Big Fish: Tim Burton's Forgotten Masterpiece, Now Free on Tubi

Tim Burton's film Big Fish (2003) is now available to stream for free on Tubi, an ad-supported video-on-demand platform. This offers a chance to revisit one of Burton's works that often goes overlooked, even though it is considered one of the best films of his career.

Unlike Burton's iconic films such as Beetlejuice, Edward Scissorhands, or Batman, Big Fish is rarely mentioned in discussions of the director's masterpieces. Yet the film offers a warmer, more personal approach, far from the gothic aesthetic usually associated with Burton's work.

Big Fish tells the story of Will Bloom (Billy Crudup), who tries to reconnect with his father, Edward Bloom (Albert Finney), who is seriously ill. The story is largely told through flashbacks of the adventures of young Edward (Ewan McGregor), who claims to have met an 11-foot giant, conjoined-twin singers, and caught a giant catfish. Will, skeptical of his father's stories, struggles to get to know his father before it is too late.

The main appeal of Big Fish lies in the charisma of its cast. Ewan McGregor plays young Edward with genuine charm, while Albert Finney brings to life an older Edward who is as warm as a favorite uncle. The combination of the two brings Edward's character to life from youth to the end of his days, even though the two do not physically resemble each other.

"If I had to describe Big Fish in one word, I would say 'charming'. Much of that feeling comes from the natural charisma of the two actors who play Edward Bloom."

The film's deft plotting and captivating soundtrack—featuring songs such as "All Shook Up" by Elvis Presley and "Everyday" by Buddy Holly—make Big Fish feel like a Tim Burton work with a James Gunn touch. The film also leaves a deep impression with an ending that shifts perspective and touches the heart.

Even so, Big Fish is often overlooked because it does not display Burton's signature dark and eccentric style. The film was released between two less-liked remakes, Planet of the Apes and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and before Burton became involved in a number of Disney projects considered less successful. As a result, Big Fish was overshadowed by Burton's other works.

For Indonesian viewers, the availability of Big Fish on Tubi could be an alternative for quality viewing at no cost. Free streaming platforms like Tubi do not officially operate in Indonesia, but access can be gained through a VPN. This is also an opportunity to explore Burton's more personal and emotional work, different from his more famous films.

Looking ahead, will lesser-known Tim Burton films like Big Fish receive more attention from global audiences? As more streaming platforms offer classic content for free, the opportunity to rediscover hidden works becomes ever more open.