One of the classics in Christmas DVDs I have just gotten round to watching is the 1947 movie Miracle on 34th Street.
This movie won three Academy Awards and has everything a holiday classic should have The story is imaginative without losing its grip on reality. It revolves around Kris Kringle who gets the job of being Santa Claus at Macy’s department store. All children love him, only the event’s director Doris Walker is skeptic because Kringle keeps on claiming that he is the real Santa Claus.. Finally he even has to prove his identity before a court. Only a miracle can help now…

What’s especially interesting about this movie is its inherent consumer criticism. Even 60 years ago Christmas wasn’t what it was supposed to be. Without being too educational Miracle on 34th Street denounces the passion for consumerism in a witty way. Additionally the movie highlights the importance of faith in a non-annoying way. The adorable man with beard and red coat who can only survive if people believe in him brings viewer to questions their set of beliefs without forcing them too much. What is worth believing in? Is it possible that belief canmake your life richer? The viewer has the choice which many other movies lack.

But even without the message Miracle on 34th Street is lots of fun. Especially the cheeky character of Susan provides many laughs. And, of course, Edmund Gwenn who plays Kris Kringle. For his performance in this holiday gem Gwenn was awarded an Academy Award for best supporting actor. Some people claim that his depiction is the best Santa Claus the silver screen has ever seen.
Besides It’s A Wonderful Life Miracle On 34th Street is one of the classic holiday movies. The story is funny, imaginative and full of holiday romance. And its a gripping proof of the importance of faith. It brings its message across without being boring.
There’s also a 1994 remake out with Richard Attenborough reprising the role of Kris Kringle. But as far as I’m concerned nothing beats the original. Check out this interesting review on the Alternative Film Guide.

Which version do you prefer? Tell me in the comments!