'31 Nights of Horror' Day 17: The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Hey, ghouls! 31 Nights of Horror is here, serving up daily scares with reviews of classic and new horror films. Watch for chilling lists and other spine-tingling pieces. Keep your lights on… the terror begins now
It’s just not spooky season—or honestly, the magic from October to December—without a sprinkle of enchantment from The Nightmare Before Christmas! This Henry Selick-directed gem, birthed from the whimsical imagination of Tim Burton, continues to cast a spell that enchants my heart every time I watch it. Seriously, I could rewatch it a million times and still find myself captivated by the artistry and stunning stop-motion animation. It’s like falling under a beautiful enchantment that you never want to end!
Our beloved Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloweentown, discovers the enchanting world of Christmas, igniting a delightful yet chaotic yearning to spread holiday cheer. His well-intentioned attempts to become Santa Claus lead to hilariously disastrous consequences, making for a perfect blend of spooky and sweet that keeps us all giggling.
Danny Elfman’s score is a breathtaking masterpiece that dances through your mind, leaving you humming those unforgettable tunes long after the credits roll. The music perfectly weaves together the eerie and emotional, capturing the essence of both Halloween and Christmas in a way that feels just right.
The story is wonderfully quirky—yes, I went there!—and a true testament to creative genius, especially paired with the stunning visuals. The animation is so smooth and detailed, it feels like stepping into a surreal dreamscape.
“Stepping into this film feels like entering a dreamscape filled with whimsy and wonder.”
This isn’t my first time celebrating the brilliance of a Tim Burton creation, and I can assure you it won’t be the last. While it may not top my list of favorites, The Nightmare Before Christmas has a cherished spot in my heart, evoking that sense of childlike wonder and nostalgia that makes this season truly enchanting.
The themes and aesthetics are so hauntingly beautiful, yet the story keeps things fun and whimsical, perfectly capturing why this time of year is just the absolute best! It’s like a charming blend of spooky and sweet that wraps you in a cozy embrace, making every moment feel like a delightful celebration.
What I absolutely adore about this film is how it speaks to all the lovely misfits and daydreamers out there! The romance between Jack and Sally, voiced so sweetly by Catherine O'Hara, is that dreamy, fate-filled love story we all wish for. Their connection is the heartbeat of the film, sprinkling just the right amount of sweetness to balance out the delightful spookiness.
In every way, The Nightmare Before Christmas is like a magical love letter to the holiday season, reminding us why we keep falling head over heels for this timeless classic year after year.