Tim Burton’s 1990 film Edward Scissorhands is a gothic fairy tale about an artificial man named Edward, who has scissors for hands. Created by an eccentric inventor, Edward is discovered and taken in by a suburban family. The film blends dark fantasy with a poignant narrative , exploring themes of isolation, acceptance, and the human condition. 🌹✨
Symbolism
Movie Scene Device Example Edward’s Scissorhands Edward’s scissors symbolize his inability to connect with others. The Cookie-Cutter Suburbia The uniformity of the neighborhood symbolizes societal conformity.
Foreshadowing
Movie Scene Device Example The Inventor’s Death The inventor’s unfinished work foreshadows Edward’s incomplete integration into society. Peg’s Initial Visit to the Mansion Peg’s discovery of Edward foreshadows the impact he will have on the community.
Irony
Movie Scene Device Example Edward’s Gentle Nature vs. His Hands Despite his dangerous-looking hands, Edward is gentle and kind. The Community’s Initial Acceptance The community first accepts Edward but later rejects him out of fear.
Metaphor
Movie Scene Device Example Edward as an Artist Edward’s topiary and ice sculptures metaphorically represent his suppressed creativity. The Mansion on the Hill The mansion represents Edward’s isolation from the world.
Imagery
Movie Scene Device Example The Gothic Mansion The detailed description of the mansion creates a dark, eerie atmosphere . The Bright, Colorful Suburbia The vibrant colors of the suburb contrast sharply with Edward’s dark world.
Allusion
Movie Scene Device Example Edward’s Creation Alludes to Frankenstein’s monster. The Inventor’s Workshop References to classic gothic literature and art.
Juxtaposition
Movie Scene Device Example Edward’s Gothic Mansion vs. Suburbia The stark contrast highlights the difference between Edward’s world and the suburban life. Kim’s Beauty vs. Edward’s Appearance The visual and emotional contrast emphasizes their unlikely connection.
Allegory
Movie Scene Device Example Edward’s Integration into Society Represents the struggle of the misunderstood outsider. The Christmas Scene Allegorically represents purity and transformation.
Motif
Movie Scene Device Example Scissors and Sharp Objects Recurrent motif highlighting Edward’s uniqueness and danger. Snow Symbolizes Edward’s impact on the town and his emotional state.
Hyperbole
Movie Scene Device Example The Community’s Reaction to Edward The exaggerated fear and gossip emphasize societal tendencies to ostracize the different. Edward’s Haircuts and Topiaries The over-the-top creations underscore his artistic abilities.
Edward
Literary Device Explanation Symbolism Edward’s scissors represent his inability to physically connect with others, symbolizing emotional isolation. Metaphor Edward is a metaphor for the misunderstood artist, whose creations are beautiful but who is personally misunderstood.
Peg Boggs
Literary Device Explanation Irony Peg’s kind nature contrasts with the fear and prejudice of her neighbors. Juxtaposition Her bright, cheerful personality is juxtaposed with Edward’s dark and mysterious demeanor.
Kim Boggs
Literary Device Explanation Juxtaposition Kim’s conventional beauty and normalcy contrast with Edward’s strange appearance, highlighting their emotional connection. Symbolism Kim represents innocence and the potential for understanding beyond appearances.
The Inventor
Literary Device Explanation Allusion The Inventor is an allusion to the archetypal mad scientist, similar to Dr. Frankenstein. Foreshadowing His death foreshadows Edward’s eventual rejection by society.
Character Dynamics
Literary Device Explanation Irony The ironic shift from the community’s initial acceptance to eventual rejection of Edward drives the narrative . Metaphor Relationships between characters like Edward and Kim metaphorically represent the broader theme of acceptance and understanding.
Isolation and Acceptance
Literary Device Explanation Symbolism Edward’s scissorhands symbolize his physical and emotional isolation. Juxtaposition The contrast between Edward’s mansion and the suburb underscores his separation from society.
The Beauty of Imperfection
Literary Device Explanation Metaphor Edward’s unique creations metaphorically represent the beauty found in imperfection. Irony Edward’s gentle nature contrasts with his frightening appearance, highlighting the theme of inner beauty.
Societal Conformity
Literary Device Explanation Allegory The suburb’s uniformity and the community’s reaction to Edward allegorically critique societal pressure to conform. Hyperbole The exaggerated reactions of the townspeople emphasize the absurdity of societal norms.
Literary Device Technique Explanation Symbolism Visual Composition The contrast between the gothic mansion and the pastel suburb symbolizes Edward’s isolation. Imagery Color Palette The use of vibrant colors in the suburb versus the dark tones of the mansion creates a visual representation of Edward’s internal conflict . Metaphor Costume Design Edward’s costume, especially his scissorhands, visually represents his outsider status and artistic uniqueness. Juxtaposition Lighting The lighting in Edward’s mansion versus the suburb creates a stark contrast , highlighting his separation from society.
Scene 1: Edward’s Introduction to the Community
Link: Edward Meets the Neighbors
Breakdown:
Literary Devices: Irony , Symbolism Cinematic Techniques: Bright, cheerful lighting contrasts with Edward’s dark appearance, symbolizing his alienation.
Scene 2: The Ice Dance
Link: The Ice Dance
Breakdown:
Literary Devices: Imagery , Metaphor Cinematic Techniques: The use of slow-motion and ethereal music enhances the dreamlike quality, metaphorically representing the beauty of Edward’s soul.
Scene 3: The Final Confrontation
Link: The Final Confrontation
Breakdown:
Literary Devices: Allegory , Juxtaposition Cinematic Techniques: Dark, intense lighting and dramatic music emphasize the climax , highlighting the allegorical battle between good and evil.
Interactive Quiz:
What literary device is primarily used in Edward’s character design?
How does the color palette of the suburb contribute to the film’s themes?
A) It represents the vibrant life of the community.
B) It contrasts with Edward’s world to symbolize his isolation.
C) It highlights the societal conformity of the townspeople.
What does the ice dance scene metaphorically represent?
A) The fleeting nature of beauty.
B) Edward’s artistic expression.
C) The coldness of the community.
How does the film use juxtaposition to highlight Edward’s differences?
A) By contrasting his dark mansion with the bright suburb.
B) By showing his kindness despite his scary appearance.
C) Both A and B.
