Mark Rivers, an NPR producer and Christmas movie classification expert, dives into the heated debate over what defines a true Christmas movie. He shines a light on iconic films like 'Die Hard' and 'Elf,' offering a unique classification system that challenges conventional wisdom. Rivers discusses how emotional resonance and holiday themes influence our connections to these films. He also explores the concept of tiered Christmas movies, highlighting how some use the holiday as mere backdrop, making the discourse both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The debate over whether 'Die Hard' is a Christmas movie illustrates the complex relationship between holiday themes and film genres.
Christmas movies can be categorized into three tiers based on their plot significance, reflecting personal nostalgia and traditions in viewers' preferences.
Deep dives
The Christmas Movie Debate
The question of whether 'Die Hard' is a Christmas movie has sparked extensive debate in pop culture. Many fans passionately argue both sides, citing its Christmas party setting and some holiday themes versus its predominantly action-oriented plot. This contention has been supported by celebrities, with actors like Edward Norton and Ethan Hawke voicing their opinions that 'Die Hard' qualifies as a Christmas film, while Bruce Willis humorously claims it is primarily a Bruce Willis movie. Ultimately, this discourse highlights the broader conversation about what defines a Christmas movie beyond mere seasonal setting.
Defining Christmas Movies
The podcast delves into categorizing Christmas movies into three distinct tiers to clarify what makes a film a holiday classic. The first tier consists of movies where Christmas is central to the plot, such as 'A Christmas Story' and 'Elf', making it indispensable to the storyline. The second tier includes films where Christmas serves as a backdrop or instigator for the plot, allowing for alterations without losing the core narrative, like 'Home Alone' or surprisingly, 'It's a Wonderful Life'. The third tier features films where Christmas is merely ornamental, existing in the background without affecting the plot, exemplified by films like 'Eyes Wide Shut'.
Personal Connections to Holiday Films
The sentiment around Christmas movies is deeply personal, with individual preferences shaped by nostalgia and family traditions. For example, the producer mentions how 'Elf' is a must-watch during the holidays, as it embodies the essential spirit and magic of Christmas. Additionally, movies like 'The Apartment' offer a cozy feel despite being less conventional holiday films, showcasing how personal connections dictate what qualifies as a Christmas movie. Ultimately, the choice of holiday films can vary widely, reflecting the comfort and joy they bring to viewers, regardless of their seasonal relevance.