Monster Character WiKi

Jack Skellington

 

Jack Skellington is the protagonist of Walt Disney’s stop-motion picture, The Nightmare Before Christmas.  From its initial debut in 1993, this film has captured the hearts of all ages – adults, children, and adolescents, alike. What was once imagined as a poem (in 1982) was skillfully crafted into the renowned gothic fantasy under the diligent care of Tim Burton (writer) and Henry Selick (director). With the use of innovative imagery and animation techniques, this stop-motion picture (in which each scene consists of hundreds to thousands of individual photographs) became revered as a technological classic to be shown for both educational and entertainment purposes.

 

For more than 20 years, this film has influenced (and continues to inspire) modern-day pop culture – through various works of poetry, art, and music (especially for those who have grown up with the film –  for example “I Miss You” was released by Blink 182 in 2003). Although this film was originally intended for a younger audience, many identify with Jack on his journey of self-discovery and acceptance. Ultimately, these underlying themes appeal to viewers of all ages – especially to those who are seeking to find where they belong in the world.

 

Initially, Jack is portrayed as the Pumpkin King – the most terrifying of all monsters in Halloween Land. However, Jack proves that he is not a monster at all – at least, not in his heart. Instead, Jack embarks upon a journey of self-discovery as he searches for “something more” – or a greater meaning for his monotonous life. After yet another Halloween passes with its usual lackluster charm, Jack discovers a passageway to Christmas Land – a strange world of wonder and cheer. Experiencing this new world inspires Jack, who decides to bring this discovery back to the land of darkness. However, Jack soon realizes that his friends cannot comprehend the joy of his discovery – it is not in their nature. Therefore, Jack adapts his newfound Christmas spirit to include more monster-friendly notions – such as the concept of Sandy Claws (the doppelganger image of Santa Claus). Eager to help, Jack insists that the real Santa take a vacation, while Jack (as Sandy Claws) delivers his own brand of (Halloween-inspired) Christmas cheer. However, Jack eventually comes to realize that he was never meant to be Sandy Claws – he is the Pumpkin King! Thus, Jack rushes back to Halloween Land to free Santa Claus and save Christmas!

 

As far as monster literature is concerned, Jack does not represent the typical depiction of the supernatural. While he is described as the most grotesque of all, he also possesses the most human characteristics – both physically and emotionally. At first glance, the audience immediately identifies with Jack because of his character – an exaggerated skeleton. Assuming that Jack was once human, he possesses similar physical features that make him more relatable to the viewing audience (as compared to other monstrous characters, in which representations range from comical to sinister).

 

In addition, Jack experiences many emotions that are reminiscent of the world of the living – including compassion, fear, and empathy towards others. In this regard, the audience not only identifies with Jack, but sympathizes with his character. Thus, the viewing audience recognizes Jack’s need to discover his true identity and place in the world – for many individuals strive for this goal, themselves.

 

Moreover, audiences of all ages understand that Jack is not inherently evil – just confused and misguided. Although Jack does try to take Santa’s place as Father Christmas, he does not mean to cause any harm. Rather, he thought that he would be providing a favor for Santa – a much-needed vacation. Despite Jack’s best intentions, Santa was almost sacrificed to the antagonist of the film – the Oogie Boogie. Nonetheless, Jack’s true identity and character are realized as he is “reborn” as the Pumpkin King – after which, he hurries back to Halloween Land to right his wrongs.  Luckily, Jack returns in time to save Santa and Christmas!

 

Ultimately, Jack Skellington is a multidimensional character that does not abide by literary standards of a “monster.” Instead, Jack is capable of emotion and understanding – which are characteristics that cannot be awarded to most literary monsters. Instead of harboring violent and inhuman desires (such the mindless killing of innocent people, for which most beasts are known), Jack simply wishes to belong. Thus, audiences of all ages are inspired to break free of the limitations of society in order to pursue their dreams.

 

Writen by: Bekah Pinkowski