Movies Watched Since I Joined Listology (1 June 2009)

Edward Scissorhands (1990)

Director: Tim Burton

Starring: Johnny Depp, Dianne Wiest, Winona Ryder, Anthony Michael Hall

I have managed to go nineteen years without seeing this movie, partly because I seem to keep turning it on halfway through and partly because my other half doesn't like Tim Burton. So last night, with my wife off on a pampering break, I watched it on Sky.

The action seems to take place in a small town which exists out of time. The cars, houses and fashion sense of the people who live on a suburban street all smack of the 50s or 60s, but they have ultra-modern touches like dishwashers, and as the hero of the movie discovers to his dismay, very advanced alarm systems. Overlooking this street is a dark old house atop a brooding hill, and this is where Edward was "born", created by a mad scientist who didn't have time to finish his creation before he died. This unfortunate demise leaves Edward (Depp) with scissors and knives where his hands should be, although why he gave him these instead of some other kind of attachment isn't really explained.

Depp plays this innocent who is adopted by an Avon saleswoman (Wiest)with his usual ability to carry off eccentricity without appearing ridiculous, making you feel sorry for this poor creature, while at the same time laughing at his innocent mistakes and his efforts to pick up utensils and glasses. Once his abilities in topiary, dog grooming and hairdressing become apparent, he is in very high demand, but everyone just wants him for themselves. This includes the Avon lady's daughter (Ryder), who goes through a variety of emotions from fear and disgust to love as she gets to know and appreciate Edward.

Whatever became of Ryder by the way? She looks gorgeous in this movie, despite the dark eyelashes/blonde hair thing she has going.

RATING 6/10 - A typical off the wall Burton/Depp/Ryder collaboration