The Nightmare Before Christmas – 4K UHD Review

Disney’s iconic animated classic, The Nightmare Before Christmas, has made its long-awaited debut in the realm of 4K UHD Blu-ray, and it’s nothing short of a hauntingly beautiful addition to any collection. Having previously enjoyed its spooky charms on Disney+ in 4K UHD, this new 2160p HDR10 transfer is a delightful treat for fans and cinephiles alike.

For those who share my sentiment, the streaming experience, though convenient, often falls short when compared to the tangible allure of physical discs, with physical media we got to witness 4K in all its glory rather than a compressed format. This release reaffirms the magic of collecting movies, providing an unrivaled sense of dimension and depth that even the Dolby Vision streaming version can’t quite replicate. Disney’s commitment to excellence is evident here, as they didn’t settle for upconverting an old master; instead, they treated us to a fresh scan, and the results are remarkable.

The improvements over the included “Sing-Along Edition” disc are palpable. The film’s grain structure maintains its cinematic charm without becoming intrusive, allowing viewers to revel in every intricate detail of the characters and sets. Stop-motion animation enthusiasts, in particular, will find joy in pausing the film to admire the picture-perfect images, revealing textures and nuances previously unnoticed.
The HDR10 grade enhances the experience further, with deep black levels and impeccable shadow delineation contributing to a heightened sense of depth. The colors burst forth with vibrancy, faithfully representing the film’s artistic vision. Whites remain crisp without any blooming issues, ensuring a crystal-clear image throughout.

Visuals Review: 4.7/5

In the audio department, Disney simplifies the selection to a DTS-HD MA 7.1 track, eschewing the various tracks of previous releases. The choice to opt for a more expansive surround experience pays off splendidly for The Nightmare Before Christmas. This audio mix envelops the viewer in a truly engaging and immersive soundscape. Dialogue and song lyrics are crystal clear, while Danny Elfman’s unforgettable score and the eerie sound effects ensure that every channel is put to use.

Audio Review: 4.5/5

This 30th-anniversary release may not bring any new audio surprises, but the existing 7.1 mix continues to impress. While some may wonder why Disney didn’t go the extra mile with an Atmos track, there’s little to complain about when the current mix is this enjoyable.

If you’re a devoted fan of The Nightmare Before Christmas and crave the finest visual experience for your collection, this 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray release is a must-have and the stop-motion animation excels in 4K UHD. It’s a testament to Disney’s dedication to preserving the magic of this beloved film, making it a worthy addition to any collector’s library. Don’t miss the chance to let Jack Skellington and his spooky friends haunt your 4K collection in unparalleled style.

9.2/10

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