Serving as a polar opposite to HOUSE OF SAND AND FOG is the upbeat and inspiring BIG FISH, directed by Tim Burton and adapted from Daniel Wallace's novel by screenwriter John August. Yes, the film is interesting because it contains a lot of original scenes and is unlike any other movie, but on a deeper level it addresses the conflict between hardcore realists and those who exist in a more fantastic state of mind, and does so without necessarily choosing one over the other. The idea is that both can co-exist in harmony.


I don't think anyone doubts that Tim Burton -- the director of films like EDWARD SCISSORHANDS and BEETLEJUICE -- falls on the fantasy side of this debate, which is probably what attracted him to the material in the first place. To his credit, I was amazed by the way Burton managed to combine the film's realism and fantasy elements, blending the two without ever losing control of the overall feel and tone. A less skilled director would have made a film that felt disjointed.

If you don't already know the premise, the always good (and rarely acknowledged) Billy Crudup stars as William Bloom, a realist at heart who has had to suffer through his father's countless tall tales over the years. The two become so divided by this that they're barely on speaking terms towards the beginning of the film. But when his dad (played by Albert Finney) ends up on his death bed, Will returns home with the idea that he might be able to get past all of the unbelievable stuff and figure out what kind of man his father really was. No such luck, however, as we are treated to the fantastic story of Edward Bloom's life, and I must say it's definitely worth hearing even if it is far-fetched. From working in a circus to flying behind enemy lines during the Korean war, Edward just about does it all.


Ewan McGregor plays the optimistic and adventurous younger version of Edward, and delivers one of those performances that is pitch perfect and couldn't have been done with more charm. His character is almost unrealistically cheery and upbeat, but it matches the surrealism of the story. Had McGregor pushed any further, we would be forced to write off the entire film as being too far over the top.

BIG FISH is a fantasy film that can be enjoyed by realists and fantasy-fans alike, which is quite an impressive accomplishment. You don't have to believe everything that happens, but that's fine because you're not always supposed to. The end manages to be heartfelt and moving without manipulating the viewer, and also ties things up nicely with a resolution between father and son that should satisfy you no matter what your personal tastes. Ultimately, the film is about embracing life to the fullest and having a good time along the way. BIG FISH is one of the best films of 2003 and good enough that I'm finally ready to forgive Burton for making me sit through his PLANET OF THE APES remake.

Posted January 11, 2004 | link