22 Best Movies Like 'Corpse Bride'

Lila Sommers

Lila Sommers

Movies Like 'Corpse Bride'

Diving into the whimsical world of "Corpse Bride" is like wrapping oneself in a dark, yet comforting, cinematic blanket. Its unique blend of gothic charm, romance, and musical brilliance has left many of us yearning for more films that evoke similar feelings.

If you have found yourself enchanted by Tim Burton's masterpiece and are on the hunt for movies that resonate with the same tones, you're in for a treat.

In this blog post, we'll journey together through a curated list of 22 films that echo the magic of "Corpse Bride." Whether you're a die-hard Burton fan or simply a lover of all things beautifully eerie, these selections promise to captivate and transport you to otherworldly realms.

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Rotten tomatoes95%
iMBD98
Metacritic8.2

Set against the backdrop of post-Civil War Spain, "Pan's Labyrinth" is a haunting tale of a young girl named Ofelia who discovers a mysterious labyrinth. Director Guillermo del Toro masterfully weaves a narrative that blurs the lines between fantasy and reality. This film is not just a visual masterpiece, but also a poignant commentary on innocence and brutality. Its intricate storytelling and breathtaking visuals have solidified it as one of the most revered films of the 21st century.

CAST

Ivana Baquero

Ivana Baquero

Maribel Verdú

Maribel Verdú

Sergi López

Sergi López

Doug Jones

Doug Jones

Ariadna Gil

Ariadna Gil

Álex Angulo

Álex Angulo

Roger Casamajor

Roger Casamajor

Manolo Solo

Manolo Solo

César Vea

César Vea

Iván Massagué

Iván Massagué

Directed by Guillermo del Toro
Image
Rotten tomatoes95%
iMBD82
Metacritic7.9

Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, stumbles upon Christmas Town and becomes enamored with its joyous festivities. Tim Burton's iconic stop-motion animation is a delightful blend of spookiness and holiday cheer. Celebrated for its unique style and memorable soundtrack, this film has become a timeless classic, enchanting audiences with its dark charm and imaginative world-building.

CAST

Chris Sarandon

Chris Sarandon

Catherine O'Hara

Catherine O'Hara

William Hickey

William Hickey

Glenn Shadix

Glenn Shadix

Paul Reubens

Paul Reubens

Ken Page

Ken Page

Edward Ivory

Kerry Katz

Carmen Twillie

Carmen Twillie

Directed by Henry Selick
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Rotten tomatoes90%
iMBD80
Metacritic7.7

Coraline, feeling neglected by her parents, discovers an alternate world that seems perfect, but hides dark secrets. Directed by Henry Selick and based on Neil Gaiman's novel, "Coraline" is a visually stunning and deeply unsettling exploration of identity and desire. Its meticulous stop-motion animation and compelling narrative make it a standout, offering a chilling yet enchanting experience that resonates with both kids and adults.

CAST

Dakota Fanning

Dakota Fanning

Teri Hatcher

Teri Hatcher

Jennifer Saunders

Jennifer Saunders

Dawn French

Dawn French

Keith David

Keith David

Ian McShane

Ian McShane

John Hodgman

John Hodgman

Robert Bailey Jr.

Robert Bailey Jr.

Aankha Neal

Hannah Kaiser

Directed by Henry Selick

2 degrees of seperation (similar to Coraline)

The Nightmare Before Christmas
Alice in Wonderland
Pan's Labyrinth
Edward Scissorhands
The Addams Family
Labyrinth
Beetlejuice
Corpse Bride
Big Fish
Stardust
The Witches
The Secret of NIMH
Hugo
Matilda
ParaNorman
Where the Wild Things Are
Dark City
Monster House
Kubo and the Two Strings
A Monster Calls
The Boxtrolls
Song of the Sea
The Book of Life
The Fall
The Secret of Kells
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Rotten tomatoes89%
iMBD74
Metacritic7.9

A gentle man with scissors for hands, Edward is brought into a suburban community, leading to both wonder and conflict. Tim Burton's "Edward Scissorhands" is a poignant tale of love, acceptance, and the price of uniqueness. With Johnny Depp's memorable performance and a heart-touching narrative, the film stands as a testament to Burton's ability to craft stories that are both visually arresting and emotionally profound.

CAST

Johnny Depp

Johnny Depp

Winona Ryder

Winona Ryder

Dianne Wiest

Dianne Wiest

Alan Arkin

Alan Arkin

Anthony Michael Hall

Anthony Michael Hall

Vincent Price

Vincent Price

Kathy Baker

Kathy Baker

Robert Oliveri

Robert Oliveri

Conchata Ferrell

Conchata Ferrell

Caroline Aaron

Caroline Aaron

Directed by Tim Burton
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Rotten tomatoes86%
iMBD70
Metacritic7.5

In Tim Burton's iconic "Beetlejuice," a recently-deceased couple enlists the mischievous spirit Beetlejuice to evict the new living residents from their beloved home. This dark comedy is a masterclass in Burton's signature blend of the macabre and the humorous. With its imaginative set designs, memorable characters, and Michael Keaton's unforgettable performance as the titular character, "Beetlejuice" stands as a testament to the enduring quality of 80s cinema, making it a must-watch for fans of quirky, offbeat films.

CAST

Alec Baldwin

Alec Baldwin

Geena Davis

Geena Davis

Jeffrey Jones

Jeffrey Jones

Catherine O'Hara

Catherine O'Hara

Winona Ryder

Winona Ryder

Michael Keaton

Michael Keaton

Glenn Shadix

Glenn Shadix

Sylvia Sidney

Sylvia Sidney

Patrice Martinez

Patrice Martinez

Dick Cavett

Dick Cavett

Directed by Tim Burton
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Rotten tomatoes97%
iMBD84
Metacritic7.7

"Kubo and the Two Strings" is a visually stunning stop-motion adventure that follows young Kubo as he embarks on a quest to retrieve a magical suit of armor to confront vengeful spirits. Laika Studios showcases its unparalleled craftsmanship in this film, weaving a tale rich in mythology, emotion, and breathtaking animation. The movie's intricate details and compelling narrative make it a modern classic in the realm of animated films.

CAST

Art Parkinson

Art Parkinson

Charlize Theron

Charlize Theron

Brenda Vaccaro

Brenda Vaccaro

Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa

Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa

Meyrick Murphy

Meyrick Murphy

George Takei

George Takei

Rooney Mara

Rooney Mara

Ralph Fiennes

Ralph Fiennes

Matthew McConaughey

Matthew McConaughey

Minae Noji

Minae Noji

Directed by Travis Knight
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Rotten tomatoes86%
iMBD76
Metacritic7.4

In "A Monster Calls," a young boy named Conor grapples with his mother's terminal illness and school bullies, finding solace in a towering tree monster who shares three tales with him. This poignant film masterfully blends reality with fantasy, offering a heart-wrenching exploration of grief and acceptance. With its compelling storytelling, stellar performances, and visually captivating animation sequences, the movie stands as a beautifully crafted piece that resonates deeply with audiences.

CAST

Lewis MacDougall

Lewis MacDougall

Sigourney Weaver

Sigourney Weaver

Felicity Jones

Felicity Jones

Toby Kebbell

Toby Kebbell

Ben Moor

Ben Moor

James Melville

James Melville

Oliver Steer

Dominic Boyle

Dominic Boyle

Jennifer Lim

Jennifer Lim

Max Gabbay

Max Gabbay

Directed by J. A. Bayona
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Rotten tomatoes89%
iMBD72
Metacritic7

"ParaNorman" introduces us to Norman, a boy with the unique ability to communicate with ghosts. When his town faces a zombie uprising, it's up to Norman to save the day. Laika Studios delivers yet another animated gem, blending humor with heart in a tale of bravery and acceptance. The film's innovative animation, combined with its engaging storyline and endearing characters, solidifies "ParaNorman" as a standout in the world of animated horror-comedies.

CAST

Kodi Smit-McPhee

Kodi Smit-McPhee

Tucker Albrizzi

Tucker Albrizzi

Jodelle Ferland

Jodelle Ferland

Anna Kendrick

Anna Kendrick

Casey Affleck

Casey Affleck

Leslie Mann

Leslie Mann

Jeff Garlin

Jeff Garlin

Christopher Mintz-Plasse

Christopher Mintz-Plasse

John Goodman

John Goodman

Elaine Stritch

Elaine Stritch

Directed by Sam Fell
Image
Rotten tomatoes83%
iMBD67
Metacritic7.2

Delving into the vibrant tapestry of Mexican folklore, "The Book of Life" is a visual feast that celebrates love, family, and tradition. The story follows Manolo, a young man torn between fulfilling his family's expectations and following his heart. As he embarks on an extraordinary journey spanning three fantastical worlds, he must face his greatest fears. Directed by Jorge R. Gutierrez, this film stands out for its unique animation style and heartfelt narrative, making it a must-watch for those who appreciate both visual and storytelling excellence.

CAST

Diego Luna

Diego Luna

Channing Tatum

Channing Tatum

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldaña

Christina Applegate

Christina Applegate

Eugenio Derbez

Eugenio Derbez

Cheech Marin

Cheech Marin

Gabriel Iglesias

Gabriel Iglesias

Ron Perlman

Ron Perlman

Kate del Castillo

Kate del Castillo

Ana de la Reguera

Ana de la Reguera

Directed by Jorge R. Gutierrez
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Rotten tomatoes88%
iMBD74
Metacritic6.9

A touching homage to classic horror films, "Frankenweenie" is Tim Burton at his imaginative best. When young Victor's beloved pet dog Sparky dies, he turns to science to bring him back to life, leading to unexpected and humorous consequences. Rendered in evocative black and white, this stop-motion animated film is both a testament to Burton's distinctive style and a poignant exploration of love, loss, and acceptance.

CAST

Charlie Tahan

Charlie Tahan

Catherine O'Hara

Catherine O'Hara

Martin Short

Martin Short

Martin Landau

Martin Landau

Atticus Shaffer

Atticus Shaffer

Winona Ryder

Winona Ryder

Robert Capron

Robert Capron

James Hiroyuki Liao

James Hiroyuki Liao

Conchata Ferrell

Conchata Ferrell

Tom Kenny

Tom Kenny

Directed by Tim Burton
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Rotten tomatoes91%
iMBD78
Metacritic6.7

Adapted from Roald Dahl's beloved novel, "James and the Giant Peach" is a delightful blend of live-action and stop-motion animation. James, an orphaned boy living with his cruel aunts, discovers a magical peach that leads him on a fantastical journey with a group of insect friends. Directed by Henry Selick, the film captures the whimsy and wonder of Dahl's world, offering a timeless tale that's both visually enchanting and narratively rich.

CAST

Paul Terry

Paul Terry

Miriam Margolyes

Miriam Margolyes

Joanna Lumley

Joanna Lumley

Pete Postlethwaite

Pete Postlethwaite

Simon Callow

Simon Callow

Richard Dreyfuss

Richard Dreyfuss

Jane Leeves

Jane Leeves

Susan Sarandon

Susan Sarandon

David Thewlis

David Thewlis

Steven Culp

Steven Culp

Directed by Henry Selick
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Rotten tomatoes35%
iMBD55
Metacritic6.2

A quirky blend of gothic horror and dark comedy, "Dark Shadows" showcases Tim Burton's knack for the eccentric. The film follows Barnabas Collins, a vampire who awakens in the 1970s after being buried alive in the 18th century, as he tries to restore his family's tarnished legacy. With Johnny Depp's charismatic performance and a star-studded cast, the movie is a testament to Burton's ability to craft visually stunning films that dance on the edge of the macabre and the humorous.

CAST

Johnny Depp

Johnny Depp

Michelle Pfeiffer

Michelle Pfeiffer

Helena Bonham Carter

Helena Bonham Carter

Eva Green

Eva Green

Jackie Earle Haley

Jackie Earle Haley

Jonny Lee Miller

Jonny Lee Miller

Chloë Grace Moretz

Chloë Grace Moretz

Bella Heathcote

Bella Heathcote

Gulliver McGrath

Gulliver McGrath

Ray Shirley

Ray Shirley

Directed by Tim Burton
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Rotten tomatoes45%
iMBD47
Metacritic7

Nestled away from human eyes, Dracula's lavish "Hotel Transylvania" is a sanctuary for monsters seeking a break from human interference. But chaos ensues when a human stumbles into the hotel and falls for Dracula's daughter. This animated comedy, directed by Genndy Tartakovsky, is a delightful blend of humor and heart. Its vibrant animation and star-studded voice cast, including Adam Sandler and Selena Gomez, make it a standout, offering both kids and adults a fresh take on classic monsters.

CAST

Adam Sandler

Adam Sandler

Andy Samberg

Andy Samberg

Selena Gomez

Selena Gomez

Kevin James

Kevin James

Fran Drescher

Fran Drescher

Steve Buscemi

Steve Buscemi

Molly Shannon

Molly Shannon

David Spade

David Spade

Cee Lo Green

Cee Lo Green

Jon Lovitz

Jon Lovitz

Directed by Genndy Tartakovsky
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Rotten tomatoes86%
iMBD83
Metacritic7.3

In the grimy streets of Victorian London, Benjamin Barker returns as Sweeney Todd, seeking vengeance against those who wronged him. With the help of Mrs. Lovett, he serves up a macabre brand of justice. Directed by Tim Burton and starring Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter, this musical thriller is a masterclass in storytelling. Its darkly beautiful visuals, combined with Stephen Sondheim's haunting score, create a cinematic experience that's both chilling and enthralling.

CAST

Johnny Depp

Johnny Depp

Helena Bonham Carter

Helena Bonham Carter

Alan Rickman

Alan Rickman

Timothy Spall

Timothy Spall

Sacha Baron Cohen

Sacha Baron Cohen

Laura Michelle Kelly

Laura Michelle Kelly

Jamie Campbell Bower

Jamie Campbell Bower

Jayne Wisener

Jayne Wisener

Ed Sanders

Ed Sanders

Buck Holland

Buck Holland

Directed by Tim Burton
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The eccentric and macabre Addams family finds their world turned upside down when a stranger claims to be their long-lost relative. Directed by Barry Sonnenfeld, this film brilliantly captures the essence of Charles Addams' iconic characters. With a perfect blend of dark humor and genuine family dynamics, it boasts standout performances, especially from Anjelica Huston and Raul Julia. This film is a testament to the timeless appeal of the Addams clan, offering a delightful mix of wit and weirdness.

CAST

Raúl Juliá

Raúl Juliá

Anjelica Huston

Anjelica Huston

Christopher Lloyd

Christopher Lloyd

Christina Ricci

Christina Ricci

Carel Struycken

Carel Struycken

Dan Hedaya

Dan Hedaya

Jimmy Workman

Jimmy Workman

Elizabeth Wilson

Elizabeth Wilson

Dana Ivey

Dana Ivey

Judith Malina

Judith Malina

Directed by Barry Sonnenfeld

More Hidden Gems Like 'Corpse Bride'

In the vast universe of cinema, there are gems that, for one reason or another, don't always shine as brightly in the mainstream spotlight. These underrated movies, often overshadowed by blockbuster giants, possess a unique charm and depth that deserve recognition. In this section, we'll delve into films that, while not always household names, have garnered critical acclaim or developed a cult following.

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Rotten tomatoes93%
iMBD76
Metacritic7.5

Venturing into the realm of animation, "The Secret of NIMH" is a testament to Don Bluth's unparalleled storytelling prowess. The film follows Mrs. Brisby, a field mouse, as she seeks the help of genetically modified rats to save her family from a looming threat. With its intricate animation and a narrative that resonates with both kids and adults, this film stands as a beacon of animation excellence from the early '80s. Its dark undertones and rich lore make it a timeless classic, deserving of more recognition.

CAST

Derek Jacobi

Derek Jacobi

Elizabeth Hartman

Elizabeth Hartman

Arthur Malet

Arthur Malet

Dom DeLuise

Dom DeLuise

Hermione Baddeley

Hermione Baddeley

Shannen Doherty

Shannen Doherty

Wil Wheaton

Wil Wheaton

Jodi Hicks

Ian Fried

John Carradine

John Carradine

Directed by Don Bluth
Image
Rotten tomatoes77%
iMBD70
Metacritic7.3

A mesmerizing blend of fantasy and emotion, "The Last Unicorn" chronicles the journey of a unicorn who believes she's the last of her kind. As she searches for her lost brethren, viewers are treated to a visual and auditory feast. The film, though not as mainstream as some '80s classics, is a testament to the power of animation to convey deep emotion and intricate storytelling. Its ethereal soundtrack and poignant narrative make it a hidden gem.

CAST

Alan Arkin

Alan Arkin

Jeff Bridges

Jeff Bridges

Mia Farrow

Mia Farrow

Tammy Grimes

Tammy Grimes

Robert Klein

Robert Klein

Angela Lansbury

Angela Lansbury

Christopher Lee

Christopher Lee

Keenan Wynn

Keenan Wynn

Paul Frees

Paul Frees

René Auberjonois

René Auberjonois

Directed by Jules Bass
Image
Rotten tomatoes99%
iMBD85
Metacritic8

Tomm Moore's "Song of the Sea" is a visual masterpiece, weaving Irish folklore into a contemporary tale. The story revolves around Ben and his little sister Saoirse, a selkie, as they embark on a mission to save the spirit world. The film's hand-drawn animation is a refreshing divergence from mainstream CGI, capturing the raw beauty of its narrative. Critically acclaimed for its artistry and heartwarming story, it's a modern classic that touches the soul.

CAST

David Rawle

David Rawle

Lucy O'Connell

Lucy O'Connell

Brendan Gleeson

Brendan Gleeson

Fionnula Flanagan

Fionnula Flanagan

Pat Shortt

Pat Shortt

Jon Kenny

Jon Kenny

Lisa Hannigan

Lisa Hannigan

Colm Ó'Snodaigh

Liam Hourican

Liam Hourican

Kevin Swierszcz

Directed by Tomm Moore
Image
Rotten tomatoes94%
iMBD91
Metacritic7.7

A unique cinematic experience, "The Triplets of Belleville" is a testament to the boundless possibilities of animation. The film follows Madame Souza as she, with the help of three aging singers, embarks on a quest to rescue her grandson. With minimal dialogue, the movie relies heavily on its quirky visuals and captivating music to tell its story. It's a brilliant showcase of Sylvain Chomet's distinctive style, making it a must-watch for those seeking a blend of humor, adventure, and sheer creativity.

CAST

Suzy Falk

Suzy Falk

Lina Boudreau

Betty Bonifassi

Betty Bonifassi

Michèle Caucheteux

Jean-Claude Donda

Jean-Claude Donda

Mari-Lou Gauthier

Charles Linton

Monica Viegas

Michel Robin

Michel Robin

Directed by Sylvain Chomet
Image
Rotten tomatoes90%
iMBD82
Metacritic7.5

Set against the backdrop of a changing world, "The Illusionist" is a poignant tale of a struggling magician who forms an unexpected bond with a young woman. As they navigate the challenges of life, their relationship unveils deep emotions and unspoken desires. Director Sylvain Chomet's unique animation style and storytelling prowess shine brightly in this film. Critics and audiences alike have praised its delicate narrative and evocative visuals, making it a cinematic experience that's both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.

CAST

Jean-Claude Donda

Jean-Claude Donda

Eilidh Rankin

Eilidh Rankin

Didier Gustin

Didier Gustin

Jil Aigrot

Jil Aigrot

Jacques Tati

Jacques Tati

Directed by Sylvain Chomet
Image
Rotten tomatoes95%
Metacritic8.1

A heartwarming exploration of friendship, "Mary and Max" chronicles the pen-pal relationship between a lonely Australian girl and a New Yorker with Asperger's Syndrome. Through their letters, they share life's ups and downs, forging a bond that transcends age and distance. This claymation masterpiece by Adam Elliot is not just a visual treat but also a profound commentary on human connections. Its mature themes, combined with dark humor, have earned it high praise for its depth and originality.

CAST

Toni Collette

Toni Collette

Philip Seymour Hoffman

Philip Seymour Hoffman

Eric Bana

Eric Bana

Barry Humphries

Barry Humphries

Bethany Whitmore

Bethany Whitmore

Renée Geyer

Renée Geyer

Ian 'Molly' Meldrum

Ian 'Molly' Meldrum

Julie Forsyth

John Flaus

John Flaus

Christopher Massey

Christopher Massey

Directed by Adam Elliot
Image
Rotten tomatoes97%
iMBD91
Metacritic8

A haunting journey into memory and war, "Waltz with Bashir" follows director Ari Folman's attempt to recall his experiences as an Israeli soldier during the 1982 Lebanon War. This animated documentary blurs the lines between reality and dreams, offering a deeply personal reflection on trauma and history. The film's innovative approach to storytelling and its striking visuals have been lauded by critics, establishing it as a groundbreaking piece in the realm of animated documentaries. Its powerful narrative and artistic brilliance make it a must-watch for cinephiles.

CAST

Mickey Leon

Mickey Leon

Yehezkel Lazarov

Yehezkel Lazarov

Ronny Dayag

Shmuel Frenkel

Zahava Solomon

Ron Ben-Yishai

Dror Harazi

Directed by Ari Folman

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Lila Sommers

About Lila Sommers

Lila is your media maven with a passion for the extraordinary! Spot her at the local bookstore or crafting her own stories on lazy Sunday afternoons. From indie flicks to hidden gem tracks, Lila's knack for weaving words and tunes is unmatched, making her your ultimate companion in the exciting world of media and entertainment.

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