What was the first feature film directed by Tim Burton?

Pee-wee’s Big Adventure was the first feature film directed by Tim Burton.

Released in 1985, the film follows Pee-wee Herman on a cross-country search for his stolen red bicycle. Paul Reubens stars as Pee-wee, and the movie combines broad comedy with Burton’s early interest in exaggerated design, unusual characters, and visually distinctive worlds.

Before making the feature, Burton directed short films including Vincent and Frankenweenie and worked in animation at Walt Disney Productions. Pee-wee’s Big Adventure gave him his first opportunity to direct a full-length theatrical production.

The film was made after the success of The Pee-wee Herman Show and Pee-wee’s Playhouse. Its success led to Burton’s next feature, the supernatural comedy Beetlejuice, and helped establish the visual identity associated with his later work.