Disney’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” is turning 30 this year, and once again fans are being teased with the possibility of another film. But this time, it’s coming from director Henry Selick.
Selick recently admitted he wouldn’t jump at the idea of making a sequel. Many would assume this hesitation is due to how labor-intensive the first film was. But it’s really because he thinks it’s “a perfect movie [that] came out of the perfect time, only to grow into something far bigger over the years.”
“I think Tim in particular feels like, why mess with that?” Selick said, referring to the film’s writer, Tim Burton. “He certainly doesn’t need to make more money from a sequel. He has had so many other successes, and so far nobody’s come up with a great idea for a sequel. And I still think that Tim gets to decide. I don’t think there’s any idea that would convince him.”
With that being said, Selick isn’t opposed to another “The Nightmare Before Christmas” movie. He just feels a sequel may not be the best way to go. “It might be more interesting to do a prequel,” he theorized. “There might be a more interesting story there about how Jack became the King of Halloweentown.”
During this interview, Chris Sarandon (Jack Skellington’s speaking voice) confirmed he would “absolutely” be on board to reprise his part of the role. “To quote Henry, ‘F— yeah,’ ” said Sarandon. “If there were a sequel, I’d be there in a minute.”
Keep in mind that Jack’s singing voice was provided by composer Danny Elfman, so both would need to be on board. And if it were a prequel focusing on his origin story, Sally (Catherine O’Hara) wouldn’t really need to be involved. Though we would never turn down more O’Hara.
So, it doesn’t sound like another “The Nightmare Before Christmas” is totally out of the question.
“The Nightmare Before Christmas” is currently available to stream on Disney+. Elfman is also bringing back his annual live concert at the Hollywood Bowl later this month.
