Quote of the Week

20th Century Fox

Oh, Christmas isn't just a day, it's a frame of mind...and that's what's been changing. That's why I'm glad I'm here, maybe I can do something about it.

- Kris Kringle, Miracle on 34th Street

Santa Claus Is Coming To Town

Disney

There are so many fantastic Christmas movies. And many of them feature one of the most recognizable figures of Christmas: Santa Claus. Whether you know him as Santa, Father Christmas, or Saint Nicholas, his stories and adventures, both old and new, can make for great holiday watching. Here are a few of my favorite movies starring the loveable gift-giver with the belly that shakes like a bowl full of jelly.

First up are several different versions of Santa's origin story.

Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town - Fred Astaire, as the Postman, tells the story of how a baby named Claus became Santa in this Rankin Bass movie. After he's taken in by a family of toy-making elves and renamed Kris Kringle, he begins bringing toys to the village of Sombertown to bring joy to the children there. A series of adventures, and misadventures, lead him to meet the future Mrs. Claus, move to the North Pole, and become the jolly fellow we know and love. 

The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus - In this story by L. Frank Baum, author of the Wizard of Oz series, Santa began life as an infant abandoned near an enchanted forest. Baby Nicholas was taken in by a wood nymph named and raised him in a magical world. He learns about the sad and difficult world of humans, leading him to his lifelong gift-giving mission. This film features an amazing cast of voices, including Robby Benson, Dixie Carter, and Hal Holbrook.

Santa & Pete - This unique film has been one of my favorites since the first time I saw it. It tells the story of the Dutch Santa (portrayed by the amazing Hume Cronyn) and his helper, Black Peter. The story begins with master storyteller James Earl Jones as a Grandfather teaching his grandson about Santa and Pete. Full of wonderful references to the historical Santa, this story focuses on what happens when Santa and Pete arrive in the New World. Although Santa is rather set in his ways, their adventures in New Amsterdam force him to rethink his Christmas traditions.

Klaus - While rather unusual, this film is absolutely charming. Told by Jesper, the unwilling Postman of Smeerensburg, it's a story that proves "a true act of good will always spark another." Klaus is a lonely woodsman who lives far from town. Through a chance encounter, Jesper and Klaus begin delivering toys to the children of Smeerensburg, changing all their lives in the process.

And here are a few where Santa struggles with the dwindling Christmas spirit in the world.

The Year Without A Santa Claus - This is another classic from Rankin Bass. When Santa wakes up with a cold in December, he decides he won't deliver gift this year. In an effort to change his mind and show him that he's truly needed, Mrs Claus sends two elves, Jingle and Jangle, to Southtown. They get into all sorts of trouble along the way, meeting the Miser Brothers and Mother Nature before finally convincing Santa to take his annual Christmas ride.

Miracle on 34th Street - This is a wonderful story that can make anyone believe again. When he is hired to be Santa in the Macy's Thanksgiving day Parade, Kris Kringle is so wonderful, that they decide to keep him on as the official Santa of Macy's. With his help, everyone begins to put the spirit back into Christmas. But when he angers one of the employees, he is put on trial for insanity. Can his lawyer prove that he is "the one and only Santa Claus" or is he "just a nice old man with whiskers like mother said"?

Violent Night - This movie is definitely not for kids. It is rated R for violence and language. Santa is feeling very disillusioned with the world when he accidentally stumbles into a hostage situation involving a little girl who truly believes in Santa Claus, and her horrible extended family. In this version, Santa was once a Viking warrior, and he must put his old skills to work to save young Trudy and her family. It was recently announced that a sequel will be coming to theaters next Christmas. 

Next up, we have stories of new people taking on the role of Santa Claus, willingly or not.

The Santa Clause -  There's a lot to enjoy here with three movies and a two season series. Starring Tim Allen as Santa, these are great stories that support the existence of Santa Claus in an ever changing form.

• The Santa Clause tells how Scott Calvin, an executive for a toy company, became Santa, much to the delight of his son Charlie. 
• In The Santa Clause 2, Santa must seek a wife or he'll have to stop being Santa. 
• By The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause, Santa and Mrs. Claus are expecting a baby. Will Santa stay Santa or will he employ the "Escape Clause?" 
• The Santa Clauses Season 1 sees Scott Calvin once again struggling to stay Santa. He and his family love living at the North Pole, but worry that it might be time to hand the reins to someone new.
• In The Santa Clauses Season 2, Mad Santa seeks to take back the job of Santa Claus as Scott Calvin tries to prepare his son Cal for the role.

Arthur Christmas - This is a wonderful story about Christmas, magic, and the importance of family. Arthur is Santa's youngest son. He's a bit of a klutz and afraid of everything, but he has a good heart. On Christmas Eve, Santa and his oldest son, Steve, head out in a spaceship sleigh to deliver presents to the children of the world, with an efficient and modern flair. But this Christmas, a gift was left undelivered, and it seems only Arthur understands the importance of finding a gift from Santa under the tree on Christmas morning. So, Arthur, Grandsanta, and a wrapping elf named Bryony set out to make things right.

Noelle - Santa's daughter is full of the Christmas spirit, but a bit lost when it comes to her role at the North Pole. When her brother Nick begins training to become Santa, the results are disastrous, so she tries to help by suggesting he take a little vacation. Unfortunately, he decides not to come back, so Noelle must find him and convince him to return to save Christmas.

The Claus Family Trilogy - Young Jules is feeling lost after the sudden death of his father. His family has recently moved and he has just discovered that his grandfather Noël is Santa Claus. When he learns that he is meant to take over as Santa in a few years, he rebels, but eventually discovers the magic of Christmas. In the second film, Jules tries to help a young girl bring her family back together. And in the third, Jules' little sister Noor discovers that Noël is Santa, but can she keep the secret? 

And finally, we have the movies that are about Santa, but are told by Santa's companions.

Prep & Landing - When Prep and Landing Elves arrive in a child's home, their job is to get everything ready for the arrival of Santa. But when Wayne the elf is passed over for a promotion, he decides not to do his job, with disastrous results. 

Prep and Landing: Naughty vs Nice - There are two types of Elves that visit homes on Christmas Eve: Prep and Landing Elves who visit nice kids, and the Coal Elf Brigade who visit naughty kids. This year, Wayne must work with his Coal Elf baby brother Noel to stop a naughty kid from ruining Christmas for kids everywhere.

Red One - This is a wild and crazy ride of a movie, with lots of mythological Christmas characters and a fun story.   When Santa, code name Red One", goes missing, Calum Drift, his head of security, immediately begins searching for him. After reluctantly teaming up with bounty hunter (and Level 4 Naughty Lister) Jack O'Malley, they head off on an adventure to save Santa. 

Quote of the Week

20th Century Studios

Oh, Christmas isn't just a day,

it's a frame of mind...

and that's what's been changing.

That's why I'm glad I'm here,

maybe I can do something about it.

- Kris Kringle, Miracle on 34th Street

Christmas Movies for Adults

While these movies mostly don't contain obvious adult themes, most kids would find them boring. I love these Christmas movies and have watched all of them many, many times.

White Christmas - This has been my favorite Christmas movie for as long as I can remember. Starring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera Ellen, this is a fantastic story about helping an old friend. Bing and Danny are a popular song and dance duo who agree to help Rosemary and Vera with their act. The girls are the sisters of an "old pal in the army." When they follow the sisters up to Vermont for the Christmas holidays, they run into their old general from their army days during WWII, who has fallen on hard times. In an effort to help him out, they decide to bring their show up to his inn to bring in guests. After many crazy mishaps, everything comes together just in time for Christmas. Featuring many wonderful songs, including "Sisters", "Count Your Blessings" and "White Christmas", this is one you shouldn't miss.

Miracle on 34th Street - Is he "the one and only Santa Claus" or "just a nice old man with whiskers like mother said"? Starring Maureen O'Hara, Natalie Wood, and Edmund Gwenn as Kris Kringle, this is a wonderful story that will make everyone believe again. Kris Kringle is hired to be Santa in the Macy's Thanksgiving day Parade. He is so wonderful, that they decide to keep him on as the official Santa of Macy's. With Kris's help, everyone begins to put the spirit back into Christmas. When he angers one of the employees, he is put on trial for insanity. Can his lawyer prove that he is Santa?

The Man Who Saved Christmas - This is the amazing story of A.C. "Gillie" Gilbert, inventor of Erector Sets. After years of making toys with the help of his beloved wife, Mary,  and brother, Frank, Gillie is presented with a problem. America has recently joined the fighting during WWI and his brother has been drafted. Gillie is asked to convert his factory to make munitions instead of toys. After a chance comment leads Congress to cancel Christmas, Gillie's son Al and his mother create some holiday magic to help Gillie recover his holiday spirit and save Christmas. Starring the incomparable Jason Alexander as Gillie, this movie, although sad at times, is wonderful proof that Christmas should always be celebrated.

Silent Night - Another in the tradition of Christmas during times of war films. Based on a true story and starring Linda Hamilton, this is the story of young Fritz and his mother, who are fleeing Germany on Christmas Eve 1944. Fritz and Elizabeth Vincken leave their home in the dark of night and head for their cabin near the front lines. Before they can settle in for Christmas, a knock at the door brings both American soldiers with their injured comrade, and German soldiers searching for the enemy. Frau Vincken, a very strong-willed woman, forces them to relinquish their weapons and spend Christmas together. By the end of the evening, they have begun to see each other as men and not as enemies.

The Holiday - For a twist on traditional Christmas movies, try The Holiday. When two women worlds apart each suffer heartbreak shortly before Christmas, they decide to swap houses for a change of scenery. Through a series of misadventures, each finds that love can be found again and Christmas may be the perfect time for something new. Starring Cameron Diaz, Jude Law, Kate Winslet, and Jack Black, this is a fun Christmas romance. And I love the way Kate Winslet's character helps her elderly neighbor to see that he is important and loved. It's wonderful!

Christmas Movies for Adults

20th Century Fox

Here are a few more of my favorite Christmas movies. While these movies mostly don't contain obvious adult themes, a lot of kids might find them boring. I love these Christmas movies and have watched all of them many, many times.

White Christmas - This has been my favorite Christmas movie for as long as I can remember. Starring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera Ellen, this is a fantastic story about helping an old friend. Bing and Danny are a popular song and dance duo who agree to help Rosemary and Vera with their act. The girls are the sisters of an "old pal in the army." When they follow the sisters up to Vermont for the Christmas holidays, they run into their old general from their army days during WWII, who has fallen on hard times. In an effort to help him out, they decide to bring their show up to his inn to bring in guests. After many crazy mishaps, everything comes together just in time for Christmas. Featuring many wonderful songs, including "Sisters", "Count Your Blessings" and "White Christmas", this is one you shouldn't miss.

Miracle on 34th Street - Is he "the one and only Santa Claus" or "just a nice old man with whiskers like mother said"? Starring Maureen O'Hara, Natalie Wood, and Edmund Gwenn as Kris Kringle, this is a wonderful story that will make everyone believe again. Kris Kringle is hired to be Santa in the Macy's Thanksgiving day Parade. He is so wonderful, that they decide to keep him on as the official Santa of Macy's. With Kris's help, everyone begins to put the spirit back into Christmas. When he angers one of the employees, he is put on trial for insanity. Can his lawyer prove that he is Santa?

The Man Who Saved Christmas - This is the amazing story of A.C. "Gillie" Gilbert, inventor of Erector Sets. After years of making toys with the help of his beloved wife, Mary,  and brother, Frank, Gillie is presented with a problem. America has recently joined the fighting during WWI and his brother has been drafted. Gillie is asked to convert his factory to make munitions instead of toys. After a chance comment leads Congress to cancel Christmas, Gillie's son Al and his mother create some holiday magic to help Gillie recover his holiday spirit and save Christmas. Starring the incomparable Jason Alexander as Gillie, this movie, although sad at times, is wonderful proof that Christmas should always be celebrated.

Silent Night - Another in the tradition of Christmas during times of war films. Based on a true story and starring Linda Hamilton, this is the story of young Fritz and his mother, who are fleeing Germany on Christmas Eve 1944. Fritz and Elizabeth Vincken leave their home in the dark of night and head for their cabin near the front lines. Before they can settle in for Christmas, a knock at the door brings both American soldiers with their injured comrade, and German soldiers searching for the enemy. Frau Vincken, a very strong-willed woman, forces them to relinquish their weapons and spend Christmas together. By the end of the evening, they have begun to see each other as men and not as enemies.

The Holiday - For a twist on traditional Christmas movies, try The Holiday. When two women worlds apart each suffer heartbreak shortly before Christmas, they decide to swap houses for a change of scenery. Through a series of misadventures, each finds that love can be found again and Christmas may be the perfect time for something new. Starring Cameron Diaz, Jude Law, Kate Winslet, and Jack Black, this is a fun Christmas romance. And I love the way Kate Winslet's character helps her elderly neighbor to see that he is important and loved. It's wonderful!

Christmas Movies for Kids, Part 1

I love Christmas movies! I'm afraid I'm rather addicted to them. I have so many favorites anymore, that I start watching them just after Halloween. Some are traditional movies that my family has watched for years. In fact, it's a family tradition to watch Miracle on 34th Street every year during the long Thanksgiving weekend. (And it has to be the old version with Edmund Gwenn and Maureen O'Hara, although we enjoy both the black and white and colorized versions.) In honor of this long standing tradition, I thought I would share some of our favorite holiday films with you. Today, we'll start with great holiday films for kids of any age.

Eloise at Christmastime - The first Christmas that this was on tv, we kept missing the beginning. By the time we finally were able to watch the entire movie, we'd seen parts of it 4-5 times. After seeing it so many times, my grandfather said, "Not that little girl again!" It's one of my favorite memories of him. Eloise is a precocious 6 year old who lives at the Plaza hotel. She's a bit of a trouble maker and match maker who somehow always manages to evade punishment for her adventures. We LOVE Eloise and Julie Andrews as Nanny, too!


Eloise: Little Miss Christmas - Eloise and her friends at the Plaza decide to put on a Christmas Spectacular, but with a review of the hotel coming the day before Christmas, Mr. Salamone may cancel the show. What will Eloise do? A fun, short, animated film, this story of the spunky 6 year old will quickly become a favorite with your kids as well. This movie feature the voice talents of Lynn Redgrave as Nanny and Tim Curry as Mr. Salamone.


Emmett Otter's Jugband Christmas - Every fan of the Muppets should own a copy of this movie. Featuring the fantastic talents of the original band of Muppeteers, this story is one that shouldn't be missed. Emmett and his Ma both want to give each other the best Christmas present ever, but with money in short supply, they each decide to enter the town talent contest. Will the risk pay off, or will they both lose it all? Watch this wonderful story to find out.

Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas - Featuring three Christmas stories full of love, magic and surprises, this film is sure to delight. In a story reminiscent of O. Henry's Gift of the Magi, Mickey and Minnie remember the year they gave up what they thought was most dear to give gifts to each other. Goofy and Max recall the year Max stopped believing in Santa and the adventure that eventually made him see why belief is important, although a visit from the real Santa always helps. Huey, Dewey, and Louie remember the year they wished for Christmas every day and what it took them to learn what the holiday is really about.

Mickey's Twice Upon a Christmas - Featuring four new stories of love and magic. Minnie and Daisy are both a part of the ice skating show. Can they put aside their competition and put on their ice spectacular? Uncle Scrooge warns Huey, Dewey, and Louie that their behavior will keep them off Santa's good list, so they travel to the North Pole to fix the problem. While there, they discover that Christmas is about sharing and caring. Max is bringing home a girl for Christmas, but can he count on Goofy not to embarrass him? Donald just wants to sit at home with his cocoa, but Daisy and his nephews have other ideas. Can Donald find his Christmas spirit before its too late? Finally, Mickey has created what he thinks is the perfect Christmas party, but when Pluto wrecks it and then runs away, he realizes that parties are nothing without your friends.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas! - This classic animated tale tells the story of the grumpy old Grinch who lives on Mount Crumpet and his hatred of the Whos who live in Whoville below. As the story goes "Every WHO down in WHOVILLE liked Christmas a lot, but the Grinch, who lived just north of WHOVILLE did not!" Narrated by the incredible Boris Karloff with a song sung by Thurl Ravenscroft (who also voiced Tony the Tiger as well as one of the singing busts in Disney's Haunted Mansion attractions.")


Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas - George and the Man with the Yellow Hat are preparing to celebrate Christmas. From Christmas trees with chairs in them to tomato snowman, everything is uniquely perfect for the happy pair. There's just one problem, the Man is having trouble understanding George's wishlist and George doesn't know what to get for the man who has everything. It all works out in typical George fashion and even has a few new songs, like "Are you ready?" and "Christmas Monkey".

Original Television Christmas Classics - There are several different versions of this set available. My favorites from them include: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, narrated by the wonderful Burl Ives, Frosty the Snowman narrated by Jimmy Durante, Santa Claus is Coming to Town featuring Fred Astaire & Mickey Rooney, The Cricket on the Hearth, and the Little Drummer Boy. All are wonderful old classics that are fun to watch at Christmas.
Although not generally included, another old classic is Frosty's Winter Wonderland narrated by Andy Griffith. Frosty makes a Missus and hilarity ensues.

The Happy Elf - This wacky story, narrated by Harry Connick, Jr., is the story of Eubie, one of Santa's elves, who is always deliriously happy, much to the annoyance of those around him. When Eubie learns that there is an entire town of children on Santa's naughty list, he sets out to help them find the spirit of Christmas and get back on the nice list. In the process, he helps himself and his friends to achieve their dream of being part of Santa's sleigh team.

Quote of the Week

20th Century Fox

Christmas isn't just a day.

It's a frame of mind.

- Kris Kringle,

Miracle on 34th Street

Christmas Movies To Put You In The Holiday Spirit

Jim Henson Company

I love Christmas movies! From animated Disney tales to every possible version of Dickens' A Christmas Carol, I can easily find a movie for every day of the month. Here are a few of my favorites.

Eloise at Christmastime

Eloise: Little Miss Christmas

Emmett Otter's Jugband Christmas

Mickey's Once Upon A Christmas

Mickey's Twice Upon A Christmas

How The Grinch Stole Christmas

Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas

Prep & Landing

Prep & Landing: Naughty vs Nice

How to Train Your Dragon: Gift of the Night Fury

Shrek the Halls

Kung Fu Panda Holiday

Merry Madagascar

Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas Special

Disney

Beauty and the Beast: Enchanted Christmas

Yes, Virginia

The Santa Clause Trilogy

The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus

Santa and Pete

The Polar Express

Muppet Christmas Carol

Arthur Christmas

Klaus

The Nutcracker and the Four Realms

TNT

White Christmas

Miracle on 34th Street

The Man Who Saved Christmas

Silent Night

The Holiday

A Christmas Carol

Scrooge

A Christmas Carol: The Musical

And here are a few more I've discovered recently.

Illumination

The Grinch - This delightful retelling of the Grinch shows him as hating Christmas simply because he's lonely. In this version, he's not terribly mean, even to his dog Max, just a bit ornery when it comes to how the Whos down in Who-ville celebrate Christmas. 

DreamWorks

How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming - Hiccup and Astrid are preparing to celebrate Snoggletog in New Berk when they discover that their kids don't understand dragons. At the same time, Toothless' children are trying to understand their father's obsession with Hiccup. All of the kids will discover something new this holiday.

Bleecker Street

The Man Who Invented Christmas - Have you ever wondered about the man behind A Christmas Carol? Charles Dickens changed our views of Christmas, making it an important and charitable holiday, with the incredible story of Ebenezer Scrooge. This movie tells the story of Scrooge's creation.

Christmas Movies for Kids Part 1

I love Christmas movies! I'm afraid I'm rather addicted to them. I have so many favorites anymore, that I start watching them just after Halloween. Some are traditional movies that my family has watched for years. In fact, it's a family tradition to watch Miracle on 34th Street every year during the long Thanksgiving weekend. (And it has to be the old version with Edmund Gwenn and Maureen O'Hara, although we enjoy both the black and white and colorized versions.) In honor of this long standing tradition, I thought I would share some of our favorite holiday films with you. Today, we'll start with great holiday films for kids of any age.

Eloise at Christmastime - The first Christmas that this was on tv, we kept missing the beginning. By the time we finally were able to watch the entire movie, we'd seen parts of it 4-5 times. After seeing it so many times, my grandfather said, "Not that little girl again!" It's one of my favorite memories of him. Eloise is a precocious 6 year old who lives at the Plaza hotel. She's a bit of a trouble maker and match maker who somehow always manages to evade punishment for her adventures. We LOVE Eloise and Julie Andrews as Nanny, too!


Eloise: Little Miss Christmas - Eloise and her friends at the Plaza decide to put on a Christmas Spectacular, but with a review of the hotel coming the day before Christmas, Mr. Salamone may cancel the show. What will Eloise do? A fun, short, animated film, this story of the spunky 6 year old will quickly become a favorite with your kids as well. This movie feature the voice talents of Lynn Redgrave as Nanny and Tim Curry as Mr. Salamone.


Emmett Otter's Jugband Christmas - Every fan of the Muppets should own a copy of this movie. Featuring the fantastic talents of the original band of Muppeteers, this story is one that shouldn't be missed. Emmett and his Ma both want to give each other the best Christmas present ever, but with money in short supply, they each decide to enter the town talent contest. Will the risk pay off, or will they both lose it all? Watch this wonderful story to find out.

Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas - Featuring three Christmas stories full of love, magic and surprises, this film is sure to delight. In a story reminiscent of O. Henry's Gift of the Magi, Mickey and Minnie remember the year they gave up what they thought was most dear to give gifts to each other. Goofy and Max recall the year Max stopped believing in Santa and the adventure that eventually made him see why belief is important, although a visit from the real Santa always helps. Huey, Dewey, and Louie remember the year they wished for Christmas every day and what it took them to learn what the holiday is really about.

Mickey's Twice Upon a Christmas - Featuring four new stories of love and magic. Minnie and Daisy are both a part of the ice skating show. Can they put aside their competition and put on their ice spectacular? Uncle Scrooge warns Huey, Dewey, and Louie that their behavior will keep them off Santa's good list, so they travel to the North Pole to fix the problem. While there, they discover that Christmas is about sharing and caring. Max is bringing home a girl for Christmas, but can he count on Goofy not to embarrass him? Donald just wants to sit at home with his cocoa, but Daisy and his nephews have other ideas. Can Donald find his Christmas spirit before its too late? Finally, Mickey has created what he thinks is the perfect Christmas party, but when Pluto wrecks it and then runs away, he realizes that parties are nothing without your friends.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas! - This classic animated tale tells the story of the grumpy old Grinch who lives on Mount Crumpet and his hatred of the Whos who live in Whoville below. As the story goes "Every WHO down in WHOVILLE liked Christmas a lot, but the Grinch, who lived just north of WHOVILLE did not!" Narrated by the incredible Boris Karloff with a song sung by Thurl Ravenscroft (who also voiced Tony the Tiger as well as one of the singing busts in Disney's Haunted Mansion attractions.")


Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas - George and the Man with the Yellow Hat are preparing to celebrate Christmas. From Christmas trees with chairs in them to tomato snowman, everything is uniquely perfect for the happy pair. There's just one problem, the Man is having trouble understanding George's wishlist and George doesn't know what to get for the man who has everything. It all works out in typical George fashion and even has a few new songs, like "Are you ready?" and "Christmas Monkey".

Original Television Christmas Classics - There are several different versions of this set available. My favorites from them include: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, narrated by the wonderful Burl Ives, Frosty the Snowman narrated by Jimmy Durante, Santa Claus is Coming to Town featuring Fred Astaire & Mickey Rooney, The Cricket on the Hearth, and the Little Drummer Boy. All are wonderful old classics that are fun to watch at Christmas.
Although not generally included, another old classic is Frosty's Winter Wonderland narrated by Andy Griffith. Frosty makes a Missus and hilarity ensues.

The Happy Elf - This wacky story, narrated by Harry Connick, Jr., is the story of Eubie, one of Santa's elves, who is always deliriously happy, much to the annoyance of those around him. When Eubie learns that there is an entire town of children on Santa's naughty list, he sets out to help them find the spirit of Christmas and get back on the nice list. In the process, he helps himself and his friends to achieve their dream of being part of Santa's sleigh team.