Many of Burton’s productions have successfully highlighted his auteuristic style. Through the use of film techniques, Burton has proven his ability to address important social issues. Edward Scissorhands (1990), Burton’s contemporary gothic archetype, explores themes like forced conformity, indifferent individuals and harsh realities of love. Burton’s Edward Scissorhands is a film that successfully highlights social concerns. Edward Scissorhands focuses on love, just like other films. It examines the realities and consequences of romantic relationships. A scene in which Edward builds an ice sculpture to represent an angel and Kim slow-dances alongside him is an example of this idea. Props (under mise-en–scene) are used for symbolism. Edward makes an angelic ice sculpture of Kim to express his love. He views her as his light and inspiration. However, his differences make it difficult for him to express his feelings and show his affection. Kim’s joy and amusement are shown through facial expressions (characterisation de mise-en scene). Kim’s joyous dance is a sign that she has let go of her preconceptions about Edward and accepted him as he is. The film uses snow as a symbol of purity and innocence. This scene also depicts the joyful and angelic love. Important social concerns are explored in Edward Scissorhands through Burton’s effective utilisation of film techniques.Furthermore, the idea of internal struggles is well established throughout the film. This film explores what it means to be an indifferent person, and helps you make important realizations. This idea can be seen in a dialogue (diegetic sounds) between Edward & Kim. Kim: Huge me. Edward: I can’t.”
This highlights Edward’s struggles with indifferentity. He knows he has a tendency to hurt people and things that matter to him, but he’s afraid to let Kim know. Edward starts to feel resentful and unworthy of himself. After accidentally injuring Kim, Edward looks in disapproval at his reflection in a mirror (reflective surfaces of German expressionism). He hates and loathes his own actions of causing harm to his loved ones and is unable to accept himself. This is an indication of how society influences an entity. The film is filled with the theme conformity. The film is focused on forced conformity. Burton’s demonizations of suburbia are evident in a panning shot (camera motion) of Edward’s suburban suburbs. Contrasting the pastel-colored suburbia with Edward’s dark, gothic home exemplifies society’s inability to accept differences and non-conformity. Burton’s central message in this long-shot (camerashot) is of Edward, walking along the garden. The environment is filled with creativity and nature. Edward can be seen imagining and interacting with others. It is possible to lose your identity and purpose by conforming. Burton’s masterful use of film technique in Edward Scissorhands allows him to address social issues that today’s audiences can relate to. He also conveys important messages, such as accepting differences and letting go of prejudice.
