Retrospective Film Review

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) • 30 Years Later — a stop-motion masterclass of the macabre

Jack Skellington, king of Halloween Town, discovers Christmas Town, but his attempts to bring Christmas to his home cause confusion.

In total darkness, a chilling cello and violin theme echoes through the air, creating a sense of suspense and cautious intrigue. Red-golden leaves swirl in a chilling gale, and the menacing face of a Jack-o’-lantern comes into view, followed by his spectral scarecrow body. On his glowing head, he bears a sign that reads ‘Halloween Town’.

In a matter of seconds, the theme descends into a plodding, intense beat akin to a marching tune. Transported to another time, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were witnessing a medieval fair. With dishonest civility, you’re invited in: “Boys and girls of every age, wouldn’t you like to see something strange?”

The captivating opening of The Nightmare Before Christmas transports us to a unique world, one with devilish chants that introduce us to…