What do you think of when you think of Halloween? Zombies? Demons? Freaks of nature?

American filmmaker Tim Burton – often recognized for his gothic and abnormal style – hits all of these right on the nose. From cult classics to animated wonders, no one spins horror, fun, and emotion quite like Burton can. While Burton has worked on a few comedies, fantasy, and action movies, I’ll focus on the films that give us goosebumps. 

Edward Scissorhands

Tim Burton notables – Johnny Depp and Winona Ryder – lead in Edward Scissorhands, a heartfelt film following unfinished scientific creation, Edward. Freakishly beautiful, the movie enchants audiences with feeling and wonderment. It’s no doubt that Edward Scissorhands is one of Tim Burton’s best works.

Nightmare Before Christmas

Perfect soundtrack, jaw-dropping visuals, and lovable characters; what more could you ask for? The Nightmare Before Christmas is a childhood staple and annual rewatch, starring Danny Elfman and Cathrine O’Hara, and never fails to get me in the spooky spirit. While the film is debated if it is technically more of a Christmas movie, its overall sense of amazement does not diminish, no matter the season. 

Beetlejuice

Beetlejuice, starring Michael Keaton and Winona Ryder, is one of Burton’s most famous films and has quickly become a Halloween must-watch. The audience follows the couple Barbara and Adam into the afterlife; to keep their home from a family who has just moved in, they pair with devious “bio-exorcist” Beetlejuice. Gaining extra traction from the Broadway musical with Alex Brightman, this story never gets old. Keep your eyes peeled for a Beetlejuice 2!

Sweeney Todd

An adaptation of the brilliant musical Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, composed by Stephen Sondheim, this film twists dark humor and gore into one beautifully directed film. While still paying homage to the original orchestrations, Sweeney Todd is eccentric and aesthetically pleasing as it is creepy. Sweeney Todd is a thrilling watch and incredible listen, starring our favorite Halloween duo, Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter.

Corpse Bride

Corpse Bride is an animated film following Victor, a soon-to-be arranged husband to Victoria, and his encounter with Emily, a bride from the dead. Humorous and lovely, the movie speaks themes of love, belonging, and acceptance, and should be added to every “to watch” list.