Tim Burton's 2003 fantasy drama, Big Fish, is now available to stream for free on Tubi as of August 1. Often overshadowed by more prominent films in Burton's oeuvre like Beetlejuice and Edward Scissorhands, Big Fish is considered by many critics to be one of the director's finest works.
The film centers on Will Bloom, played by Billy Crudup, who seeks to reconnect with his dying father, Edward Bloom, portrayed by Albert Finney. The narrative unfolds through a series of flashbacks, detailing the extraordinary and fantastical adventures of a young Edward Bloom, brought to life by Ewan McGregor. These stories, which include encounters with a giant and a seven-foot catfish, are met with skepticism by his son, who longs to understand the man behind the tales before it is too late.
Both Ewan McGregor and Albert Finney deliver charming performances that convincingly embody the same character across different life stages. McGregor's portrayal of the younger Edward is that of a kind, confident dreamer, while Finney captures the essence of an aging storyteller, akin to a favorite uncle. The duality of their performances effectively illustrates a captivating character at pivotal moments in his life. This casting was particularly notable for McGregor, who was at a career high in 2003, having recently starred in the Star Wars prequels and Moulin Rouge.
The pacing of Big Fish allows audiences to become invested in both versions of Edward Bloom. The film's structure relies heavily on Edward's fanciful tales, which are interwoven with his present-day reality. The soundtrack complements the whimsical tone, featuring classic songs from artists like Elvis Presley and Buddy Holly. The overall feel has been compared to a blend of Tim Burton's sensibilities with the adventurous spirit of James Gunn.
Despite its critical acclaim, Big Fish is frequently forgotten in discussions of Tim Burton's directorial work. This may be attributed to its departure from his signature gothic aesthetic. The film employs a bright color palette and features a protagonist who is charismatic and popular, a stark contrast to the eccentric characters often found in Burton's other films. Its release also came during a period when Burton was navigating remakes and studio projects, potentially contributing to its lower profile.
Regardless of the reasons for its neglect, Big Fish remains a joyous cinematic experience. The film culminates in a life-affirming ending that recontextualizes the entire narrative, offering a poignant reflection on storytelling and familial relationships. The movie is currently available to stream on Tubi.