Frankenweenie !!!!!

Disney, as we all know is dear to many hearts. It is a part of almost everyone’s childhood. Now, Walt Disney Pictures has just released one of Tim Burton’s earliest works.

“Frankenweenie” (1984) is a 28-minute-long melodramatic black and white action short. The film deals with a young boy named Victor, who reanimates his dog and tries to convince his parents and neighborhood that Sparky is still the loyal companion he always was.

Burton, as it seems, was intrigued even back then by the so-called outsider and the man-made. His chosen hero, even in the beginning of his career as an auteur-style director was a tall, dainty, secluded male. It is evident that he read and was fascinated by gothic novels such as Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein”. Also, he makes direct reference to Boris Karloff’s 1931 version of “Frankenstein” by appropriating Frankenstein’s bride into a poodle.

His involvement in Walt Disney Pictures is demonstrated by means of several visual elements. These include a Donald Duck orange juice carton, a Pluto bicycle, and a Wolfman drinking cup.

Although Burton tried to appeal to his audience through reference to popular culture by referencing Alfred Hitchcock and Barbie in this case, he was fired from Disney for wasting their resources. This film was previously considered too scary for family viewing.

 In brief, this 80’s gothic action short invites Burton’s followers into the roots of his career. Frankenweenie has finally had the chance after 26 years to proclaim its directors true talents and personal cinematic preferences.