1. Frankenweenie - Tim Burton
Say what you will about his more recent releases but Burton is a cinematic master. A true visionary full to the brim with ideas, craft and talent. While some may have come to tire of his aesthetic, I would suggest that this is Burton stamp on a film that too many modern filmmakers are afraid to put on their works. I don't subscribe, as a film lover, to the idea that you are only as good as your last movie. Burton has shown in the past that he has a genuinely unique, heart-felt and atmospheric story in him as made showcased by Edward Scissorhands, Beetlejuice, Ed Wood and most recently, Frankenweenie. Here you can catch two of Burton's short films and both are great. Vincent is a stop motion animation film which acts as a tribute to Vincent Price and an autobiographical story about some of Burton's struggles growing up. Although, when Burton put it together, even to the surprise of himself, he got the actual Vincent Price to voice his little short. However, for me, the main attraction I think Burton's live action version of Frankenweenie is one of his greatest works. Made with the help of Disney (who incidentally didn't know what to do with it once it was done), it shows the story of a little boy bringing his dead dog back to life. Clearly autobiographical, the short film shows so much flair and imagination that it is a true joy to watch. While I really enjoyed the animated adaption, it has nothing on this little gem. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2rcPe9sojpc