GLOSSARY GRAB
What is a filmmaker with a distinct style across all their films called?
Auteur
Was Tim Burton originally an animator or a director?
Animator
What does “mise-en-scène” mean?
Everything in the frame – costumes, lighting, props, sets, actor placement
What are two features of the gothic genre?
Dark settings, mystery, supernatural elements, horror, emotional extremes
What kind of pet is Sparky?
A dog
What does “homage” mean in film?
A respectful reference or tribute to another work, director, or style
What animation company did Burton work for early in his career?
Disney
Name one feature of German Expressionist style used by Burton.
Exaggerated sets, harsh lighting, distorted angles, emotional visual storytelling
How does Burton make his films feel gothic?
Uses eerie music, dramatic lighting, spooky settings, and gothic characters
What classic horror story is Frankenweenie inspired by?
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
What is anthropomorphism?
Giving human traits to nonhuman things like animals or objects
What kind of characters does Burton often focus on?
Outsiders, misunderstood, quirky or emotionally isolated characters
What can reflective surfaces like mirrors suggest in film?
Themes like identity, duality, self-reflection, or distorted reality
What is a typical gothic character Burton might use?
A lonely outsider, tragic hero, or misunderstood figure
What’s one gothic element used in Frankenweenie?
Reanimation of the dead, stormy skies, eerie lighting, creepy lab
What is “chiaroscuro lighting”?
Lighting that uses strong contrasts between light and dark to create dramatic shadows
How does Burton’s background as an artist influence his films?
He uses distinctive visual styles, character designs, and imaginative sets
Why does Burton often use high-contrast lighting?
To create mood or highlight a character’s emotional state
Name a gothic setting you’ve seen in a Burton film.
Graveyard, creepy mansion, stormy lab, isolated village
How is anthropomorphism shown in Frankenweenie?
Sparky the dog acts with emotion, loyalty, and human-like behaviour
What’s the purpose of montage in film?
To show the passing of time or summarise events efficiently
How is Tim Burton influenced by German Expressionism?
He uses dramatic shadows, exaggerated sets, and visual storytelling to reflect emotion
How do mise-en-scène and expressionist techniques work together in a Burton film?
They help visually express a character’s inner feelings and build a unique atmosphere
Why does Burton combine gothic and quirky elements?
To explore deep emotional themes while maintaining creativity and humour
How does Frankenweenie reflect Burton’s personal experiences?
It’s based on his love of monster films and the grief of losing a pet in childhood