A modern film that takes inspiration from German Expressionism is Tim Burton’s ‘Dark Shadows’ (2012).

The most notable aspect of German Expressionism in Dark Shadows is the use of costume, specifically the makeup. The character of Barnabas Collins is shown to have a very pale skin tone with dark black shadows painted around his eyes and defined cheek bones. This type of style demonstrates the darkness that is incorporated in German Expressionism and the common use of shadows.

Another element is the use of obscure angles and camera tilting that Tim Burton incorporates in Dark Shadows. The altered camera angles give the sense of abnormality that reflects the type of world it is set in.

The deep shadows Tim Burton uses are also inspired by German Expressionism, along with the set design. There are many similarities in regards to the shot types almost mirroring German Expressionist films, but specifically The Cabinet of Dr Caligari.