Instructions:
- You are to complete an analytical film essay on ‘Edward Scissorhands’ by Tim Burton
(1990) . You will choose ONE essay topic from the options provided.
Essay Topics:
1. The Film ‘Edward Scissorhands’ explores the struggles of conformity vs
individuality through Edwards journey. Discuss with reference to mis-en-scene
elements.
or
2. Explore the impacts of forming relationships on self-identity and how this is
depicted in the film using elements of mis-en-scene.
Introduction
Give Context: Edward Scissorhands, directed by Tim Burton and released in 1990, tells the
story of Edward, a gentle, unfinished creation with scissors for hands, as he navigates life in a
suburban neighbourhood. The film explores themes of isolation, acceptance, and the clash
between individuality and conformity.
State Main Argument: Through the use of mise-en-scène elements such as lighting, costume
design, and setting, Burton conveys Edward's struggle with societal rejection and his desire
for acceptance.
Supporting Arguments: This essay will analyse how Burton’s use of light and colour,
costume, and setting in Edward Scissorhands deepens the themes of isolation, difference, and
acceptance.
Body Paragraphs
1. Light and Colour
Sub-Point: Burton uses contrasting lighting and colour schemes to highlight Edward’s
emotional isolation and his disconnect from society.
Evidence: The dark, gothic ambiance of Edward’s mansion contrasts sharply with the
vibrant, pastel colours of the suburban neighbourhood. Scenes in the mansion are
often dimly lit, with shadows casting eerie tones, while scenes in the suburbs are
bright and overly colourful.
Explanation/Analysis: This contrast visually represents Edward's isolation, as his
world is literally darker than that of the people around him. The shadowy lighting of
his mansion symbolizes his loneliness, while the exaggerated brightness of the
suburban world reflects its superficiality. Burton suggests that Edward’s perceived
strangeness is, in part, a result of society’s inability to see beyond appearances.
Linking Statement: By contrasting Edward’s dark world with the bright, superficial
suburb, Burton emphasizes society's rejection of those who don’t conform.
2. Costumes and Makeup
Sub-Point: Edward’s costume and makeup symbolize his status as an outsider and
highlight the theme of difference.
Evidence: Edward is dressed in a black, leather outfit with scars and pale skin, while
the townspeople wear everyday, colourful clothing. His scissor hands, which define
him physically, add to his “otherness.”
Explanation/Analysis: Edward’s dark, gothic costume and makeup are unsettling and
starkly different from the suburban attire, which represents normality and conformity.
His look evokes sympathy and discomfort, as it is both intimidating and pitiable. The
costume design makes Edward appear as an outsider, emphasizing society's quick
judgment of those who are different.
Linking Statement: The visual disparity between Edward and the townspeople
illustrates how Edward’s appearance defines his relationship with society, reinforcing
the theme of judgment.
3. Setting
Sub-Point: The contrast between Edward’s isolated mansion and the orderly suburb
serves as a physical representation of Edward’s emotional state.
Evidence: Edward’s home is an abandoned, crumbling mansion, filled with shadows
and intricate sculptures, while the suburb is orderly, pristine, and uniform.
Explanation/Analysis: The mansion, with its gothic architecture, represents Edward’s
inner world—complex, misunderstood, and isolated from the rest of society. In
contrast, the suburb is a symbol of societal expectations and the pressure to conform.
Through these contrasting settings, Burton suggests that true individuality is often
forced into the shadows by a society that fears difference.
Linking Statement: By juxtaposing Edward's mansion with the suburban environment,
Burton underscores the theme of isolation and critiques the limitations of societal
acceptance.
Conclusion
Restate Main Argument: Through the creative use of mise-en-scène, Edward Scissorhands
tells a story of isolation, difference, and the human need for acceptance.
Summarize Sub Arguments: Burton’s use of contrasting lighting and colour, distinct costume
design, and contrasting settings reveals the societal challenges faced by those who don’t fit
into conventional moulds.
Catchy End: In Edward Scissorhands, Burton presents a poignant message about the
consequences of judging by appearances, urging the audience to look beyond the surface and
embrace uniqueness.
