The Nightmare Before Christmas is Timeless

What do you mean this movie came out thirty years ago? No, that can’t be right. I remember watching this at my grandma’s house when I was six. There’s no way I’m already that old…

Calling the Nightmare Before Christmas a masterpiece is an entirely redundant statement. Everyone knows it. Kids love it, adults love it, Hot Topic customers really love it, you get the picture. It’s one of the most monumental and beloved animated films of all time.

Did you think I was going to contradict that? Sorry, no hot takes today. I’m just talking about a good movie.

In the spooky realm of Halloween Town, Jack Skellington has grown bored and depressed. Halloween has lost its luster for the Pumpkin King. One day, he wanders into a mysterious grove, wherein he discovers the doorways to other holidays. Specifically: Christmas. Awed and enticed, Jack makes plans to hijack the day from Santa Claus and take charge for the night. But can the master of scares manage a night of pure joy?

This is such a genius premise for a holiday film. Blending Halloween and Christmas makes for an incredibly strong and unique aesthetic, especially for an animated movie. Whimsy and horror, delight and terror. They shouldn’t work together, yet the combination works perfectly! It’s lightning in a bottle so brilliant that no one could ever hope to capture it again.

Jack Skellington makes for a fantastic protagonist. He’s got an incredible design, his arc over the course of the film is deeply relatable for those who struggle with burnout and depression, and he’s voiced by Chris Sarandon. But not for the singing; those were done by the man, the myth, the legend: Danny Elfman. What’s not to love?

All the other characters are just as strong. Sally works great as the beating heart of the film, thanks in large part to Catherine O’Hara’s excellent performance. Oogie Boogie is a legendary villain; cocky, creepy, and clever, as well as being voiced by the amazing Ken Page, he makes the perfect foil for Jack. Everyone is extremely memorable between their unique designs and the writing, from Santa to the triplets to even the background extras!

It also incorporates the music into the narrative flawlessly. You know. Like musicals are supposed to.

The songs are remarkable, by the way. In case you live under a rock and completely missed the most iconic part of the movie.

Well, second most iconic. The Hot Topic catalogue might have it beat.

Okay, okay, I’ll stop with Hot Topic jokes. Let’s talk about the animation now.

Yeah, it’s incredible. What did you expect? Stop motion animation is such a beautiful and challenging medium and Nightmare Before Christmas is one of the best examples of it. It even blends it with other styles, like black velvet! From beginning to end, this movie is gorgeous!!

Nightmare Before Christmas is a true timeless masterpiece. From the writing to the visuals, it’s all masterfully done. Whether you need a spooky Halloween movie or a fun Christmas movie, this one fits either bill perfectly. Go watch it.

This is not a suggestion. Go. Now.