Initial Reaction: The Nightmare Before Christmas

It's was a great idea for a film, rulers of respective holidays, with one of them growing disenchanted after doing the same old thing for possibly hundreds of years. Jack's plight is actually pretty realistic and relatable. 

All the characters are interesting, especially the literal two faced mayor and a gambling villain who doesn't really show up until the last half. 

All of the music and songs flow really well too. 

Hmm. I'm thinking right now at #8. 

Initial Reaction: The Little Mermaid

And so, Disney's foray back into the fairy tale is with a Hans Christian Anderson story. Despite a few changes to make it more family friendly, it's a good watch. And the animation has gone back to the vibrancy of previous films.

Ariel has interesting characterization in that she knows what she wants. And then goes after it. She's also the first Disney Princess to actually partake in the action. Eric is also the first Disney prince to not be aided by magic in saving the day. Disney's first battle couple.

Triton is just afraid of what the humans would do if they see Ariel, and he tries his best to convey it, but can't do so eloquently. Realistic parenting.

Ursula's motives aren't really clear except for revenge on something in the past. But she's largely doing it because she can. She's like Ratigan, only a bit more pragmatic.

Great music too.

So, initially, I'd put The Little Mermaid at #6.

Initial Reaction: Oliver & Company

Oliver Twist with animals. It's an extremely loose adaptation, so we can't be too purist about it. But the story itself is fairly interesting. The humor has good timing and the climax has a good amount of action.

Oliver isn't simply there to look cute, he actually does stuff, which is nice. But while Dodger has his soft side and isn't as tough as he looks, the rest of the dogs seem to be very bland. Cheech is funny as Tito though. Fagin seems pretty complex and likable after a while.

Sykes isn't a typical Disney villain and seems like Judge Doom. Only actually human and overtly criminal.

One song is good, the rest are annoying.

Initially, it seems like it would hit #12. Check back tomorrow.