Monsters, misfits, and AI

Tim Burton opens up ahead of London exhibition

As fans gear up for The World of Tim Burton retrospective in London, the iconic director has revealed that the internet leaves him feeling "quite depressed." Known for his darkly whimsical films like Edward Scissorhands, Beetlejuice, and Batman, Burton admitted that the digital world makes him feel disconnected and uneasy.

"Anybody who knows me knows I'm a bit of a technophobe," the 66-year-old said in an interview with BBC News, reflecting on his struggles with technology. His aversion to the online realm is more than just a personal quirk; it stems from his experiences of feeling overwhelmed by its chaotic nature. Burton described how browsing the web led him down a "dark hole," leaving him rattled. "I try to avoid it because it doesn't make me feel good," he emphasised, adding that it doesn't take much for him to feel overwhelmed and "short circuit."

What does help him cope with his digital blues? Surprisingly, it's a collection of giant dinosaur models. Burton has a quirky escape from his technological woes, proudly displaying massive amusement-park-style dinosaur sculptures in his backyard, including a 50-foot Brontosaurus and a 20-foot T-Rex. "Nicolas Cage has real ones," he joked, showcasing his playful side while talking about his larger-than-life creations. The director's whimsical nature shines through in his affection for these colorful behemoths, serving as a reminder of the innocence and imagination that drives his art.

But fans hoping to see Burton dive back into superhero territory might be disappointed. When asked if he would ever return to directing a superhero film, particularly another Batman installment, Burton's response was a swift and definitive "no." He reflected on the experience of directing the iconic Batman in 1989 and its sequel, Batman Returns, in 1992, recalling, "It felt new at the time. There was pressure because it was a big movie and a different interpretation of comic books, but not the pressure you would experience now." His experience with the franchise remains a significant chapter in his career, but the winds of change have shifted his focus.

As for future projects, Burton is keeping his cards close to his chest. When jokingly asked about potentially tackling a new version of Frankenstein, he quipped, "No, no! I've done my version with a dog," referring to his beloved 2012 film Frankenweenie. Instead, he expressed excitement about the recent successes of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice and Netflix's hit series Wednesday, for which he directed four episodes. "The Hollywood journey is an Alice in Wonderland kind of journey. You go up, you go down, you go sideways. That's the way it is," he mused, capturing the unpredictable nature of the film industry.

Meanwhile, the retrospective at the Design Museum opens this Friday, showcasing over 600 items that illuminate his creative process and celebrate his legacy. The exhibition features objects from his films ranging from Catwoman to Corpse Bride, offering fans an intimate peek into his 50-year career. Visitors will encounter early sketches of Edward Scissorhands and props from Burton's iconic films, lending insight into the mind of a master storyteller.

Despite his struggles with technology, Burton has deep concerns about artificial intelligence. He described how AI-generated imagery, particularly last year's AI transformation of Disney characters into his signature style, left him feeling like his "soul had been taken." He remarked, "It's something robbing you of humanity," echoing the fears many share about the encroaching presence of AI in creative fields.