Welcome to my first blog and first entry. What else would be more fitting on Christmas Day, than to write about Christmas films? I was watching a "then and now" program on tv about the stars of A Christmas Story. They are all stars, because it was an unsuccessful film that became a smash hit once released on television. And why wouldn't it be a success? The family, Ralphie, the classmates and friends are all characters we can relate to. For me, I identify with the brother Randy. The baby, Mom's favorite, etc. Specifically the scene when his mother bundles him up for the snow so much he starts to scream and cry that he can't put his arms down! I was about 10 years old when I first went with my parents to see snow, my mother did the same. My snow pants were so stiff that I couldn't bend my legs to get out of the backseat of the car! I remember once I was in the car and driving I put on a jacket, scarf and gloves to keep me warm, and when we arrived, my mother opening the door for me to get out of the car, and I remember not being able to bend my legs to move. My Mom began laughing, and then she helped me simplify the padding.
Some of my friends on facebook began posting about their favorite Christmas films. They mentioned The Grinch, The Polar Express, or if you have no kids in the house you might be watching Bad Santa like my family. Although Bad Santa is a great film, it doesn't capture the essence of the holiday season for me personally. I enjoy classics like White Christmas, It's a Wonderful Life, Miracle on 34th Street, and the classically animated features usually on abc family. For me personally, nothing beats some Bing Crosby and a little magic to really make the season come to life. I recently watched Rise of the Guardians for the first time. It isn't a Christmas film, but it has the same emotional foundation as The Polar Express, and Miracle on 34th Street. It's the magic behind the holiday that keeps kids and their families involved. The magic contributes to their imagination. As children get older, the adults have the opportunity to educate them on the spirit of the season and Jesus Christ.
Perhaps these films are intended to remind us that Christmas isn't about novelty, but about family. Every film I have named above, shares the common denominator that no one should be alone or unhappy during the holidays. And it doesn't matter where you're from, the color of your skin, how much money you have, or if your heart happens to be 3 sizes too small, people come together to give, share, and love. It's the one time per year the magic consumes us, makes us feel good, and we have a sense of peace.
If only that magic lasted all year around.
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