Tim Burton at the El Capitan
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Tim Burton's Appearance at The Nightmare Before Christmas at Hollywood's El Capitan Theatre
Hollywood's historic El Capitan Theatre returned with its now annual showing of "Tim Burton's Nightmare Before Christmas" on October 16, 2003. In addition to "Nightmare," the evening included the short subjects "Vincent" and "Frankenweenie." The four day run was highlighted on opening night with an appearance by Tim Burton himself, at both the 7:30 and 10pm screenings.
Setting a properly spooky mood was live organ music, performed on the El Cap's mighty Wurlitzer. After the massive console sank out of sight below the stage, the theater manager introduced Dick Cook, Chairman of the Walt Disney Studios.
Cook welcomed the capacity crowd, saying "It wouldn't be Halloween on Hollywood Boulevard if we didn't show ‘The Nightmare Before Christmas.'" He mentioned that the film had debuted at the El Capitan ten years earlier, as an image of the debut was shown on the screen.
Dick Cook went on to introduce members of the "Nightmare" production team in attendance that night. Seated in the house were director Henry Selick, visual consultant Rick Heinrichs, and Glen Shadix, the voice of the Mayor of Halloweentown. Cook then paused before saying, "We're thrilled to have the pumpkin king himself, Tim Burton!" As Tim Burton strode onto the stage from the wings, the audience broke into applause and cheers.
Burton began by saying, "Halloween is a great time of year." He offered a few brief words about the holidays and the film. He finished his comments with a little joke, saying, "And I want to say a special thank you to the people who have shown me their ‘Nightmare Before Christmas' tattoos over the years." Microphones were then made available for questions from the audience.
The first question was: What is your favorite of your own films? Burton replied, "I can't pick a favorite. Like children they may be ugly, but they're yours." He went on to add that it was a special pleasure working with stop motion animation, however.
Will you turn "Nightmare Before Christmas" into a Broadway play? "No. We thought we'd go right to the Ice Show."
What inspired the original poem? "A lot of free time." Burton went on to say he was a big fan of Dr. Seuss, and that his work was a major influence.
What's the back story between Jack and Oogie Boogie? Burton laughed, and said, "Some things are best left behind closed doors."
Would you consider making "Nightmare" into a live action feature? "This medium is best for these characters. You know: a stick figure with no eyes!"
That question was followed up with: If I did a live action version would you sue me? After audience laughter, Burton said, "No. But a SWAT team of Disney lawyers would."
Are any characters based on people you knew? After a short pause, Burton said, "I never really felt I knew people at all." He mused aloud for a moment, then said, "It is seemingly based on reality, though I don't know anyone with no eyes."
The next question concerned an eagerly anticipated DVD release: When might we see a release date for "Ed Wood?" Burton brightened as he talked about this. "I am putting in scenes I like. Like ones with Bill Murray in the meat packing plant." He did not have a definite date, stating that Disney would release it sometime soon.
Could the Lakers do it without Coby? "How about them Dodgers?"
Tell us about the ending of "Nightmare." What does it mean to you? "I wanted it to be emotional, even though these characters are odd and not pretty."
Is there any chance you will be doing stop motion again in the future? "Yes."
Burton was next asked to comment on his remake of Willie Wonka. He seemed very reluctant, saying, "I don't like to talk about it beforehand. It may turn out differently, and then I am a liar. But we will see..."
What advice would he have for an aspiring film maker? "Have an idea. Be passionate about it. And don't worry about the form it takes."
The final question was about another rumored project, "Corpse Bride." When asked if he was making it, Burton chuckled, "I read the internet, and I think I must have an evil twin out there."
The manager then signaled that it was time to roll the film. And with a final smile and a wave, Burton exited to a rousing ovation.
Discuss It!
-- Posted January 12, 2004
-- Story and pictures by Doug Marsh
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