Tim Burton on Why He Tries “to Avoid” the Internet

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As a devoted fan of Tim Burton‘s enchanting and eerie filmography, I can’t help but admire the man who crafts such vivid worlds that seem to exist just beyond the veil of reality. Yet, it’s fascinating to learn that this creative genius, who has captivated our imaginations for decades, shuns the very technological advancements that many of us rely on for entertainment and inspiration.

Tim Burton isn’t looking to go down any dark holes on the World Wide Web anytime soon.

Before the debut of his latest exhibition titled “The World of Tim Burton” in London, the renowned director confided to BBC News that “it’s common knowledge that I’m not particularly fond of technology.

Burton shared that when he browses the internet, he often feels overwhelmed and saddened. This worried him as it seemed like a downward spiral. Consequently, he tries to limit his time online because it doesn’t bring him happiness. Burton is sensitive and prone to depression; he can easily slip into a negative mindset just by clicking around.

It can be reasonably expected that the director known for creating timeless films such as Edward Scissorhands, Beetlejuice, Wednesday, Corpse Bride, Alice in Wonderland, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Batman, and more, likely doesn’t rely on online sources for amusement or creative stimulation.

In my downtime, I often find myself engrossed in the simplicity of life’s little pleasures, such as gazing at clouds drifting by or contemplating their shapes. Additionally, I take pride in my unique hobby of maintaining a collection of ten colossal dinosaur models in my backyard, where they stand as a testament to my fascination with prehistoric creatures.

A different innovation that the filmmaker has shown disapproval towards in the past is artificially intelligent systems. Recently, his response was elicited by a BuzzFeed article that utilized AI to depict how Disney films might appear if Tim Burton had been their director.

He explained to The Independent that it was hard to express the sensation it evoked. It seemed similar to what other cultures express when they ask not to be photographed, stating that ‘it feels like you’re stealing a part of their essence or spirit’,” (or more casually: “he told The Independent it was tough to put into words, but it felt like those moments when other cultures say ‘don’t snap my picture because it feels like you’re snatching away their soul’.”)

Burton noted that some of the works were exceptional, but he also expressed concern: “They drain a part of you. They take something from your inner self or spirit; this is quite unsettling, especially when it’s personal. It’s as if a machine strips away your humanity, your soul.

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2024-10-25 01:54