Go to there: Tim Burton exhibition @ TIFF Bell Lightbox


The Tim Burton exhibition's only in Toronto at the TIFF Bell Lightbox for another couple weeks, and with that deadline looming I finally got my ass in gear to check it out on Friday.

My biggest regret in not visiting sooner, is that I couldn't recommend it to you fine folks with more advance notice.

Offering a chronological collection of character studies, notes, artifacts and costumes from Burton's many inspired films, it proved to be a splendid way to spend an afternoon.

I was easily drawn to those pieces from films I knew well from childhood. Batman's mask, Catwoman's costume and Penguin's carriage from Batman and Batman Returns were only outshone in my eyes by Edward Scissorhands' costume. I stood and shamelessly stared at the details on that thing for quite a while, establishing that Johnny Depp's feet are maybe a size bigger than mine.

The exhibit also serves as a reminder of Burton's expansive filmography -- From Beetlejuice, Nightmare Before Christmas, and James and the Giant Peach to the more recent Big Fish, Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory and Alice In Wonderland.

An adjacent room houses a collection of artwork from Burton's time in California art school in the 1980s, reflecting the development of his signature style and sense of humour.

Meanwhile, the exhibit is finished off with a collection of unrealized works -- character studies developed for projects that never came to full fruition.

Museum-goers are also treated to a screening of Burton's little-seen 1982 interpretation of Hansel & Gretel, which is bizarre enough to keep you fixated through its entire 22 minutes.

For the film buff or pop culture enthusiast, this is a great exhibit that offers insight into the artistic mind of Burton, in addition to an up-close look at cinematic artifacts.

The Tim Burton exhibit is at the TIFF Bell Lightbox until April 17. Click here for ticket info.