Burton on Burton

This book covers everything. It's a serious must for film students. I got a complete idea of how to put ideas on the screen and how it affects peoples views. This book never covers up anything. I enjoyed it and it's worth the money

I bought this book wanting to know a bit more about one of my favorite directors, and I got much more in return. Burton writes about his life as a child growing up in Burbank, California, from his time at CalArts in Valencia, his stay at Disney, and the launching of his own directorial stardum. The forward, which is written by Johnny Depp, tells of their first acquaintance, and almost instantaneous partnership. Burton really does go through much detail of his life, both in career and personal aspects, and I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Certainly a must for Burton fans, but also for anyone interested in knowing more about the creative genius behind such unforgettable masterpieces.

i've always been a big fan of Tim Burton's films and this book fulfills any questions i might've had about this unique filmmaker. like all of the books of this series, it is an exhaustive examination of Burton's life and his films starting from his childhood in Burbank all the way up to SLEEPY HOLLOW. the interviews are very informative and candid (esp. his comments on the aborted SUPERMAN film). Burton isn't known for being the most chatty filmmaker in the world but the interviewer really gets him to open up. if you love Burton's films this book is essential. i'd rank it right up there with the also fantastic Lynch On Lynch and Gilliam On Gilliam books. now, when is Faber & Faber going to do one on the Coens?

The "X on X" series (Scorsese on Scorsese, Sayles on Sayles, etc.) is one of the best sources you'll ever find on a particular filmmaker. "Burton on Burton" is no exception. You'll find information on his childhood, his motivations, his early career at Disney, and background on the making of all his movies up to "Ed Wood." If you're a fan as I am (check out my site), it's an invaluable resource.

If you've seen Tim Burton in a broadcast interview, chances are that you know that he is not the most fluid of speakers, and for this reason I approached this extended interview with trepidation. However, beneath the sombre dust-jacket is an energetic and lively human being, who infuses the most simplistic life experiences with an infectious enthusiasm which makes this book an absolute joy. The prose simply sparkles with intelligence, and probably just scratches the surface of his brilliance. Burton impresses with his underlying sense of artistic integrity, but amazes with his heartfelt discussions about art and character. He wants you to share the sense of fun that these experiences have given him, and speaks passionately on many aspects of life. Here is someone not afraid to relate the most pedantic details if he considers them to have impacted his vision, and this is where the book excels most. In many ways, the talk about his actual films is comparatively mundane when compared to recollections of the experiences that shaped them. Topped off with a selection of Burton's distinctive artwork, this is a fine addition to the library of any movie fan, and it will leave you in awe of one of a cinematic talent that defies categorisation. In the foreword, Johnny Depp calls Burton a genius, and having read the man's take on the world, I think that it's a label I wouldn't argue with. This book is an exemplary example of the interview form, and proof that the best medium for preserving discussion will always be the written page.