Why does Tim Burton always put Helena Bonham Carter or Johnny Depp in every one of his movies?

Answer 1

Actually if you check, they are not in every one of his movies. But it is a common occurance in the movie world to employ one's favorite actors periodically. With Burton and Depp, they know and respect each other. As an actor Depp (and Carter) are depenable and professional, not to metion talented, which is very important when shooting begins. Time is money, when an actor shows up late for work and hasn't learned their lines (just examples) costs rise as does the director's temper. It is also true that Depp has the ability to fill theater seats, not just here in America, but on a world-wide level. If I were a director or an investor, I would want a name that would almost guarantee a tidy profit at the box office.

History will show that this is a profitable situation for many directors, not just Burton. John Ford made many films that included return actors such as John Wayne, Ward Bond and Maureen O'Hara. Clint Eastwood had a gaing of actors that appeared in his movies periodically. Working with someone you know and trust takes away some of the uncertainty that is commonplace in today's film business. It's a risky and expensive business. If you can reduce the chances of failure, everybody's happier.