Tim Burton Cinematic Techniques Analysis

A person does not usually pay attention to cinematic techniques used in a film because one does not think of the details in the movie. These details are a key part in creating the mood and tone. Tim Burton uses similar techniques in his movies to create a suspenseful mood. Many instances of low key lighting were used to create a suspenseful mood. Along with low key lighting, low and high camera angles were used to show authority and importance. Lastly, non-diegetic sound was used to create a dramatic effect while still making the mood suspenseful. A cinematic technique Burton often uses is low key lighting. In his opening credits during Big Fish and Edward Scissorhands, the credits were dull and dark. An example would be in Edward Scissorhands. Edward’s house was in low key lighting

High angles and low angles are often used to show either authority or importance. In Edward Scissorhands, a low angle was used on Kim as she was spinning around in the snow Edward created by shaving an ice sculpture. The low angle showed how she felt superior and great euphoria. This moment is when she realized how much Edward was unique and important to her. Also in Edward Scissorhands, a high angle of the garden in Edward’s mansion was used to show how small Peg was compared to it. The garden was big and elegant making Peg seem small and insignificant as she walked. Moving on to Big Fish, there was a low angle of William speaking to his father while he is laying sick in the bed. This shows how he holds the authority as of now. Will finally has the upper hand over his father and the low angle is used to reflect this. To contrast, a high angle was used on Edward while he is laying in the bed to show how he has to look up at his son because of his sickness. This intended effect was used to show how the parent doesn’t always have the upper hand in some situations. Camera angles are an important technique Burton uses, but so is