDB scores.

1. Big Fish - 2004 - 8

In Big Fish, Burton takes viewers on a magical journey through the vivid imagination of Edward Bloom, a man whose tall tales have shaped his son's perception of reality. As his son seeks to unravel the truth behind his father's extraordinary stories, they both discover the power of storytelling to shape reality.

With stellar performances by Ewan McGregor, Albert Finney, and Jessica Lange, this heartwarming tale explores the complexities of family relationships and the power of storytelling to transcend generations. It is undoubtedly one of the best Tim Burton movies of all time, hence its IMDB score.

2. Edward Scissorhands - 1990 - 7.9

Tim Burton's Edward Scissorhands follows the poignant story of a gentle, unfinished creation with scissors for hands, portrayed by Johnny Depp. When Edward is taken in by a suburban family, his artistic talents captivate the community but also lead to misunderstandings and heartbreak. This modern fairy tale explores themes of love, acceptance, and the pain of being different. And thanks to its striking visuals and emotionally resonant narrative, Burton's exploration of love, acceptance, and societal norms proves to be as timeless as it is thought-provoking.

3. The Nightmare Before Christmas - 1993 - 7.9

A masterpiece of stop-motion animation, The Nightmare Before Christmas is a delightfully macabre tale set in the whimsical world of Halloween Town. Voiced by Chris Sarandon and Catherine O'Hara, the story follows Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King, as he discovers Christmas and attempts to bring holiday cheer to his gloomy domain.

Owing to its catchy musical numbers and Tim Burton's signature gothic aesthetic, The Nightmare Before Christmas has become a beloved classic for audiences of all ages - especially around the holidays.

4. Ed Wood - 1994 - 7.8

In Ed Wood, Burton pays homage to the titular filmmaker, who, after winning a Golden Turkey award, has been considered the worst director of all time.

Johnny Depp delivers a standout performance as the eccentric Ed Wood, and he stars alongside Martin Landau, who offers an equally fun and enchanting performance. This biographical comedy-drama affectionately portrays Wood's passion for filmmaking despite his lack of talent and poignantly reflects on the nature of art and the importance of pursuing one's dreams.

5. Beetlejuice - 1988 - 7.5)

Beetlejuice showcases Burton's knack for blending horror and comedy in a visually stunning and wildly entertaining film. Starring Michael Keaton, Alec Baldwin, and Geena Davis, the film follows a recently deceased couple who enlist the help of the mischievous Beetlejuice to rid their home of its new inhabitants. With its hilariously quirky characters, zany humour, and highly inventive special effects, this cult classic remains a standout entry in Burton's filmography.

6. Batman - 1989 - 7.5

Burton's dark and atmospheric take on the iconic superhero revitalised the Batman franchise and set a new standard for comic book adaptations. Starring Michael Keaton as the brooding caped crusader and Jack Nicholson as the menacing Joker, Batman explores themes of identity and justice, as well as the blurred lines between hero and villain. Batman's stylish visuals and gripping storyline undoubtedly helped lay the groundwork for the modern superhero genre.

7. Corpse Bride - 2005 - 7.4

In Corpse Bride, Burton invites audiences into a macabre yet enchanting world populated by animated corpses who struggle with forbidden love. Featuring the voice talents of Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter, the film tells the story of Victor, a young man who inadvertently marries a deceased bride while practising his wedding vows in the forest.

Thanks to its visually stunning animation and poignant themes of love and sacrifice, Corpse Bride is a hauntingly beautiful tale that deservedly sits among the best movies by Tim Burton.

8. Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street - 2007 - 7.3

A departure from Burton's usual whimsical style, Sweeney Todd is a dark and brooding musical thriller set in Victorian London. Johnny Depp delivers a tour-de-force performance as the titular barber seeking vengeance against the man who imprisoned him and kidnapped his daughter, while Helena Bonham Carter shines as his accomplice, Mrs. Lovett. With its haunting music, gruesome violence, and tragic storyline, this adaptation of Stephen Sondheim's Broadway hit is a chilling exploration of obsession, revenge, and the human condition.

9. Sleepy Hollow - 1999 - 7.3

Sleepy Hollow is a disturbingly atmospheric horror mystery in which the viewers are transported to an eerie town plagued by a headless horseman.

Starring Johnny Depp as Ichabod Crane, a sceptical constable investigating a series of grisly murders, and Christina Ricci as the enigmatic Katrina Van Tassel, the film masterfully blends gothic imagery, suspenseful storytelling, and supernatural elements. The film’s gripping plot twists and striking cinematography help turn Burton's interpretation of Washington Irving's classic tale into a captivating homage to the horror genre. Sleepy Hollow remains a standout film among Tim Burton’s filmography.

10. Batman Returns - 1992 - 7.1

In Batman Returns, Burton once again brings his dark and whimsical sensibilities to Gotham City, with Michael Keaton reprising his role as the brooding vigilante. This time, Batman faces off against the devious Penguin (Danny DeVito) and the seductive Catwoman (Michelle Pfeiffer). With its visually stunning set designs, complex characters, and Burton's trademark blend of quirky humour and gritty visuals, this sequel remains a standout entry in the Batman franchise and among the best Tim Burton films.

With each of these top 10 Tim Burton movies boasting impressive IMDB scores, it's clear that Burton's unique vision and storytelling prowess have left an indelible mark on cinema and will continue to captivate audiences for generations to come.

Click the link and grab new movie tickets & check our movie tickets offers to enjoy VOX Cinemas. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X and Threads to stay up-to-date on the latest movie new and check back here for more VOX Voice articles.