Gary Oldman on classic 90s movie he ‘didn’t get’

EntertainmentMovie
20 Aug 2025 • 1:29 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Gary Oldman has explained why he turned down the lead role in Tim Burton's 1990 cult classic, Edward Scissorhands.
  • The Harry Potter star was on Burton's shortlist for the part in the late 1980s but admitted he ‘didn't get’ the script at the time.
  • Oldman found the concept of the Avon lady and the kid with the scissor hands too strange and consequently did not meet Tim Burton.
  • The role ultimately went to Johnny Depp, which helped launch his career.
  • Upon seeing the film after its release, Oldman quickly understood Burton's vision, realising his initial misjudgment.

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