Tim Burton’s films have had a remarkable impact throughout the years. He is renowned for his gothic aesthetics, whimsical narratives, and a predilection for the macabre, Burton's films are enhanced by evocative musical scores that intensify the eerie and otherworldly atmospheres he conjures. Most of his films’ musical scores are composed by Danny Elfman who creates distinctive and evocative musical landscapes that perfectly complement Burton's storytelling. While those scores make up the emotional core of most of his films, Burton also employs a variety of off-kilter and entertaining licensed music throughout his filmography.
1. Beetlejuice
86%
70
7.5
Alec Baldwin
Geena Davis
Jeffrey Jones
Catherine O'Hara
Winona Ryder
Michael Keaton
Glenn Shadix
Sylvia Sidney
Patrice Martinez
Dick Cavett
Robert Goulet
Maree Cheatham
One of the best scenes in Beetlejuice is the dinner that the Deetz family hosts in their new house, which is haunted by ghosts of Adam and Barbara (played by Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis). As the dinner process, Delia (played by Catherine O’Hara) insists on performing a bizarre art piece involving sculptures and strange costumes. In an attempt to reveal the ghosts’ presence to everyone and scare them away, Lydia Deetz (played by Winona Ryder) tells the ghosts to possess the dinner guests and perform a choreographed dance to the song "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)" by Harry Belafonte. This is a standout moment that combines music, comedy, and supernatural elements to create an iconic cinematic experience.
Find the full Beetlejuice soundtrack here.
2. Edward Scissorhands
Johnny Depp
Winona Ryder
Dianne Wiest
Anthony Michael Hall
Kathy Baker
Robert Oliveri
Conchata Ferrell
Caroline Aaron
Dick Anthony Williams
O-Lan Jones
Vincent Price
Alan Arkin
Edward and Kim (played by Johnny Depp and Winona Ryder) are this film's main connection of love. Its love theme “Ice Dance,” by the composer Danny Elfman portrays a powerful visual storytelling and musical composition. The scene where Edward makes an ice sculpture in the shape of an angel symbolizes his desire to express himself. This musical score is important to the film’s narrative because it depicts Kim and Edward's passionate and emotional bond. Their relationship is reflected in Elfman's melody, which moves from a state of curiosity and fear to one of empathy and affection, signifying their ephemeral joy in the face of societal obstacles.
Find the full Edward Scissorhands soundtrack here.
3. Ed Wood
92%707.8Johnny Depp
Martin Landau
Sarah Jessica Parker
Patricia Arquette
Jeffrey Jones
Bill Murray
Lisa Marie
Jim Myers
G. D. Spradlin
Vincent D'Onofrio
Mike Starr
Max Casella
One of the standout tracks on the soundtrack for Ed Wood is "Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)" performed by Doris Day. It has special meaning in the movie since it comes on at a crucial moment when Ed Wood (played by Johnny Depp) experiences a low point in both his personal and professional life. It emphasizes how bittersweet Wood's goals and aspirations are, despite the frequent obstacles and disappointments he faces in his profession as a filmmaker. Ed Wood thinks about his future and the unknown route that lies ahead, thinking back on his unwavering optimism and persistence in spite of his lack of achievement. The soundtrack choice of "Que Sera, Sera" emphasizes the character's fortitude and his idea of enduring hardship, serving as a major motif throughout the movie.
Find the full Ed Wood soundtrack here.
4. Mars Attacks!
Jack Nicholson
Glenn Close
Annette Bening
Pierce Brosnan
Danny DeVito
Martin Short
Sarah Jessica Parker
Michael J. Fox
Rod Steiger
Tom Jones
Lukas Haas
Natalie Portman
A whimsical and vintage feel is added to the film’s portrayal of the alien threat with the theme song "Martian Hop" by The Ran-Dells as the theme tune during multiple sequences featuring the Martian invaders. "Martian Hop's" lively and eccentric melody complements the film's general tone of parody and satire by standing in stark contrast to the chaotic and frequently funny scenarios. Additionally, the song's inclusion highlights Tim Burton's intention to both honor and parody iconic mid-20th-century alien invasion movies. It not only creates a melodic background that enhances the film's retro style, but it also shows the absurdity and humorous aspects of the plot, which revolves on the strange Martian attacks on Earth.
Find the full Mars Attacks! soundtrack here.
5. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Johnny Depp
Freddie Highmore
David Kelly
Helena Bonham Carter
Noah Taylor
Missi Pyle
James Fox
Deep Roy
Christopher Lee
Adam Godley
Franziska Troegner
AnnaSophia Robb
Once again, Elfman composed "The Oompa Loompa Song,” which serves as a whimsical and thematic narrative device. The song punctuates each child's moral misstep during their visit to Willy Wonka's extraordinary chocolate factory. One notable scene featuring the song occurs when Augustus Gloop, a gluttonous child with an insatiable appetite for chocolate, falls into the chocolate river and is subsequently sucked up a pipe. This theme song is instantly memorable due to its bouncy and catchy quality.
Find the full Charlie and the Chocolate Factory soundtrack here.
6. Corpse Bride
84%837.4Johnny Depp
Helena Bonham Carter
Emily Watson
Tracey Ullman
Paul Whitehouse
Joanna Lumley
Albert Finney
Richard E. Grant
Christopher Lee
Michael Gough
Jane Horrocks
Enn Reitel
"According to Plan" composed by Elfman is an important song because it is used in a vital sequence in which Johnny Depp's character, Victor Van Dort, unintentionally becomes engaged to Helena Bonham Carter's character, the Corpse Bride. The song "According to Plan" is significant for its sarcastic and darkly humorous portrayal of the characters' intricate relationships and self-serving motivations. While Victor genuinely grapples with his unintended engagement to the Corpse Bride and worries about her feelings, the Everglots and Barkis gleefully sing of their nefarious schemes falling into place. This song effectively foreshadows the escalating tensions and revelations that propel the drama forward, underscoring themes of deceit, betrayal, and the consequences wrought by greed and ambition. Therefore, Elfman's musical compositions are the key in using music to portray the characters' motivations and feelings.
Find the full Corpse Bride soundtrack here.
7. Alice in Wonderland
Mia Wasikowska
Johnny Depp
Anne Hathaway
Helena Bonham Carter
Crispin Glover
Matt Lucas
Alan Rickman
Stephen Fry
Michael Sheen
Timothy Spall
Marton Csokas
Lindsay Duncan
"Alice's Theme” serves as the main theme of the film. This piece captures the essence of Alice's journey through Wonderland, blending a sense of wonder, adventure, and a hint of mystery. Elfman's use of orchestration, including lush strings and enchanting melodies, enhances the film's magical and otherworldly atmosphere. His score effectively supports Burton's unique visual aesthetic, emphasizing Wonderland's fantastical and surreal elements with orchestral arrangements and thematic ideas.
Find the full Alice in Wonderland soundtrack here.
8. Frankenweenie
Catherine O'Hara
Martin Short
Martin Landau
Charlie Tahan
Atticus Shaffer
Winona Ryder
Robert Capron
James Hiroyuki Liao
Conchata Ferrell
Tom Kenny
Frank Welker
Dee Bradley Baker
During the opening sequence, a montage that showcases Victor's passion for science and his close relationship with Sparky, "Frankenweenie Main Titles" creates an atmosphere for the movie with its creepy yet whimsical melodies, and is one of the score's best sections. Elfman's score effectively conveys the film's tribute to vintage horror movies while incorporating his signature melancholy and whimsical pieces. Elfman masterfully integrates themes of grief, solidarity, and the excitement of scientific discovery throughout the soundtrack, enhancing the storyline and emotional resonance of the movie.
Find the full Frankenweenie soundtrack here.
9. Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children
Eva Green
Asa Butterfield
Samuel L. Jackson
Judi Dench
Rupert Everett
Chris O'Dowd
Allison Janney
Ella Purnell
Terence Stamp
Milo Parker
Cameron King
Finlay MacMillan
Titled after the film itself, "Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children," composed by Mike Higham and Matthew Margeson, stands out as a significant theme song for its ability to encapsulate the mysterious and fantastical essence of the movie. This evocative piece is woven throughout key scenes, highlighting the magical and extraordinary abilities of the peculiar children. With its haunting melody and rich orchestration, the theme evokes a sense of wonder, adventure, and occasionally a touch of darkness, perfectly mirroring the film's tone and atmosphere.
Find the full Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children soundtrack here.
10. Dumbo
Colin Farrell
Michael Keaton
Danny DeVito
Eva Green
Alan Arkin
Nico Parker
Finley Hobbins
Roshan Seth
Deobia Oparei
Joseph Gatt
Miguel Muñoz Segura
Sharon Rooney
"Baby Mine," originally a beloved classic from Disney's animated version, underwent a poignant reimagining for the live-action adaptation of "Dumbo" (2019), with the composition handled by Danny Elfman. This song holds significant weight as it beautifully underscores the tender bond between Dumbo and his mother, Mrs. Jumbo, encapsulating the emotional core of the film. Its pivotal moment occurs when Mrs. Jumbo lovingly cradles Dumbo in her trunk through the bars of their circus cage, accompanied by this touching melody. The 2019 rendition, featuring a captivating performance by Aurora, retains the timeless lyrics and melody, enhancing the film's emotional impact and resonating deeply with audiences.
Find the full Dumbo soundtrack here.