City of Austin celebrates Tim Burton and announces Keep Austin Peculiar Day during Fantastic Fest

Sep 25, 2016

by

Tim Burton was in attendance today during Fantastic Fest to premiere his latest film Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children and accept a proclamation by Austin resident and Director Robert Rodriguez announcing “Keep Austin Peculiar Day”.

Fantastic Fest founder Tim League, was also in attendance to introduce the two directors.

During the presentation, Rodriguez welcomed attendees of Fantastic Fest, “Austin has embraced those of us who never settled into the mainstream.”

Rodriguez went on to say, “It is my utmost pleasure to proclaim September 25th, 2016 “Keep Austin Peculiar” as our new tagline in honor of visionary filmmaker, Tim Burton.”

Tim Burton received cheers from the crowd as he stated, “It’s great to be welcomed by the king of Austin. Austin doesn’t need any proclamation to stay peculiar. You don’t need any help from me: Just keep going.” Tim then introduced the film to Fantastic Fest attendees.

During the Red Carpet, we had the opportunity to chat with Burton and discuss what attracted him to turning the novel into a film,

When I read the book, the photographs, the themes, feeling peculiar about fitting in, fantasy and reality,  the sort of family kind of relationship, there was a lot of little thing like that that really attracted me to it. I felt like I had almost written it myself, but I didn’t.

When asked whether there were any plans to follow the books trend and make a sequel,

All of my focus was mainly into this film. I haven’t quite thought about a sequel yet.

After the presentation, Tim introduced his film, Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children ahead of its world wide theatrical release. Miss Peregrine’s School for Peculiar Children hits theaters September 30th. Don’t forget to check out our review of the film.

Those in the attendance were also treated with a Q&A featuring Tim League and Tim Burton after the film. You can watch the full Q&A on the Alamo Drafthouse Facebook Page.

Official Synopsis:
When his beloved grandfather leaves Jake clues to a mystery that spans different worlds and times, he finds a magical place known as Miss Peregrine’s School for Peculiar Children. But the mystery and danger deepen as he gets to know the residents and learns about their special powers – and their terrifying enemies. Ultimately, Jake discovers that only his own special peculiarity can save his new friends. Based on the novel “Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children,” written by Ransom Riggs.

Full Gallery from the event: