The Halloween Tree (1993)

Very very predictable, including the post credit scene !!!

It is not deep, but it is fun to watch. It does have a bit more of an edge to it than other similar films.

Fanciful, disturbing, and wildly original, it announces the arrival of a fresh, bold voice in American cinema.

This is a coming of age storyline that you've seen in one form or another for decades. It takes a truly unique voice to make yet another one worth watching.

I'm a huge Ray Bradbury fan so I was excited to see this animated adaptation of his great novel The Halloween Tree. Bradbury himself scripted this movie and even provided the narration. The story is magical, poetic, and even educational. I would recommend it for parents to share with their kids. It's beautiful.Interestingly, Bradbury wrote the novel after he had collaborated on a Halloween Tree screenplay with the great Chuck Jones for an animated film that never came to be. As pleasant and enjoyable as the animation is in this version, one can only wonder how amazing the collaboration between two greats of their respective mediums would have been.

"Wow" is truly the only word to describe this movie, and not in a good way. First, the animation is clearly cheaply done and looks more like a fifteen minute show on cartoon network than a film. Leonard Nemoy does give his voice talents, however "Mountrouds" voice is horribly annoying, especially after about an hour of watching the film. The story is bad and extremely confusing, especially for youngsters. Also, the "educational" trip through time fails to mention all-hallows-eve, the real history of Halloween. Oh yeah, and I forgot about the redeeming message in this film --- I'm still trying to figure that out. Friendship maybe...hmm? All together a terrible movie for adults and children alike. Do yourself a favor and rent out a disney film. 2/10

This is a cartoon that adults as well as children will enjoy. It helps to explain the why's of some of Halloween's favorite traditions. It was very well drawn and acted. Although some parts may frighten smaller children all in all it is very entertaining.

Ray Bradbury's cartoon adaptation of his own celebrated book is exquisite, and makes an excellent Halloween treat for kids & adults alike. The are many changes from the book, most notably in the creation of the strong female character of Jenny,(In Bradbury's original work there were many more children characters and they were all boys, boys who for the most part hated girls.) but when you watch the film all of these enhancements and modern additions not only fit but make it include a much larger audience. None of the changes feel forced. And with Ray Bradbury not only writing but narrating, this is a treasure not to pass up. It's value, as an educational tool for cultural diversity, can't be denied. The imagery is thrilling and beautiful as you travel around the world learning how Halloween came to be and how this very popular holiday was and is celebrated. Leonard Nimoy gives an outstanding performance as the spooky, and eccentric tour guide, Moundshroud. But most importantly this movie is fun. The story and animation are rich and lush and it's easy to see why this scary delight is a seasonal favorite and a must have in many households. Mine included.