“T’was a long time ago, longer now than it seems, in a place that perhaps you’ve seen in your dreams. For the story you are about to be told took place in the holiday worlds of old. Now, you’ve probably wondered where holidays come from, if you haven’t I’d say it’s time you begun.
And so begins Tim Burton’s fanciful tale of Pumpkin Kings, Oogie Boogies, and Sandy Claws, “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” Filled with terrifyingly beautiful sights and one hell of a catchy soundtrack, “The Nightmare Before Christmas” tells the simple story of Halloween Town’s most famous citizen, Jack Skellington, and his desire to bring the colorful joy of Christmas Town to the German-expressionistic gloom of his community of ghouls through some of the most remarkable stop-motion animation ever seen.
The scene is Halloween Town where, not surprisingly, October 31 is the biggest night of the year. However, after arranging and carrying out his most devilish Halloween yet, Jack Skellington is suffering the post- holiday blues. He craves something different in his life, something that can’t be found in Halloween Town. Wandering out in a forest, he discovers gateways to different holidays, and finds his way to Christmas Town. There, he is captivated by the lights, the festivity, and the joy. He returns home to tell everyone that this year, Halloween Town is going to celebrate Christmas. To make things complete, he, Jack Skellington, will replace “Sandy Claws” on his yearly December 25 ride, delivering presents and spreading good cheer. Everyone is keen on the idea except Sally, who has a premonition of doom if Jack goes through with his plans.
The Nightmare Before Christmas is a visual splendor. All of the figures move smoothly and naturally, and the attention to detail is exquisite. The film is designed for all but the youngest children, some of whom might be frightened by the bizarre inhabitants of Halloween Town. On its surface, the story is relatively straightforward, enabling younger viewers to enjoy the movie without becoming lost or bored. However, the film works on a second level, as well. The most deft humor is aimed at adults. Even those who aren’t taken in by the charming tale or likable characters will be enthralled by the world Tim Burton and director Henry Selick have created. It is, quite frankly, an amazing achievement.
The Nightmare Before Christmas is a rare jewel as it is a film of pure, uncompromised imagination. It presents us with a world filled with bizarre creatures whose simple motivation is to be good at something. The monsters of Halloween, led by the angular Jack Skellington, want for a change of pace to try to put on their own Christmas. It doesn’t work out. That is the entire plot, but when a movie looks this good and is this much fun to watch, who cares? All in all, one of my favourites.I guess that is the reason why my son has its poster hanging in his bedroom and we sing one of its songs every night when he goes to sleep.
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