The story is set in a Victorian-era European village and follows Victor Van Dort (voiced by Johnny Depp), a shy and awkward young man who is betrothed to Victoria Everglot (voiced by Emily Watson), the daughter of wealthy aristocrats. Despite being arranged to marry Victoria, Victor is nervous about the wedding and struggles with his vows during the rehearsal.
In a moment of frustration, Victor retreats to the forest to practice his vows, where he accidentally places the wedding ring on the finger of a mysterious corpse bride named Emily (voiced by Helena Bonham Carter), who rises from the dead and claims Victor as her husband.
Victor finds himself transported to the Land of the Dead, a colorful and vibrant underworld inhabited by deceased souls. He discovers that Emily was murdered on her wedding day and has been waiting for a groom ever since. Initially terrified, Victor eventually sympathizes with Emily and promises to help her find peace and closure.
Meanwhile, Victoria grows concerned when Victor fails to show up for their wedding, leading her to suspect foul play. She seeks the help of her family’s sinister and conniving butler, Barkis Bittern (voiced by Richard E. Grant), who has his own hidden agenda.
As Victor and Emily navigate the Land of the Dead together, they encounter a cast of eccentric and lovable characters, including the kindly elder couple, Elder Gutknecht (voiced by Michael Gough) and Elder Maggot (voiced by Christopher Lee), who offer guidance and wisdom.
In the climax of the film, Victor and Emily confront Barkis, who reveals his true intentions and attempts to claim Emily’s dowry for himself. A chaotic and thrilling confrontation ensues, culminating in a dramatic showdown between the living and the dead.
In the end, Victor and Emily’s love triumphs over adversity, and they are reunited in death, while Victoria realizes her true feelings for Victor. Barkis meets his comeuppance, and the residents of both the Land of the Living and the Land of the Dead come together to celebrate love, friendship, and the bonds that unite them.
Overall, “Corpse Bride” is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that combines Tim Burton’s signature gothic aesthetic with a heartfelt and enchanting story. With its memorable characters, catchy musical numbers, and themes of love, loss, and redemption, it remains a beloved classic of animated cinema.