The Nightmare Before Christmas Director Reveals Jack Skellington Is Hidden in All His Movies

The Nightmare Before Christmas Director Reveals Jack Skellington Is Hidden in All His Movies

As a gamer who’s spent countless hours poring over frames of animated films, I can confidently say that Henry Selick’s secretive tribute to Jack Skellington has been one of the most delightful Easter eggs to uncover. Growing up, I was captivated by the stop-motion masterpieces of Tim Burton and Henry Selick, their unique storytelling and intricate worlds leaving a lasting impression on me.


In a recent chat, the director behind both “The Nightmare Before Christmas” and “Coraline,” Henry Selick, has added fuel to fans’ theories that he secretly includes Jack Skellington in every film he directs, even those not directly under Disney ownership. This beloved character has been subtly slipped into films from studios like Laika as a subtle tribute to the movie that catapulted Selick into animation stardom. Interestingly, Jack Skellington also makes cameo appearances in some of Tim Burton’s movies, who produced the film and was often given credit for its success. It seems both directors may have shared this idea.

As Coraline celebrates her 15th birthday this year and a special theatrical re-release taking place today, Selick has been busy giving interviews. In these conversations, he’s also discussed his intentions for a sequel inspired by Neil Gaiman’s novel, “The Ocean at the End of the Lane”. During one such interview, he hinted at a possible location where fans might find one of the Jacks.

As a devoted admirer, I was intrigued when director Henry Selick hinted to GamesRadar+ that a subtle depiction of Jack could be found in nearly every film he’s crafted. However, legally, he can’t confirm this claim, but it’s a tantalizing possibility. Selick playfully issued me a personal quest: “Definitely, I’d recommend scrutinizing the breakfast scene in Coraline; there might be something intriguing waiting for you there.”

GamesRadar+ pointed out that the hidden references to Jack in James and the Giant Peach, such as the skeletal pirates resembling him, and his appearance in the credits of Wendell & Wild are widely recognized easter eggs.

In the story of ‘Coraline’, a young girl named Coraline, portrayed by Dakota Fanning, ventures into her newly moved home and stumbles upon a hidden door that unveils an alternate universe remarkably similar to hers, yet superior in numerous aspects. Initially thrilled by this find, she soon realizes that the Other Mother (Teri Hatcher) and her counterparts in this realm intend to retain her there perpetually. Determined to reunite with her family, Coraline musters all her courage and ingenuity to escape back to her original world.

To attend one of tonight’s showings of “Coraline”, simply visit Fandango’s website for details about the official screening event. Alternatively, you can purchase or rent the movie on DVD or digital platforms as well.

Read More

2024-08-16 22:09