content rating:

Not Rated

author's note:

suitable for all ages

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Miracle on 34^th Street (1947)

Movie Facts

Release Year:

1947

Runtime:

97 minutes

Cast:

Maureen O'Hara

John Payne

Edmund Gwenn

Gene Lockhart

Natalie Wood

Porter Hall

William Frawley

Jerome Cowan

Philip Tonge

Director:

George Seaton

Producer:

William Perlberg

Basic Plot

When the Macy's Santa becomes inebriated prior to his appearance in their annual Christmas parade, white-whiskered Kris Kringle is hired on the spot to take his place.  He's an immediate hit with the crowd so he's offered the seasonal job in the toy department of Macy's store located on 34th Street.  The children accept the kindly old man as "the real thing" right away; the only problem is that Kris believes it too.  In fact, he's quite confident of it.  But he is challenged by the skepticism of those around him.  Most of all he's concerned about Susie, the young daughter of the no-nonsense parade organizer who raised her on a diet of reality.  Susie has no imagination...and no belief in Santa Claus.  When the store psychologist tries to have Kris committed, his lawyer friend is determined to defend Kris in a public court and prove he is the one and only Santa Claus.

Review

Many versions of this story have been created since this one debuted in 1947, but in our opinion, it outshines them all.  The warmth, that seems to be inherent in so many movies of that era, has never been duplicated.  But that's only one reason it has become a part of our viewing Christmas tradition.  Edmund Gwenn is perfect in this role as the benevolent Kris Kringle and a very young Natalie Wood is charming.  In fact, "charming" describes this movie in one word.  It's a great way to revisit your youth and remember Christmas is all about what's in your heart and what you believe.

Overall rating

   (out of a possible 5 bubble lights)