Legendary Filmmaker Tim Burton Honored
Tim Burton, the legendary filmmaker known for his iconic films such as “Edward Scissorhands,” “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” “Beetlejuice,” and the 2022 television series “Wednesday,” received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Tuesday. The recognition was a significant moment for Burton, who described it as an “honor” and shared the personal significance of the star’s location.
A Meaningful Location
Burton’s star is located in front of the Larry Edmunds Bookshop, an iconic Hollywood store that holds deep sentimental value for him. Reflecting on his childhood, Burton recounted his early visits to the area:
“As a child, I used to come down here from Burbank on the bus, no adults. In fact, I was young enough to think these things were actually gravestones when I first came here,” he said. “I realized John Wayne wasn’t buried under that or other people.”
Burton continued, “I used to come down here and visit the Larry Edmunds bookshop and come here, and when I found out it was here, I almost started crying because I’ve been coming here ever since I was a little child, and the store hasn’t changed at all. So for me, it’s such an honor to have a star but also to have it right here in front of this incredible shop, museum, toy shop, everything.”
Friends and Colleagues Celebrate Burton
The ceremony was attended by some of Burton’s closest friends and colleagues, including actors Danny DeVito and Deep Roy, actress Monica Bellucci, and costume designer Colleen Atwood. The event was marked by heartfelt tributes, particularly from Winona Ryder and Michael Keaton, both of whom have worked closely with Burton over the years.
Winona Ryder’s Tribute
Winona Ryder, who starred in Burton’s 1988 film “Beetlejuice” and the upcoming sequel “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” honored him with a touching speech:
“Giving him this star is sort of like pinning a medal on Mount Everest for being the tallest mountain,” Ryder said. She praised Burton’s unique understanding of the human heart, particularly his empathy for the “misunderstood, the strange and unusual.”
“He doesn’t just understand them; he celebrates them,” Ryder continued. “Whether outcasts, oddballs, terrifying or hilarious, he gives them depth, humor, and always a certain gallantry, and he gives them their dignity. His heroes are the very outcasts that he loves.”
Michael Keaton’s Memories
Michael Keaton, who starred in several of Burton’s films, including “Dumbo,” “Batman,” and “Batman Returns,” also shared his memories of working with the director. Keaton recalled his first experiences on the set of “Beetlejuice,” saying,
“It’s just a joy,” Keaton said about working with Burton. He vividly remembered his first day on the “Beetlejuice” set, expressing initial nervousness but quickly feeling comfortable under Burton’s guidance.
“First of all, you walk in, and you go, ‘shrunken heads, OK.’ And then you see these remarkable, beautiful sets, and it didn’t take me very long just to feel really, really comfortable. And it’s been like that ever since,” Keaton shared. “It just feels good to be around art. And to be a part of it is rare, and it’s an experience I get to have every time I’m on a set with Tim.”
A Celebration of Tim Burton’s Legacy
The ceremony was not just a recognition of Burton’s contributions to cinema but also a celebration of his impact on the film industry and his ability to connect with audiences through his unique vision. Ryder summed it up perfectly when she said
To work with Tim is like being invited to wander through his heart and imagination. It’s the ultimate cathedral and one of my most cherished and sacred places to be, and I am eternally grateful for the time that I spent there.”
Burton’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame stands as a testament to his extraordinary career, his creative genius, and his enduring influence on both his peers and the countless fans who continue to be inspired by his work.
