'Masterpiece' gothic fantasy film starring Johnny Depp is free to stream on BBC iPlayer

A film, described as a "masterpiece" by fans, which stars Johnny Depp, has been added to BBC iPlayer. Edward Scissorhands is a 1990 American Gothic romantic fantasy film directed and produced by Tim Burton.

It was written by Caroline Thompson and Burton, and stars Depp as the title character, along with Winona Ryder, Dianne Wiest, Anthony Michael Hall, Kathy Baker, Vincent Price, and Alan Arkin. The film's synopsis reads: "A scientist (Price) builds an animated human being - the gentle Edward (Depp).

The scientist dies before he can finish assembling Edward, though, leaving the young man with a freakish appearance accentuated by the scissor blades he has instead of hands. Loving suburban saleswoman Peg (Wiest) discovers Edward and takes him home, where he falls for Peg's teen daughter (Ryder). However, despite his kindness and artistic talent, Edward's hands make him an outcast."

Edward Scissorhands has an impressive 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with the critics' consensus reading: "The first collaboration between Johnny Depp and Tim Burton, Edward Scissorhands is a magical modern fairy tale with gothic overtones and a sweet centre."

One reviewer described the film as a "masterpiece", adding: "Packed with striking visuals and a raw emotional centre, Edward Scissorhands (1990) remains Tim Burton's crowning achievement. A true modern fairytale and one of the greatest auteur films ever made! An absolute masterpiece!"

Another wrote a glowing review, expressing: "Tim Burton's Edward Scissorhands tells the heart-wrenching story about a man made, not begotten, brought into a passively cruel suburb. Though this story appears gothic and horror, its gentle, loving and satirical undertones portray the prejudices contained within a society that is not accustomed or prepared to accept him. Exploring themes of unconditional love of all living things, racial cohesion, and accommodations of people with disabilities, Edward Scissorhands is an engaging screenplay and orchestral masterpiece."

"Touchingly beautiful story of love, while also a satire of humanity. I absolutely love it. The music, the costume and set design are perfect. I rewatch it every Christmas and it's one of my favourite movies," added a third.

Edward Scissorhands is available to stream now on BBC iPlayer.