20 Films To Watch If You Love Halloween But Hate Horror

The genre of the 'biopic' is tricky to pull off, especially when it's about "the world's worst director", but Tim Burton nails it by remaining neutral on the legacy of Ed Wood and simply presenting him for the man he was. There are a few historical inaccuracies but nevertheless, it’s a tale of inspiration as the titular character is passionate and driven, despite his constant failures. The movie is not a mockery, but a tribute.

Johnny Depp excels in the lead role, giving Ed Wood layers of determination and oddities, without making him a caricature of the original man. Ed is a struggling horror movie maker who continues to produce new films with measly budgets. The story lets you decide whether to root for him or not, but either way, it presents you with a character that you become invested in.

True to Burton’s form, the cinematography is gorgeous as the director makes the wise choice of producing the film in black and white, as an homage to the aesthetic of Ed Wood’s movies. From the spooky graveyard opening to the authentic recreation of Wood’s Plan 9 From Outer Space, this is one of Burton’s best achievements.

Funny, poignant, creative - It is a movie which any aspiring filmmaker should watch.