A CHRISTMAS STORY (1983)
Film of the Day #246 - 25 Days of Christmas Movies #25
A CHRISTMAS STORY
1983 • Bob ClarkCast: Melinda Dillon, Darren McGavin, Peter Billingsley, Jean Shepherd, Ian Petrella, Scott Schwartz, R. D. Robb, Zack Ward, Tedde Moore, Leslie Carlson
Screenplay: Jean Shepherd, Leigh Brown, Bob Clark; Based on In God We Trust: All Others Pay Cash by Jean Shepherd
Cinematography: Reginald H. Morris
Music: Paul Zaza, Carl Zittrer
Producer: René Dupont, Bob Clark
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
You'll shoot your eye out, kid.
Merry Christmas. We come to the end of our Christmas countdown.
Every child knows what’s it’s like to want that perfect Christmas present. The longing, the pleading, the desperation of that ONE THING that you just can’t live without (for me, Christmas 1987, it was the Nintendeo Entertainment System.) A Christmas Story is the simple tale of Ralphie, a little boy who wants nothing more for Christmas than a B.B. gun. Not just any B.B. gun, mind you, but an Official Red Ryder Carbine-Action Two-Hundred-Shot Range Model Air Rifle (with this thing that tells time.) It seems everyone is against him… his mother, his teacher… heck, even Santa thinks he’ll shoot his eye out. But Ralphie is unrelenting in his desire for this perfect gift. This film is timeless because even though it was made in the 80s, and takes place in the 40s, everyone, young and old, can relate to Ralphie. A Christmas Story perfectly captures exactly what it’s like to be a kid on Christmas.
Set in the 1940s, A Christmas Story is a heartwarming comedy that follows the Parker family, particularly young Ralphie Parker (Peter Billingsley), as they navigate the ups and downs of the holiday season in a small town. The film is narrated by an adult Ralphie (Jean Shepherd), reminiscing about the Christmas when he was nine years old and desperately wanted a Red Ryder BB gun as his ultimate Christmas gift. Ralphie's quest for the coveted Red Ryder BB gun becomes the central focus of the story, as he faces various challenges and comedic hurdles along the way. From dealing with school bullies, including the infamous Scut Farkus (So help me, he had yellow eyes), to handling everyday family chaos, Ralphie's journey is a nostalgic trip down memory lane. The film brilliantly captures the essence of childhood and the universal experiences of growing up. Each character contributes to the relatable moments that make the movie a timeless classic. From Ralphie's little brother Randy (Ian Petrella) to his quirky father (Darren McGavin) and loving mother (Melinda Dillon), every member of the Parker family adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative.
Nostalgia is a powerful emotion, and attempting to capture it on film is no easy feat. A Christmas Story accomplishes this with finesse, transporting viewers back in time to an era where simple joys and family traditions reigned supreme. The film's success lies in its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia that resonates with audiences across generations. Director Bob Clark (director of the not-so-nostalgic Black Christmas) skillfully brings to life the charming and often humorous moments of childhood. The setting, costumes, and overall atmosphere contribute to the film's nostalgic appeal.
The movie is a treasure trove of memorable moments that resonate with viewers on a personal level. From the scene where Ralphie's best friend, Flick, gets his tongue stuck to a pole after a dare, to the iconic moment when Ralphie accidentally utters a profanity (“Only I didn’t say ‘Fudge’”) in front of his father, the film is a collection of relatable and laugh-out-loud instances. One of the standout scenes involves Ralphie finally standing up to his bully, Scut Farkus, in a cathartic and triumphant showdown. The film also explores the dynamics of sibling relationships through Ralphie's constant bickering with his little brother.
At its core, A Christmas Story" is a celebration of the magic of Christmas and the importance of family. The film beautifully captures the anticipation and yearning of children during the holiday season, making it a universal and timeless story. In the film's sweetest and most heartwarming scene, Ralphie's father comes through for him with the ultimate Christmas surprise. The joy and excitement on young Ralphie's face as he unwraps his final gift epitomize the true spirit of Christmas and the love that binds families together.
A Christmas Story remains a beloved holiday classic that effortlessly transports audiences to a simpler time filled with laughter, love, and the magic of Christmas. Its ability to perfectly capture nostalgia, coupled with memorable characters and relatable moments, ensures its place as a perennial favorite that continues to resonate with viewers of all ages. The film's enduring charm lies in its authenticity, making it a timeless treasure that will undoubtedly be cherished for generations to come.
- Aaah! "Fra-GEE-leh!" It must be Italian!
- Uh, I think that says FRAGILE, honey.
Notable Awards & Accomplishments
National Film Registry: Inducted in 2012
Streaming: MAX, Vix, TNT, TBS, Tru TV
Digital Rental/Purchase: Available at major digital retailers
Physical Media: Available on 4K, Blu-Ray and DVD
