The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Directed by Henry Selick

This animated film is definitely one of the pop-culture classics. It’s commonly referenced in social media and the songs, specifically ‘This is Halloween’ is widely known. It’s one of my favourite Halloween songs, it has a lovely spooky and mysterious atmosphere. But then I sat down in my seat in front of the screen and suddenly this thought hit me - I actually had no idea what this film was about or what to expect.

Design and its familiarity was the first thing I noticed. It was dark, grim, created from angular and irregular shapes and forms. I’ve seen this before! I instantly recalled set design from German expressionism silent films, specifically - The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920). (I can’t wait to fall down the rabbit hole of articles, video essays about Tim Burton and German expressionism influence on his art) I adored the difference between Halloween town and Christmas Village, such a contrast! The second was absolutely opposite of German expressionism. I loved character design, each and every one was original, created from different shapes (squares, circles, triangles). Characters were recognizable, some of them had very specific references like Frankenstein and his ‘monsters’. During viewing I got curious to see other Holidays through the Halloween lens, although it probably wouldn’t create an interesting film as this plot was just explored.

Some of my other thoughts that this animation sparked. Music was a delightful component, I believe that’s one of the best parts of Disney creations in general. My favourite soundtrack is very obviously ‘This is Halloween’. Were you surprised? While watching this film I had another question: what is the target audience? Because no way it's for kids! After my quick info hunt it turns out it’s for teens, young adults and generally suitable for family viewing (except for very, very young children aged around 7 and below). And lastly, the relationship between Sally and Dr. Finkelstein really showcased that misogynistic view that men carried in the last century (sadly, it’s still present in the 21st as well) of owning women, their bodies, their time. How Dr. believed that Sally is not her own, but his. In the end Sally gained her independence from him, but only because Finkelstein created a new wife from his own body. Was it a reference to Adam and Eve, where the woman was just a mere extension from his rib brain?

I’ll finish with an idea and inspiration for the future - I’d love to create set design (possibly characters?) for stop motion animation by using UV paints with hidden elements.

And as always just because I can, I'll rate this film as well. I would give 5 Zeros out of 5. Cheers!