The Art of Manliness Season’s Screenings — A Tour of Classic Christmas Movies
12 snips
Dec 18, 2023 
Jeremy Arnold, a film historian and author of "Christmas in the Movies: 35 Classics to Celebrate the Season," shares his insights into beloved holiday films. He explores what defines a Christmas movie, highlighting memorable classics from the 1940s. The debate on whether 'Die Hard' counts as a Christmas film gets explored, along with a discussion of the emotional depth in 'It's a Wonderful Life.' Listeners will also learn about romantic charm in 'The Shop Around the Corner' and discover lesser-known holiday gems worth watching.
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Early Christmas Films
- The earliest Christmas movie, "Santa Claus," dates back to 1898, a one-minute film from a British filmmaker.
- A 1901 film is considered the first adaptation of "A Christmas Carol," lasting three to four minutes.
1940s Christmas Movie Boom
- Many classic Christmas films were produced during the 1940s, influenced by the backdrop of World War II.
- The war's impact on families, both separating and reuniting them, resonated with audiences and added depth to the storytelling.
Christmas as a Narrative Device
- Christmas serves as a powerful narrative device due to its universal relatability and built-in tension.
- The date, December 25th, creates anticipation and drives storylines effectively.
