Corpse Bride (2005)

*Corpse Bride* is a visually stunning stop-motion animation feature, set in a 19th-century European village, that follows the story of Victor Van Dort, a young man whisked away to the underworld and unwittingly wed to the mysterious Corpse Bride, Emily, while his real bride, Victoria Everglot, waits bereft in the land of the living. This darkly enchanting tale masterfully contrasts the drab, colorless world of the living with the vibrant, lively realm of the dead, creating a unique gothic romance. It's a film that gracefully weaves together macabre humor with profound themes of love, sacrifice, and finding beauty in unexpected places, presented with a distinctive blend of melancholic charm and heartfelt emotion. This film undeniably belongs on a "Best Tim Burton Movies" list because it is a masterful showcase of his signature style and thematic preoccupations, arguably more so than many of his live-action features. It perfectly encapsulates his distinct gothic aesthetic, from the spindly, melancholic character designs (like Victor and Emily) to the atmospheric world-building that juxtaposes the sterile Victorian era with a surprisingly vibrant afterlife. The film is a testament to his unparalleled ability to craft darkly whimsical narratives that explore profound themes of love, identity, and the afterlife with both humor and heart. With its hauntingly beautiful Danny Elfman score and the evocative voice performances by frequent collaborators like Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter, *Corpse Bride* stands as a definitive example of Burton's unique vision, cementing its place as a cherished classic within his acclaimed filmography.