The green, orange, and tentacled Harlequin Demon is covered in feathers and has a set of very sharp teeth. When screened for children in Hollywood before the film was released to mass audiences, Walt Disney Studios determined it was too scary for a G rating. With creepy characters, dark and creepy sets, and a storyline that might frighten younger kids, it was decided that the film would be released under the sister studio Touchstone Films with a PG rating. The title changed from The Nightmare Before Christmas, to Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas to attract an older audience who was familiar with his style and storytelling.

After premiering at the New York Film Festival on October 9, 1993, it was released to theaters, where it was branded a “sleeper hit.” American film critic Roger Ebert wrote in his review, “Selick’s achievement is enormous … First, go for the story. Then go back just to look in the corners of the screen and appreciate the little visual surprises and inspirations that are tucked into every nook and cranny.” Despite its quiet beginnings, with its home video and DVD rentals and sales, followed by multiple re-releases in theaters over the years, and a rebranding under the Disney banner, the film has grossed close to $100 million as of 2020, becoming a cult favorite across the globe.

The Harlequin Demon captures hearts like no other with his creepy smile and his hatmaking talents. This bottom-up pullover is worked flat and utilizes a bubble stitch in the body reminiscent of feathers. Contrast raglan sleeves capture his sporty nature with varsity stripes, and seams stabilizing the garment. Sleeves knit on a larger needle provide a natural curve along the seamlines ensuring an excellent fit, and a double tall, folded over collar ensures Halloween coziness.