Tim Burton is known for his visionary direction behind iconic films like “Edward Scissorhands,” “Beetlejuice,” “The Nightmare Before Christmas” and more. The director is appreciated for his unique and often darkly whimsical cinematic creations.
However, Burton found himself embroiled in controversy and accusations raised after his direction in the series “Wednesday.”
But the question is, what was Tim Burton accused of? Well, we have the answers. Join us as we uncover the whole story behind the racial controversy surrounding the director.
After the premiere of the Netflix series “Wednesday” on 23 November 2022, the viewers complained that the series was exhibiting racial aspects. On X (formerly known as Twitter), fans called out Tim Burton for being a racist and casting all white actors. Additionally, people pointed out that in the series, all the black actors played negative roles, for example, Joy Sunday and Iman Marson. Additionally, during an interview with Bustle News, he claimed: “Things either call for [diversity] or they don’t,” openly showing his ideas on “forced diversity.”
What was Tim Burton Accused Of? Explaining the Racial Controversy
Timothy Walter Burton is an American filmmaker, animator, and artist known for evolving goth culture in Hollywood. Born on August 25, 1958, in Burbank, California, Burton has left an indelible mark on the industry. His work includes visually striking, darkly imaginative, and often Gothic-inspired creations.
Under his visionary direction films like Beetlejuice (1988), Edward Scissorhands (1990), The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993), Ed Wood (1994), Sleepy Hollow (1999), Corpse Bride (2005), Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007), and Dark Shadows (2012) were produced.
He also took part in directing four episodes of the most-watched Netflix series, Wednesday, released in 2022. For his remarkable work, Tim received many honors and rewards, including Academy Awards, BAFTA Awards, Emmy Award, and Golden Globe Award.
We can unanimously agree on the fact that he created some of the best nerve-chilling movies and series of all time. No wonder he is recognized so much for his unique creations. However, he is also recognized as a racist among the netizens.
Over time fans have noticed how Tim’s movie or series cast includes only white people. In fact, in any odd chance he cast any black actor in his movie, he would portray them as villains or bad guys. In his movie, “Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children,” Samuel L. Jackson was the only black actor playing the role of the villain.
During his interview with Bustle News in 2016, Burton presented his views on “forced diversity” while calling it a “myth.” He further claimed that any role that doesn’t present the need for skin color is inherently a white role. He also said,
“Nowadays, people are talking about it more. Things either call for [diversity] or they don’t.”
He further went on replying to Samuel L. Jackson’s verdict, saying,
“I remember back when I was a child watching The Brady Bunch and they started to get all politically correct. Like, OK, let’s have an Asian child and a black. I used to get more offended by that than just…I grew up watching Blaxploitation movies, right? I said, that’s great. I didn’t go like, OK, there should be more white people in these movies.”
Even after years, he is under fire for his racist behavior. After watching the premier of Wednesday, fans and critics posted their views while showing dissatisfaction with the roles given to the black actors. The mean girl, Bianca Barclay (Joy Sunday), and the bully, Lucas Walker (Iman Marson) the only black actors in the series.
People also pointed out how the whole series was filled with white actors, just like Burton’s other works. Nevertheless, Tim’s behavior towards minorities or other races is definitely a bit controversial and questionable.
The internet is divided on the stance of Burton being a racist. Few nit-picked the number of black actors he portrayed in a negative light, while few pointed out that people are just being ridiculously sensitive about everything.
What are your views on Tim Burton’s behavior? Share your views in the comment section.
Source: Bustle News
