WOW!

Rating: Null/10 (30 December 2000)

"The Nightmare Before Christmas," for me, is one of those films that is beyond any criticism whatsoever. To me, it is art in the truest sense of the word. It is the best modern musical I've seen, the best animated film I've ever seen, and one of the best films I've ever seen. Tim Burton, the postmodern German expressionist, has carved a devilishly beautiful film out of his twisted little head. He didn't direct or write the script, unlike everyone thinks, so just as much credit is due to those who did. Every frame in this film is a painting. It's a shame that this film isn't on the Top 250 list (let alone the top 10)--if any film deserves to be, this is it. The art (perhaps a modern manifesto of German expressionism), the direction, Danny Elfman's musical numbers (notice the throwback to "Singin' in the Rain" when Jack jumps on the bench in the snowy graveyard) are all sooo well done. It is as close to a perfect entertainment as any film can come and can be watched over and over and over again. I cannot recommend it highly enough. If you haven't seen it, it is a must.
9.5/10 (my highest rating, I don't believe in 'tens.' Don't ask.)