The Tim Burton Study

In the Tim Burton Study, we will try to cover as many aspects of the syllabus as we can, with reference to one filmmaker. 

The summaries in these pages should be used as a launch into deeper exploration of the filmmaker, their context and their films.  Consider these summary points and see if you can find examples in each film you watch.

System of communication 

• artistic and cultural benefits of media work 

• auteur figures, personal expression and aesthetics 

Narrative, codes and conventions 

• manipulation of narrative elements and narrative structures 

• media aesthetics and the construction of themes 

• use of techniques, codes and conventions to challenge expectations 

Representation 

• how representations are constructed in media work 

• media as a vehicle to challenge representations 

Audience 

• how media theories are used to interpret audience response to media work 

• how cultural contexts and values influence the interpretation of media work 

Industry 

Media producers 

• the challenges faced by independent media producers 

• how media producers meet niche audiences’ expectations 

Production contexts 

• media aesthetics within production contexts 

• the impact of cultural influences on media content