Real life and fantasy in one great movie

Tim Burton is well known for his amazing directorial skills, and all of his movies are extremely visual. From Edward Scissorhands to Nightmare Before Christmas, he stamps his mark of 'oddness' on everything he is involved with.

Big Fish is no different, though it may surprise some of his fans. Although fantastical in places (giants, witches, hidden villiages, siamese twins, and floods of biblical proportions), the story is essentially very human, very emotional, and very true-to-life.

The acting is commendable all around, Ewen McGregor's trademark grin flashing through his lines with delight, while Finney (playing the same character, older) lends a heaviness of years and illness to the part without ever becoming depressing - the tearful portions of the film WILL have you reaching for a hankie, but are never overstretched.

While not completely mystifying, Big Fish does leave you with some questions, and your interpretation may not be the same as the people you watch it with.

Well acted, beautifully shot, and masterfully directed. An utterly joyful movie to immerse yourself in.