By Mario Martinez—

Based off of Tim Burton’s 1984 short film, Disney’s Frankenweenie is the dark tale of young Victor Frankenstein, a lonely boy with only one true friend—his dog Sparky. In the film, Victor is encouraged by his father to become a more active child and take up baseball instead of making quirky short films starring Sparky in the attic. Reluctantly Victor obeys his father’s wish until Sparky is struck by a car and killed. With inspiration from his eccentric science teacher Mr. Rzykruski, Victor retreats to his attic and dedicates himself to finding a way to bring his friend back to life. Successful in his endeavor, Victor tries to keep his zombie dog a secret but once the secret gets out, mayhem strikes as all the children of the town begin to bring their dead pets back to life.

With perfect timing for the fall season, Frankenweenie is this generation’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, but not as compelling or original. However, what Frankenweenie magically does is connect this generation with past ones through its 1950’s inspired black and white animation and homages throughout to Sci Fi classics such as Godzilla, The Wolfman and (of course) Frankenstein. With Burton’s signature gothic touch, each character embodies idiosyncratic qualities that make them all memorable and lovable. Rated “PG,” Frankenweenie appeals to not only children but adults as well (especially dog owners).

By embracing the idea of death and resurrection, Frankenweenie may be a little too dark for toddlers. Also, the film’s sensitive storyline may strike an emotional chord to anyone who has lost a friend in a dog (especially young children). With a magnificent musical score, Frankenweenie is aesthetic pleasure which can be enjoyed in 3D. Though it is a no The Nightmare Before Christmas, it still holds its own as one of Tim Burton’s best films of the last decade.

4 out of 5 Stars