Overrated Movies: Nightmare Before Christmas (1997)

For a movie with such a high reputation, a huge cult following, and praise from everyone on the planet, Nightmare Before Christmas really isn't good at all. Directed by Henry Selick, Nightmare Before Christmas utilizes the stop motion animation respect. In this respect, it is very impressive and unique. Although it isn't directed by him, this film just oozes Tim Burton. The film follows Jack Skellington who lives in Halloween Town and one day finds the entrance to "Christmas Town". Skellington sees the traditions of this new world and he desires to emulate them in his town. Doesn't that sound good? Well, too bad it is boring and poorly acted. The film is only an hour and a half long, but it feels a good hour longer than that. It is so difficult to get through and you'll find yourself checking you watch several times throughout. The voice acting is some of the worst I have ever seen. Whoever voiced Sally deserved a good, hard smack in the face.

The popularity of this movie truly boggles my mind. I can't really understand why some think it is so amazing. Is it just the fact that it's so out there? Is it the animation? Is it just Burton's cult charm? I'd be willing to bet it's one of those, but it's right up there with Napoleon Dynamite as the most merchandised shitty movie of all time. Also, I strongly recommend that you do not go and see this in it's annual 3D theater run. The 3D is extremely disappointing, not to mention annoying and out of place. It's a movie that wasn't made for 3D, hence it looks awful as a 3D movie. If you agree with me and don't like Nightmare Before Christmas, then I highly suggest that you go out and rent Corpse Bride. It is also by Tim Burton and is also stop animation, but it is vastly superior to its predecessor. Even if you did like Nightmare Before Christmas, check out Corpse Bride. There are few times that I've been more disappointed with a movie than when I saw Nightmare and that's unfortunate. I sincerely wanted to love the hell out of this movie, but it wasn't happening.

5/10