205 - The Christmas Tree / Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
Dec 24, 2024
auto_awesome
Two films embody the essence of Christmas, with a deep dive into the emotional layers of 'The Christmas Tree.' The conversation reveals poignant father-son dynamics and nostalgic viewing experiences. Transitioning to 'Santa Claus Is Coming to Town,' they explore its whimsical storytelling and how Coca-Cola shaped the modern Santa image. The hosts reflect on cherished holiday specials, the cultural legacy of Rankin/Bass productions, and the surprising links between festive joy and darker themes in cinema. It’s a heartfelt exploration of holiday spirit and cinematic memory.
Quentin Tarantino and Roger Avary reflect on a poignant 1969 film, emphasizing the emotional connections between fathers and their terminally ill children.
The discussion reveals Terrence Young's stylistic versatility, showcasing his ability to create impactful narratives beyond his typical action genre.
Tarantino and Avary celebrate the enduring charm of 'Santa Claus is Coming to Town,' highlighting its nostalgic appeal during the holiday season.
Deep dives
The Emotional Story of Father and Son
A 1969 film directed by Terrence Young captures the emotional journey of a wealthy French-American tycoon, William Holden, who discovers that his son has a terminal illness after a tragic accident. The father's sense of urgency leads him to fulfill his son's every wish, no matter how extravagant, allowing them to create unforgettable memories during their limited time together. This tearjerker resonates deeply, especially for Quentin Tarantino and Roger Avery as they reflect on their experiences as fathers. The film cleverly uses the metaphor of a Christmas tree to signify the child's innocence and the father's love, which transforms the narrative into a heartfelt exploration of familial bonds and the sorrow that accompanies impending loss.
A Shift in Terrence Young's Career
Terrence Young, primarily known for his action films and the early James Bond franchise, takes a notable turn in his career with this melodramatic project. Although it appears to stray from the action genre, his directing style remains vivid, capturing intense emotional moments through masterful cinematic techniques. The film reflects Young's affinity for engaging storytelling, showcasing his ability to adapt to different narrative styles while maintaining his signature approach. This shift reveals Young's versatility as a filmmaker, allowing audiences to appreciate the broader range of his artistic talents.
The Ranking of Tearjerkers
The discussion delves into the popular trend of tear-jerking films from the early 1970s, encapsulated by titles like 'Love Story' and 'Summer of '42', which captivated audiences' emotions. This film aligns with that trend by violently tugging at heartstrings and exploring themes of love and devotion in the face of tragedy. Tarantino and Avery share their thoughts on how effective tearjerkers require careful structure and emotional setup to produce a genuine response. They appreciate the craftsmanship involved in creating a story that ultimately resonates with viewers, making them feel engaged and emotionally invested.
Rankin-Bass Christmas Classic
The conversation shifts to the Rankin-Bass Christmas classic 'Santa Claus is Coming to Town,' highlighting its unique charm and enduring appeal. This animated special blends nostalgia and warmth, as Fred Astaire narrates the origins of Santa Claus through delightful songs and whimsical storytelling. The lore surrounding Santa, his elves, and the struggles he faces in the storyline provides an engaging and entertaining backdrop, answering many questions children might have about the beloved figure. The interconnections between the characters and the seamless incorporation of holiday traditions create a magical viewing experience that captures the spirit of Christmas.
The Impact of The Holidays on Personal Connections
Both Tarantino and Avery express the significance of movies like 'Santa Claus is Coming to Town' in evoking powerful memories, particularly during the holiday season. The nostalgia attached to these films reignites memories of family gatherings and childhood joy, enhancing their emotional depth. As they bond over their shared experiences and connections to the characters, they highlight the importance of storytelling in bringing people together during the holidays. Ultimately, these films serve as a means to celebrate familial ties and the spirit of giving, resonating with audiences across generations.
On this episode of the Video Archives Podcast Quentin Tarantino and Roger Avary unpack the ornaments to decorate The Christmas Tree. Quentin and Roger share their perspectives watching this turgid tearjerker as fathers of sons, the cinematic moments they’ve never seen before, and Roger’s personal connection to Terrence Young.
Next up — we better get to sleep and put out the milk and cookies, because Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town! In this Rankin / Bass Christmas Classic, postman S.D. Kluger — voiced by Fred Astaire — answers some of the most important questions about Santa Claus himself. Through song and dance we meet colorful characters voiced by Mickey Rooney, Keenan Wynn, Paul Frees, Robie Lester, and Joan Gardner, and learn the true meaning of Christmas.
You can also write us a question by sending a letter to The Video Archives Podcast, 1014 South Westlake Boulevard, Suite #14-1328, Westlake Village, CA 91361.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode