I watched Corpse Bride having never seen The Nightmare Before Christmas, but it's obvious they both have the same sort of theme and are aimed at an artistic audience. I liked it, especially since it was new to me personally. Having seen so, so, sooooooo many annoying references to Nightmare Before Christmas, that still kind of spoiled it from being any better for me. Typically, I don't like musicals, but with Tim Burton the music and singing isn't quite as painful.... Usually because it's humorous. I'd say it was pretty good if you aren't already sick of animation de la mort.