Tim Burton's 1991 film titled, Edward
Scissorhands,
depicts suburban life in Florida. At first, we are drawn into a
picture-perfect image of mowed lawns, pastel colored homes, and sprinkler
systems. There is an uncanny serenity in the air of the community, about
to be shattered by the presence of a guest. Edward, the invention of a
mad scientist, is rescued from his dreary castle on the hill by the Avon
lady, Peg Boggs. She welcomes him into her suburban home. Immediately,
taking advantage of his need for acceptance and naivete
, the culture consumes him. Suburbia attempts to make him "one of
them." After numerous successes and mishaps, Edward Scissorhands'
differences inevitably overwhelm the community. He is chased out of the
suburban neighborhood by once-coddling neighbors, now demanding "death to
the freak." Finally, back at the run-down castle, Kim, the daughter of
his adoptive family, professes her love for Edward who solemnly awaits
the hostile crowd. She swears to her neighbors that he is dead, gripping
a "scissorhand" as proof for the blood-hungry crowd. They are appeased;
the norm resumes and diversity is evicted.
Film Summary | Themes and Interpretations | Female Roles |
Male Roles | Diversity Averse | Final Thoughts |