DVD review (region 1)
Directed by Henry Selick
Starring the voices of Chris Sarandon, Catherine O'Hara, William Hickey
Release date Out now

Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King, tries to introduce the concept of Christmas to Halloweentown – but things don’t quite go to plan…

Another DVD release for this wonderfully dark stop motion comedy, which makes a great antidote to the usual sentimental seasonal fare.

Though directed by Henry Selick, the film bears all the hallmarks of Tim Burton (who produces and came up with the surreal story), and the ghoulish laughs recall the likes of Beetlejuice and Frankenweenie. Danny Elfman’s songs might lessen the darkness somewhat, but numbers such as ‘What’s This?’ and ‘Kidnap the Sandy Claws’ inspire such frenzied toe-tapping that you can easily forgive this.

Populated by memorable, colourful characters (Jack Skellington, Dr. Finkelstein, Oogie Boogie) and featuring truly remarkable animation, this is one of those films that stands up to endless repeat viewing.

This latest 2-disc release is perhaps the best DVD release yet. There’s a commentary from Burton, Selick and Elfman, a couple of ‘Making ofs’, the original Tim Burton poem (narrated by Christopher Lee) and various deleted scenes. It even includes Burton’s acclaimed shorts Frankenweenie and Vincent. You also get a digital version of the movie (to copy to your computer) and the whole thing comes in a chunky Jack Skellington box. James Skipp

VERDICT: 9/10
A modern animated classic with hours of added extras.