Tim Burton rewatch! It’s a return to macabre animation with 2005’s Corpse Bride. Does it go according to plan?

Here’s what happens: Shy, awkward Victor is engaged to the equally shy Victoria. It’s an arranged marriage that will save both their families’ fortunes. When nervous Victor runs into the woods to practice his vows, he unknowingly says them to a corpse, who comes to life. Her name is Emily and she’s his… corpse bride! Things spiral out of control at this point, with visits to the afterlife and a murderous plot in the works.

Origin story: The movie is allegedly based on a 17th century Jewish folk tale commonly called “The Finger.” An arrogant man mockingly places an engagement ring onto a woman’s corpse. She revives from the dead and demands that the marriage go through. It’s a cautionary tale about taking promises seriously once you make them. In Burton’s film, the supernatural marriage results from a misunderstanding, rather than an act of arrogance.

Outsider theory: Victor can’t win, as he’s an outsider in his own world, and among the world of the dead. But Victor is not an innocent like Edward Scissorhands. He lies and manipulates Emily so that she’ll take him back to the land of the living. He is his parents’ son, it seems.

Best bits: “Die, die, we all pass away.

Don’t wear a frown, ‘cause it’s really okay.

You might try and hide, you might and pray,

But we all end up the remains of the day.”

Thoughts on this viewing: The movie has a lot of fun gags, great music, and beautiful visuals, but there’s just no right way to end it. You’d think Victor and Emily have a spark between them, and audiences are prone to root for couples from two different worlds. But the plot insists Victor and Victoria must get together, which requires another ending for Emily. There’s really no way to reconcile this love triangle that works for everyone.

Next: Rock n’ rolla!

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