As I sat down to watch Disney’s Frankenweenie, I wasn’t sure what I was going to think about it. I love Tim Burton and The Nightmare Before Christmas is one of my favorite movies. The magic of Disney goes without saying so if you put the two together, it should be a hit, right?! But for some reason I had reservations. The previews looked entertaining, but how would it translate into an hour and a half film? Once I popped in the DVD, it didn’t take me long to realize I had nothing to worry about.

“Science is not good or bad Victor. But it can be used both ways. That is why you must always be careful.” 

It’s clear from the beginning of the movie that young Victor is a bit of a misfit, but you can’t help but like him. His only real friend is his dog Sparky. When Sparky meets his untimely demise, Victor is devastated. Through a powerful lecture from a science teacher and preparations for the school science fair, Victor is inspired to bring Sparky back through the use of electricity. It sounds creepy, I know. A young boy digging up his pet and trying to shock him back to life. But somehow it comes across as oddly sweet.

Soon everyone finds out the worst kept secret – you can bring your pets back to life – and total chaos ensues. Add in some unhealthy science fair competition and suddenly all of the school children are attempting to wake the dead with some rather disastrous results: undead bat-cats, grub-like mummies, frogs and sea monkeys. But these are the least of Victor’s problems because a giant creature resembling Godzilla is about to destroy Dutch Day and the town! Thanks to some quick thinking by Victor and his friends, (plus one very brave Sparky) the town and even Victor’s life are saved.

In typical Tim Burton fashion, this seemingly dark movie is not without it’s laughter and light moments. The oddball cast of characters really made the film more entertaining. I mean, do you know of any other film with a cat that could predict future events with it’s pooh? Also, the classic horror movie references are hidden all over the place. I spotted a few from “Dracula,” “Pet Cemetery,” “Godzilla/Gamera” and of course countless references to the original “Frankenstein.” Tim Burton fans will also enjoy nods at some of his newer work like Coraline.

This collaboration between Disney and Tim Burton created a movie that is not only suitable for the whole family, but it’s a heartwarming tale with humor and penchant for classic horror. (Not to mention pet lovers everywhere can identify)

Pick up Frankenweenie on DVD, Blu Ray and Digital Copy when it releases January 8th. Plus, check out these FREE Printable activities for the kids!

I received an advanced copy of Frankenweenie for review purposes. No other compensation was recieved and all opinions are all mine.