Tim Burton reunites with Danny Elfman in his first TV show focusing on the life of Wednesday Addams from ‘The Addams Family’. For some, it may not come as a surprise that Burton took on this project as his interest lies in depicting outcasts in marginalised societies as well as underlying themes of gothic and fantasy. His reimagination is a successful one in that the choice of cast, fashion, music and genre has appealed to a whole generation of those who have grown up with his other work such as ‘Corpse Bride’, ‘The Nightmare Before Christmas’ and ‘Edward Scissorhands’ as well as a new generation being raised in a world where we see trends emerging through social media.
It’s debateable as to whether this gothic series can be classed as a coming-of-age when following the life of a teenage psychopath. I think it was important for Burton to keep Wednesday’s personality, or lack thereof, and Jenna Ortega’s unblinking portrayal of her character in order to make for a successful reimagination. In an interview with ‘Teen Vogue’, Jenna talks about the former actor of Wednesday, Christina Ricci, in how she made sure not to discuss her part so as to make the role her own hence, I think it would be unfair to compare the two. The challenge lies in Jenna Ortega, who had to follow Christina Ricci who defined the role of Wednesday Addams in 1991, but has she managed to create a new wave of ‘goth girl’ in the 21st century? Colleen Atwood’s reinvention of Wednesday’s iconic look is one that did not disappoint. The limited colour palette stands out in the environment she is forced into making her appear an “outcast among outcasts”. The platform shoes, black dress and braids came together makes for an effective modernisation of her signature look.
Due to the nature of Tim Burton’s style, it can only be acceptable for him to reference the gothic author himself, Edgar Allen Poe. His work ‘The Raven’, is referenced a number of times during the show. The symbol of a raven is used across literary works to represent grief and loss which is the central theme throughout the morbid series used in the characterisation of its gothic lead. Enid plays the antithesis to Wednesday and is the epitome of everything she detests making for an engaging dynamic.
In comparison to his other works, Burton is known for his use of stop-motion when it comes to creating his starkly unique characters, I was disappointed with his portrayal of the character the Hyde. However, after seeing the behind the scenes for Thing played by Victor Dorobantu, who was paid to follow Jenna around in a blue suit, I can look past it. Instead, I am in admiration of her dedication to the role for which she learnt how to play the cello, took archery and fencing lessons, learnt German as well as choreographing one of the most iconic scenes in the series.
Overall, this Burtonesque series perfectly encapsulates his unique style whilst targeting a modern-day audience as well as being only eight episodes so get ready to binge the whole series in one evening!
Isabella Stones
BFI Film Academy
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