According to a fan theory, Edward Scissorhands is actually a sequel to one of Tim Burton’s more controversial movies. Burton has come to have one of Hollywood’s most recognizable styles, with his films widely cherished for their creative stories and beloved characters. His uncompromising storytelling is sometimes divisive, but the resulting narratives make it all worthwhile. Edward Scissorhands is hailed as a classic 1990s Gothic romance, earning critical acclaim by exploring the perspective of one of Hollywood’s most compelling monster movie protagonists. However, a more significant detail, unrelated to the characters themselves, stands out for this theory.

Burton’s movies have a very distinctive style, and this is part of his universal appeal. The same can be said for most of Tim Burton’s movies, and this means the director’s films often feature recurring themes, characters, or styles. While some resemblances are obvious, the truly fascinating connections lie in the more subtle and overlooked similarities. Often regarded as the pinnacle of his work, Edward Scissorhands is a one-of-a-kind project for several reasons. However, one theory links the feature to another of Burton’s more contested projects, and its connection to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is especially intriguing.

Edward Scissorhands Is A Charlie & the Chocolate Factor Sequel: Theory Explained

The Theory Concerns The Machinery In Both Of Tim Burton’s Films

Edward Scissorhands and Burton’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory are more similar than one might think. Starring Johnny Depp and Winona Ryder, Edward Scissorhands was first released in 1990. The movie ranks high among Burton’s best movies, and follows the тιтular character as he experiences a seemingly perfect suburban town. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, however, was far more controversial after its debut in 2005. Part of the reason why Burton’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is controversial is because it made huge changes to the beloved Gene Wilder version, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory.

Interestingly, in the opening scene of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, audiences can see a cookie-cutter machine that is familiar to fans of Burton. The machine sets up the conditions for Willy Wonka’s compeтιтion, showing the vouchers being placed into chocolate bars during packaging and dispatch. This cookie-cutter machinery was first seen in Edward Scissorhands, during a flashback where we see the inventor of the synthetic man observing and appreciating his work — before an incredibly effective ‘show don’t tell’ moment as he approaches a robot with a heart-shaped cookie. Consequently, there could be a connection between these events and movies.

The theory (via Reddit) suggests these machines are connected because Willy Wonka retired and then relocated to Florida, resuming a solitary life. Given Roald Dahl’s book is likely set in the late 1940s to 1950s, it’s not completely impossible. During his exile, Wonka remained an active inventor, broadening his scope beyond chocolate and his familiar territory to focus on addressing humanity’s issues. He did so by creating an innocent, flawless child who would blossom in adulthood. However, he pᴀssed away before he became successful in his plan, but it’s evident that Wonka aimed to leave a lasting legacy by shaping his invention, Edward, in his own image.

Edward’s Creator & Willy Wonka Have Much In Common

Burton’s Characters Are Not All That Different

Edward’s inventor in Edward Scissorhands and Willy Wonka share a lot of similarities as a result of them both being a creation of Tim Burton. The director’s recurring themes and style are evident in both characters, but the most notable comparison is the fact they’re both brilliant inventors who choose to live a solitary life. The isolated individuals in these two movies have cut themselves off from society because they don’t conform to the outside world, and live in structures akin to each other — with Willy Wonka’s large-scale factory and Edward’s gothic castle on the edge of the suburbs.

With that in mind, although both individuals possess an advanced intellect and creative flair, Wonka and Edward’s inventor have an undeniable childlike innocence regarding the world. They are both somewhat unfamiliar with human interaction and are uncomfortable in these settings. Crucially, both characters are central to their narratives, allowing Burton to delve into his frequent theme of individuality versus societal conformity. Of course, Edward’s talents are initially embraced, but he’s soon rejected by the obstinate people living in the suburban town, while Wonka’s eccentricity acts as a stark contrast to the rest of society.

Both inventors are highly distinctive characters. While Edward’s creator focuses on the boy’s mechanical appearance, which are the hallmarks of Burton’s character design, Wonka wears flamboyant clothing and speaks rather quickly and peculiarly. In a way, Edward’s inventor and Wonka each had unique creations. While the former is obvious, Wonka tests the children to find an heir for his company, mentoring them to discover an heir who will embody himself. Neither individual is a biological father, and they both guide their “creations” in unconventional ways, but still hope to nurture someone in their own likeness.

How The Theory Changes Both Edward Scissorhands & Charlie & the Chocolate Factory

The Viewing Experience Becomes Much Richer For Both Films Thanks To This Theory

When you’re watching these films with an awareness of Burton’s recurring themes, this theory significantly enhances the viewing experience for Edward Scissorhands and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The connection between characters becomes even clearer when you watch the films within a short timeframe of each other. These shared thematic elements allow you to empathize more deeply with both characters. It helps us see that their reserved nature isn’t just superficial, but comes from a deeper, subconscious place and functions as a protective shield. It enriches the narrative, turning it into a more complex and ultimately more compelling viewing experience.

Part of the fun of watching Tim Burton’s movies is recognizing all his signature quirks, and those Easter eggs throughout his stories, which truly draws you into his unique world. In Burton’s films, it’s the quirky characters who are surprisingly grounded, while the seemingly ordinary suburbanites are the ones who pose a threat. To some extent, understanding these thematic and character similarities, such as Edward’s creator and Willy Wonka, enriches your appreciation for Burton’s artistic vision. Decades later, and after being parodied so many times, Tim Burton’s movies remain astonishingly effective and deeply emotional.

Source: Reddit