
Majority of people are mostly familiar with TB’s more recent works, like Alice in Wonderland, The Corpse Bride and The Nightmare Before Christmas – all of which I thoroughly enjoyed, but really under Hollywood production standards. But, with this exhibit, you get a really good look at an anthology of TB visions – before we were introduced to the classics, Beetlejuice and Pee Wee’s Big Adventure (both of which hold a special place in my heart). His illustrations from his younger years still captured that fun, dark sense of humour – got some good chuckles from them. You even get to see a rejection letter from Disney (years before he started working for them as an animator) for a children’s book he wrote and illustrated. You also get a good look at a number of sketches, sculptures, costumes, and props based on his imaginatively creative and sympathetic monsters and characters – some created by him and others from artists he still works with today.

Pictures aren’t permitted in the exhibit, but I definitely got my eyes set on the monstrous-sized art book ($75, but, I think it’s well worth it – it’s not like Burton needs the dough, but if you’ve been a fan of the guy’s work, you’ll appreciate this collection. It’s something heavy too!).
There’s even a nice surprise at the end of the show.
*******(SPOILER ALERT!!! Don’t continue reading if you’re going to see the show for yourself!!! SPOILER ALERT!!!! SPOILER ALERT!!!!!……… You’ve been warned…) It was a great ending to the show. Right when you walk out of the main room, you’re directed to the right, where you get to see one of his earliest short films, Hansel and Gretal. This live action short features Japanese actors and amazing set designs (which TB created with his bare hands) is probably the gem of his earlier work. It’s a pretty dark story to begin with. Created for Disney’s Japanese channel, and only aired once in the US – with a limited budget in mind, it was quite awesome to see what the young TB manifested. The evil step-mom/witch got what she had coming too… old bitch.*******
If you have a thing for the fun and the weird with an anthropomorphic touch – please, check out the show. You won’t regret it.
Also, check out the informative review from the Globe and Mail here.The article also talks about the spoiler at the end – so again, be warned!
And hey, if you want to buy tickets, go here!