The Nightmare Before Christmas
A hauntingly beautiful stop-motion symphony where the macabre waltzes with the merry, exploring one's purpose in a visually stunning, gothic fairytale.
The Nightmare Before Christmas
The Nightmare Before Christmas

"What's this? What's this?"

09 October 1993 United States of America 76 min ⭐ 7.8 (9,995)
Director: Henry Selick
Cast: Danny Elfman, Chris Sarandon, Catherine O'Hara, William Hickey, Glenn Shadix
Animation Family Fantasy
Identity and Self-Discovery Cultural Appropriation vs. Appreciation The Search for Meaning and Fulfillment Love and Understanding
Budget: $18,000,000
Box Office: $75,634,409

The Nightmare Before Christmas - Movie Quotes

Memorable Quotes

Just because I cannot see it, doesn't mean I can't believe it!

— Jack Skellington

Context:

Jack says this as he tries to explain the concept of Christmas to the bewildered residents of Halloween Town, who struggle to comprehend a holiday not centered around fright and mischief.

Meaning:

This line encapsulates Jack's optimistic and curious nature, as well as his initial, albeit naive, faith in the magic of Christmas. It speaks to the broader theme of belief in the unseen and the power of imagination.

For it is plain as anyone can see, we're simply meant to be.

— Jack and Sally

Context:

Sung as a duet at the climax of the film, after Jack has saved the day and finally recognizes Sally's love and support for him. They are standing on Spiral Hill as snow begins to fall in Halloween Town.

Meaning:

This final line of the film confirms the romantic union of Jack and Sally and provides a heartwarming conclusion to their respective journeys. It signifies their mutual acceptance and the idea that they complement each other perfectly.

I am the master of fright, and a demon of light, and I'll scare you right out of your pants.

— Jack Skellington

Context:

This is part of the opening musical number, where the various residents of Halloween Town are introduced, and Jack makes his grand entrance as the Pumpkin King.

Meaning:

This line from the song "This is Halloween" perfectly establishes Jack's character as the charismatic and celebrated leader of Halloween Town. It showcases his pride in his role and his expertise in the art of scaring.

I sense there's something in the wind, that feels like tragedy's at hand.

— Sally

Context:

Sally sings this to herself early in the film, expressing her anxieties about Jack's newfound obsession with Christmas and her feelings of foreboding.

Meaning:

This line reveals Sally's intuitive and cautious nature. It serves as a premonition of the chaos that Jack's Christmas plans will unleash, establishing her as the voice of reason in the film.

You're jokin', you're jokin'! I can't believe my eyes! You're jokin' me, you gotta be. This can't be the right guy!

— Oogie Boogie

Context:

Oogie Boogie sings this upon the arrival of the kidnapped Santa Claus in his lair, as he prepares to torture him in his casino-themed dungeon.

Meaning:

This quote from "Oogie Boogie's Song" showcases his flamboyant, theatrical, and mocking personality. It highlights his disbelief and delight at having Santa Claus, a figure of pure goodness, in his villainous clutches.