1) What Christmas program/movie have you seen more times than any other?
That
would have to be A Charlie Brown Christmas. Not only did I watch it
every year as a child, but have continued to do so into adulthood. It's
still my favorite holiday special of all-time and the first thing I put
on to kick off the holiday season.
2) What is your favorite musical Christmas TV special, variety performance, or holiday song in a movie?
My
favorite song in a movie would probably be "Christmas Star" from Home
Alone 2, composed by the great John Williams. It immediately conjures up
a nostalgic, yet melancholy, feeling that makes me long for Christmas
past. It's just a top notch arrangement, along with the entire John
Williams score from Home Alone and Home Alone 2.
3) What's your favorite TV or movie adaptation of Dickens' A Christmas Carol?
I've
always found this to be an incredibly challenging question, as I love
most versions of A Christmas Carol. If I had to choose a sentimental
favorite it would be Mickey's Christmas Carol, because it was my first
introduction to the classic tale, otherwise it would probably have to be
the Alastair Sim version.
4) What do you think is the worst Christmas program/movie--or your least favorite, the most disappointing or most overrated?
Definitely
The Polar Express. The book itself is beautiful, so I was very excited
to see the film, but I found it to be downright creepy. Not only because
of the soulless eyes of the oddly animated characters, but also the
eerie music playing at the North Pole and unprecedented Santa worship.
I'm not crazy about the music in general or any of Tom Hank's character
portrayals.
5) If you were asked to give advice to a TV network executive in charge of holiday programming, what would you suggest?
I
would ask that they air Mr. Krueger's Christmas, starring James
Stewart. It's a touching little film that doesn't get near enough
exposure, but should absolutely be a classic. Aside from being just a
great reminder of the true meaning of Christmas, the beautiful
soundtrack provided by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir is the icing on the
cake.
Never watched The Polar Express, since that weird animation style turns me off, too. And never saw Mr. Krueger's Christmas, but sounds interesting.
ReplyDeleteI highly recommend checking it out! It can be hard to find, but it is posted on YouTube. https://youtu.be/EUH_UqxWK58
DeleteCompletely agree on Mr. Krueger's Christmas! i wish it had more TV time during the holidays and would be a great episode to air on Christmas eve!
ReplyDeleteI also love Mickeys Christmas Carol, very well done and a great way to introduce a younger audience to a timeless classic.
I too agree on Mr Krueger's Christmas!!
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteTo each their own, but we adore the Polar Express. It was the first movie my son ever watched, on his third Christmas, and he still loves it. We find it magical and still watch it ever single Christmas Eve. The music is amazing and while I get the Uncanny Valley argument of the motion capture animation, the charming story and intricate world building, along with that inspiring soundtrack, adds up to a classic, in my book.
DeleteI totally agree
DeleteTo each their own, but we adore the Polar Express. It was the first movie my son ever watched at 2, almost 3, and he still loves it. We find it magical and watch it ever single Christmas Eve. The music is amazing and while I get the Uncanny Valley argument of the motion capture animation.
ReplyDeleteUncompleted thought accidentally posted, and then unable to delete/edit. Corrected comment posted in reply above. Apologies for this; please feel free to delete.
DeleteLoved all your answers, Jakki! I know I have seen Charlie Brown every year, too, since childhood and it still touches me every time! "Christmas Star" is such a lovely song choice from Home Alone.
ReplyDeleteI'm also not too fond of The Polar Express "creepy" parts. To me, it ruins what could have been a sweet movie. I always thought I was alone in thinking that.
And, Mr. Krueger's Christmas is the most precious story. I, too, love that it tells the true meaning of Christmas! James Stewart is brilliant in it!
I'm a big fan of Mr. Krueger's Christmas too! I wish it was easier to find airing on TV. Thanks for reminding us about it, Jakki!
ReplyDeleteI agree with Jakki on The Polar Express. It leaves me cold - pun intended.
ReplyDelete