MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET (1947) | FIRST TIME WATCHING | MOVIE REACTION

[@LashLeRoux.1]

I watched this movie with a girl I was dating in high school. We were both well past our "believing in Santa Claus" years. When the movie concluded she looked at me wide eyed and said, "What if there really is a Santa Claus and he's been locked away in the booby hatch by some stupid psychologist?" That's when I fell in love for the first time. How could I not?

[@gdiaz8827]

Booby hatch? I have never heard it called that before.

[@thecaptain9590]

It's impossible for me to not cry at the Dutch girl scene. The context of her being adopted by an American family shortly after WWII should reduce anyone to tears. How joyous she becomes as she realizes she's met the real Santa. Can't get any more heartwarming than that.

[@ljbimoore]

Yep, all teary, every time! 😍🥹

[@cinemaniac78]

This was my first time seeing the film, and that scene was absolutely my favorite. It really got to me, as well.

[@tallhair]

I’ve seen this many times. One of my favorite Christmas films. That scene gets me too

[@QBAN2010]

The 1990s remake is excellent too. Highly recommended!!!

[@tallhair]

@@QBAN2010 I almost said that. I really like both versions!

[@kenfreeman8888]

The Dutch girl was orphaned in World War 2 and adopted by the woman who brought her to see Santa Claus. According to a Dutch person online, Kris asked her in Dutch what she wanted for Christmas, and in Dutch she said, "The only thing I want is to be with this lovely lady."

[@gordondeprest]

Well if I wasn't crying before, that definitely did it.

[@phousefilms]

Oof, just hit my heart. Made a noise like Dr.Evil when he's overly emotional.

[@maryrichardson1318]

This is my absolute favorite Christmas movie. My grandson is now 4 and is questioning the existence of Santa. I tell him that I still believe. And I have good reason. When I was in high school, my cousin and I worked in the Santa booth at one of the smaller malls in town. One evening, Santa called in sick, so we needed someone to fill in. After calling all of our friends, to no avail, I called my daddy. I asked him to check at his bank office for some underpaid teller who wanted some extra cash. Within the hour, my daddy suited up and became one of the best Santas the mall had ever seen. He stayed with us through the season. Even after I left home, he continued to play Santa in the mall, moving to the largest mall in town. Mom made him a beautiful velvet Santa suit and she made herself a Mrs. Claus outfit. Until the year before he died, my daddy played Santa for church, the Lion's Club, Rotary Club, and for friends and family, and never took a single penny for those times. When someone asks if I believe in Santa, I say of course, he's my Daddy.

[@melenatorr]

FYI the scene with the Dutch girl is very poignant: her adoptive mother explains she was in an orphanage in Rotterdam "since ....". Rotterdam was subject to an infamous bombing in 1940. This little girl has been in that city till very recently, having "just come over", in 1947.

[@dongilleo9743]

In the winter of 1944-45, the Nazis cut off food shipments from the the Netherlands from the countryside into the major cities like Rotterdam. There were many deaths from starvation and malnutrition. Parents would give what food was available to their children, instead of keeping it for themselves. After the war, thousands of orphaned children from Europe were brought to the United States and Canada to be adopted into new families. When this movie was released in 1947, just a couple of years after the war, everyone in the audience would have been aware of this Dutch girl's circumstances, making it an extremely heartfelt moment. Watching this movie is also a poignant look into the past, and a reminder of how blessed we are here in the U.S.. New York in 1947 was a prosperous, happy place. Many of the major cities in Europe at that time were still in ruins, with hundreds of thousands if not millions of displaced persons and refugees

[@DavidAPiano]

Natalie Wood was such a talent, so natural as Susan.

[@Merknilash]

It’s disgusting that Robert Wagner killed her on that boat and got away with it Christopher Walken was there too

[@Cadinho93]

"Christmas isn't just a day, it's a frame of mind." Fun Fact: When Edmund Gwenn accepted his Best Supporting Actor Oscar, he said, "Now I know there's a Santa Claus." Also, the film was shot during a bitterly cold New York winter. On several occasions, the cameras literally froze. Maureen O'Hara remembered that a woman named Vaughn Mele lived across the street from where they were shooting exteriors and allowed the crew to warm up in her house. In gratitude, Maureen O'Hara took her and her husband to the famed "21" restaurant, she was so excited all she could drink was a glass of milk.

[@steveleslie2170]

Don't DM this... it's fake.

[@mgonzales56]

​@@steveleslie2170 You are a humbug scrooge.

[@johnnehrich9601]

The cigar-smoking advisor to the judge was William Frawley, who within a few years went on to lasting fame (at least to us old timers) as Fred Mertz on the I Love Lucy show (which in addition to being a great comedy series, was a unique phenomenon, coming at the very dawn of the tv age. (It was so popular that the water pressure dropped all over Manhattan whenever a commercial came on and all of New York City took a bathroom break.)

[@dianafrost936]

He was in The Lemon Drop Kid also which starred Bob Hope. It's a Christmas movie too.

[@SirPaladin]

​so they don't say it but the Dutch girl is obviously a war orphan. that would've hit audiences a LOT harder in '47...

[@stretch4872]

I've been stuck in bed very sick for several days but for the last 30 minutes I was pain free feeling the joy of Christmas pouring out of you. Thank you so much for the peace.

[@kennymonty8206]

I hope you are fit as a fiddle again! Bless you.

[@stretch4872]

@@kennymonty8206 thank you for the well wishes. I ended up having a bad fight with covid but I'm good now.

[@lalou4617]

This movie spans generations. It doesn't get old because it affects everyone the same way. I'm 60 and have been watching this movie every Christmas since I was that little girl Susies age. I could have bet money you'd react the way you did. Good job!

[@Jordashian93]

Edmund Gwenn won the Oscar for best supporting actor for playing Kris Kringle. Becoming the first actor to win an Oscar for playing Santa Clause.

[@logann7942]

Supporting?!?!

[@GrayMoe]

He is the only person to win an Oscar playing Santa and probably the last.

[@theretrosavage]

Natalie wood as a child....if she only knew

[@MessOfThings]

@@vincentsablan732 report, don't reply.

[@SusanSloate]

Natalie Wood was also PERFECT as Susie. She went on to become a stunning adult actress who did a lot of memorable movies and drowned tragically off the coast of Catalina Island in 1981. No one has ever been sure what happened, and she was only 43. What a loss. I watch this movie every Christmas, and NO ONE has ever been a better child actress, in my opinion. So glad you loved it!

[@firemedic5100]

The 1947 is the only version I will watch every time it comes on.

[@8967Logan]

This movie has one of the most heartwarming scenes. When he and the little Dutch girl sing the Christmas song it is just so sweet. I also love it every time someone in film is lying and you call them out, "Liar!" :).

[@pgorodiloff]

Santa Claus speaks the language of all children- Kramer

[@Divamarja_CA]

Mr. Sawyer never fails to infuriate me! Never!!!

[@jenniferward8902]

This is absolutely one of my favorite Christmas movies ever! My all-time favorite is "White Christmas" with Bing Crosby. It's a musical. So glad that you liked this one!

[@redflath]

It is my favorite movie also. Nothing better than Danny Kaye and Bing Crosby.

[@johnvogler5335]

Yes!!!! White Christmas gives me ALL the holiday cheer! The Popcorn Sisters need to watch it together!!!!!

[@light9999]

@@johnvogler5335 And perform the "Sisters" song.

[@jenniferward8902]

@@light9999 that would be awesome! I think that they could really get into that and have a lot of fun with it!

[@Chris-ji4iu]

Love this movie. The Dutch girl was adopted because her parents were killed in WWII - they don't say it, but it makes this scene all the more special.

[@dongilleo9743]

The audience in 1947, just a couple of years after the end of WW2, would have immediately been aware of the little Dutch girl's situation. When they made a modern version of the movie, the Dutch girl is replaced by a deaf girl. It's still a nice scene, making the point that Santa can speak with all children, but the 1947 version will always be my favorite.

[@vcancer]

I work at Macy's 34th street and had the privilege of being in the Thanksgiving parade one year. The prep before and after is crazy, but once your in the parade it's amazing. I had great fun and my family saw me on tv. P.S. Merry Christmas to all.

[@Dej24601]

So happy you loved this! Another warm-hearted, charming, sweet Christmas film is “The Bishop’s Wife”, (1947) starring Cary Grant. (Two kids from “It’s A Wonderful Life” are in the cast.)

[@bubhub64]

I love The Bishop's Wife, I watch it every year at Christmas.

[@rw4487]

Yeah great movie I just watched it free on KZbin movies

[@Jim-Mc]

It doesn't get mentioned enough.

[@charlescarter9600]

one of my favs

[@mescko]

@@charlescarter9600 My Mum's too.

[@peterk7931]

My favorite joke in this movie is that he makes the martinis triple strong. Martinis are pure alcohol, so triple strong just means three martinis in a single glass.

[@jimmiegiboney2473]

23:18 Mark! The older man of these two men is "The Man" as in "Chico and the Man"! 😊 Sarah Michelle Gellar's father-in-law played "Chico"! 😊

[@dongilleo9743]

My favorite Christmas movie ever. This is the one that always starts my Christmas season on the evening of Thanksgiving. Santa Claus comes at the end of the parade, and Christmas officially starts. I've seen this movie so many times that I didn't think I would get emotional. Then your kind words and Christmas wishes at the end brought out the tears. Merry Christmas!🎄🎅

[@SK-lk3iu]

My favorite movie Ever, and I'm not even that huge a fan of Christmas movies. I cry often during this no matter how often I watch it!

[@mescko]

Edmund Gwenn actually *was* Santa Claus in the parade that year. Basically no one knew who he really was - yet.

[@prenticehammond2003]

Maureen O'Hara was 6 years into her career when this film came out in 1947. She has quite a long list of great films. Many with John Wayne. This first time I saw her was as a young kid starring with Jimmy Stewart in the 1965 movie "The Rare Breed". Oops, I lied, it was 1961 Walt Disney film "The Parent Trap".

[@waterbeauty85]

When I was a child with a penchant for watching old movies, I absolutely loved Edmund Gwenn. He projected such an amazing cuddly charm and charisma.

[@TwoRiversFarm707]

Loved him in Sally and St. Anne. He played the wily grandfather.

[@oliverbrownlow5615]

Edmund Gwenn also plays a charming role in *The Student Prince* (1954).

[@Gtc8484]

I’m 72 and I grew up watching this wonderful movie - I couldn’t begin to guess how many times I’ve seen it, all I can say is what a special treat it was to watch you see it for the first time and the joy you got from it -Thanks for this special gift ❤

[@vincentsaia6545]

This is my all-time favorite movie (tied with THE RIGHT STUFF). Edmund Gwenn grew his own beard and gained 30 pounds to play Kris Kringle and won an Academy Award for his performance. Upon winning his Oscar he said, "Now I know there's a Santa Claus!" Thanks for showing it. I experience the magic with each viewing.

[@TheWadetube]

You are the miracle, your appreciation of things lesser known is uplifting. I haven't seen this movie in 40 years or so and it is only because of you that I saw it again. You have my gratitude.

[@anthonyknighten8256]

Agreed.

[@RetroClassic66]

This is one of my all time favorite Christmas movies! I grew up watching this every year on television in the 1970s & 1980s. Today I always find myself getting choked up and crying like this 😭 as the movie ends because it’s just so honestly and disarmingly sweet and pure-hearted and seeing Edmund Gwenn’s face just light up like a Christmas tree as the bagfuls of letters to Santa are unloaded on the judge’s desk is just so beautiful and such an outpouring of love!

[@robertlabaw2037]

The house that little Natalie Wood runs across the front yard and into still exists in Port Washington, NY, a town a few miles away from my home. Every year, I drive past and remember this movie (and so do lots of other families too).

[@rickguyer5236]

Edmund Gwenn's performance as Kringle was so convincing that he won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor-the only actor who has played Santa to do this!

[@e.d.2096]

One of the best Christmas films ever! The messaging of family and believing in what's important to you and yours is timeless. MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ONE AND ALL!

[@ariesrcn]

The Dutch girl is a war orphan and she was adopted by that lady. She was telling Santa how much she loves her new mom.

[@johnnehrich9601]

Yes, to the audience at the time, that "she just came over" meant the rest of her family had been slaughtered during the war, her homeland devastated, she comes to a strange new land to live with strangers, and most people don't speak her language. Her story was the same for thousands of children in the aftermath of the War.

[@oliverbrownlow5615]

I think when Kris asks what she wants for Christmas, she says she has everything because "this kind lady" is adopting her. Then Kris asks if she wants to sing a song, and they sing together.

[@jimmiegiboney2473]

3:39 Mark! Cassie, Merry Christmas! Heh! Dad was 7 in 1947! When he saw this movie, he declared Natalie Wood to be his sweetheart! ❤😊

[@melissadahl7561]

This is one of my favorite Christmas movies. The way they work out that he actually IS Santa is just brilliant.

[@laurogarza4953]

This classic features the child actress, Natalie Wood, who went on to have a spectacular career. Starring in this is the stunning red haired Irish beauty and close friend of both John Wayne and Liz Taylor was Maureen O'Hara. She had already a great career and demonstrated her a singing talent and dancing skills in the original film "The Hunchback of Notre Dame." She continued making movies into the 1980s and was the only woman in American history to own and operate a commercial airline.

[@nonMuggle]

"Post office guy," who had the bright idea to send all the Dear Santa letters to Kris, was Jack Albertson. He went on to win a Tony, an Emmy, and an Oscar. He was most widely known for his roles as The Man in "Chico and the Man" (Emmy, 1974) and as Grandpa Joe in "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" (1971).

[@davidparris7167]

And I thought it was Kramer from Seinfeld's first acting gig.

[@clarkhamlin2667]

I’m going on 60 and I believe in the spirit of Christmas and Santa and always will. I taught this to my children and hope that they will teach it to theirs. My grown up children still believe in the spirit of Santa. I think my job is done.

[@toygiants8748]

Seeing this young ladies reaction might be to some people like watching this movie along with the child they never had and her expressions of surprise, wonder and delight tend to brighten a dark day. She is reaching people more than she may know. Thank you

[@jestertlsodx9897]

To me this was the greatest Christmas movie ever. Maybe one of the best movies of all time. Great writing and acting. at 46, I still go out every Christmas eve and look up at the sky to see if I might see something.

[@TheInfo45]

Absolutely and iconic film for everyone to love and share with their family. Maureen O'Hara Natalie Wood such phenomenal acting and the story is just beautiful and heartwarming

[@philipocallaghan]

It's a pity Natalie Wood was murdered by Mr Heart......

[@ugaladh]

I look back now in my 60s and think about how amazing Maureen O'Hara was altogether, in every thing.

[@jimporter7602]

Do you remember Maureen O Hara from the quiet man

[@ugaladh]

@@jimporter7602 I'm not sure I've even seen that one, but what I read about her since my post makes me want to look that one up.

[@TheInfo45]

@@jimporter7602 John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara are perfect

[@ljbimoore]

Edmund Gwenn absolutely IS Santa Claus. Never seen such perfect casting in my life. This is one of my favourites for sure - and yes, I still get goosebumps when they show the cane by the fireplace! 😍 Fantastic reaction!

[@mikehigbee2320]

We usually start our Christmas movie season with this one. Don't know how many times I've seen it in my 58 years, but it's been a staple since childhood. For me, Natalie Wood (Susan) makes the movie as much as anyone. She's so precocious and adorable. "Oh. Like if at first you don't succeed, try, try again. I thought so." The way she rolls her eyes is so perfect. I'm glad you found this movie at last. No one should have Christmas without it.

[@johncarroll9489]

The old Christmas movies are the best, The Bishops Wife, Christmas in Connecticut, It Happened on Fifth Avenue, White Christmas, We're no Angel's, Holiday Affair, All Mine to Give, The Shop Around the Corner, Remember the Night, Holiday Inn all really great movies!

[@algiehoosier5165]

It was sooooo fun watching this movie with you. It felt like watching it again with a friend. Thank you so much!!! Merry Christmas!!!

[@joelcampbell7100]

It’s definitely a Christmas Classic !! You’re without a doubt the most genuine movie reviewer in this market. You bring all who watch right into your feelings !! God Bless you Cassie !! 🙏🏻✝️❤️

[@sharkdentures3247]

"Can this get any sweeter?" = Pretty much sums up what makes these old movies (like this one & It's a Wonderful Life) so great, even today!

[@bani_niba]

He wasn't the mall Santa Claus as malls didn't exist yet in the 1940's. In case you didn't know, Macys and Gimbels were the biggest department store rivals in NYC, with their flagship stores facing each other in Herald Square. The little girl was played by Natalie Wood, one of the biggest actresses in the 1960's & 1970's.

[@mikerobertson4041]

Great movie! I am a 66-year-old man, and when Kris speaks to the little Dutch girl, it still brings tears to my eyes.

[@Jeremy_theGent]

By all accounts from the cast and crew, everyone loved working with Edmund Gwenn, so much that Natalie Wood was convinced he really was Santa Claus.

[@Jeremy_theGent]

@Telegmmeofficialsypherpk You're a filthy scammer.

[@DylansPen]

This movie was released maybe six months after Its A Wonderful Life, two black and white films that are at the top of the list of films we watch every year. Natalie Wood is the little girl and she is so good in this film. Enjoyed your reaction Cassie.

[@dianafrost936]

Mrs. Shellhammer was so funny. Edmund Gwenn as Santa was wonderful. I'm so glad you watched the original instead of the remakes. The originals are always best.

[@mescko]

My Mum loved Mrs. Shellhammer too. If I had a nickel for every time she said, "Why we'd *love* to have Santie Claus come and stay with us!" Wish I could hear her say it one more time.

[@mariocisneros911]

We +50 year olds to 70 grew up watching this in Chicago every Christmas season . This , Its a Wonderful Life , and A Christmas Carol got us in the holiday spirit.

[@v_tnmnt3131]

23:14 - In case you missed it, the guy talking about the dead letter office is a young Grandpa Joe from Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971). His voice is the same 30 years later.

[@alfredroberthogan5426]

Jack Albertson in an uncredited role.

[@peterradsliff527]

You talked about Macy’s being in a “mall.” In actuality, Macy’s on 34th Street in Herald Square stands on its own taking up an entire city block. It’s massive and wonderful. I visited there in 2009 and all the window displays around the block were scenes from this movie. Animatronic figures we’re moving in each scene and they were sculpted to look just like the actors in this movie. On every window was a quote from the script that best described the scene inside…with “Believe” written in gold letters next to it. I know it’s just advertising, but I have never seen a more wonderful campaign, ever!

[@oliverbrownlow5615]

Macy's has ten floors, with more than a million square feet of shopping space. It's a bit like a mall in itself.

[@MessOfThings]

Yesterday I watched It's a Wonderful Life in the theater for the 75th anniversary, it was much more emotional to see it in the theater then any of the times I've seen it on a small screen

[@Sorarse]

This is one of those rare movies where the remake (in colour) is just as heartwarming.

[@davidyoung745]

This is the first Christmas in 18 years that I haven’t been able to dress up as Santa for the local kindergarten and the day care. Seeing this old classic from my childhood almost makes up for it. Merry Christmas everyone.

[@samanthanickson6478]

merry christmas david! 🎄

[@tiay3162]

I was so happy when I saw the thumbnail! My favorite Christmas movie of all time-- watch it every Thanksgiving to kick off the season. I'm so glad you enjoyed it!

[@_WillCAD_]

Wow. That was great. Thank you Cassie. I was shocked - SHOCKED - to see this one come up in your queue. "What!? She's never seen Miracle on 34th Street!? She's going to LOVE it!" It's hard to put into words how much I love this movie. It's far and away my favorite Christmas movie of all time, and Edmund Gwenn is, in my opinion, the best movie Santa of all time. I watch it multiple times each Christmas season, and what the heck, I break it out in the middle of July sometimes, too. My favorite scene, without a doubt, is the scene with the Dutch girl. When Kris speaks Dutch to her, and sings Sinterklaas Kapoentje with her, I choke up and tear up, no matter how many times I've seen it. Heck, I teared up during that scene in this video! Richard Attenborough (who's also a world-class movie Santa) has a similar scene in the 1994 remake where he signs with a deaf girl. There are lots of stories about the filming of this picture, about how much Maureen O'Hara and Natalie Wood grew to love Edmund and how much fun the entire production was. My favorite factoid about it is that the parade scenes with Kris on the float were REAL. Edmund Gwenn got into costume and played Santa on the float in the actual 1946 Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade. FYI to all the fans: there is a colorized version of this wonderful film available on DVD. I know many purists don't like colorized versions of black and white films, but the colorized version of this one is excellent quality and brings a greater depth and dimension to the film than the original. I only watch the colorized version now. It's available at Amazon. Only ten dollars, an exceptional bargain! www.amazon.com/Miracle-Street-Black-White-Colourised/dp/B000J20CUW/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=miracle+on+34th+street+colorized+1947&qid=1671587721&sprefix=miracle+on+34th+street+color%2Caps%2C88&sr=8-3

[@catherinelw9365]

Colorization of a B&W film destroys the "chiaroscuro" of the original. Light and shadow are used artfully in B&W films and should remain as such since they are artistic achievements.

[@_WillCAD_]

@@catherinelw9365 If the colorization is done poorly, I agree. However, when it's done well, it adds something to the original film. I'm sure there are many directors of the b/w era who would have jumped at the chance to make a color film, had the tech been available and/or affordable to them. Once color film stock was invented, shooting in black and white wasn't always an artistic choice, it was often a budgetary choice.

[@jimmiegiboney2473]

19:08 Mark! Cassie, I guess that you never saw "I Love Lucy" since you didn't exclaim, "That's 'Fred Mertze' from 'I Love Lucy'!" 😉

[@tremorsfan]

I'm glad you watched the original instead of the remake.

[@davidwatchesyoutube]

Fun fact, the guy at the post office is Jack Albertson, the same actor that plays Grandpa Joe in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.

[@mescko]

And played "The Man" in the ill-fated sitcom "Chico and the Man" Starring the late Freddy Prinze.

[@CaesiusX]

This is my favorite version. But I did want to mention that the 1994 version has _Richard Attenborough_ as _Kris Kringle._ He played _John Hammond_ the creator of *Jurassic Park,* and _Bartlett/Big X_ in *The Great Escape.* It's a solid remake. But as I said, this one's my favorite. ☃️ MERRY CHRISTMAS! 🎄

[@adelinesantodonato7955]

The parade is the Macy's of 1947 is the one in the movie. It is the actual parade of that year.

[@RR-ho5ek]

I can't think of anyone who would love, and appreciate this movie more than you. Watching this with you kindled my holiday spirit, and just made me happy. This movie is one of, if not my favorite Christmas movie, the others being, a Christmas story, Prancer, and a Christmas Carol. It totally holds up, even in the modern day, it is hip, and entertaining. I don't even care if it is in Black and White. I'm with you, I love to believe in the magic of Christmas, santa Claus is real, merry Christmas.

[@gregleblanc9357]

Best Christmas movie Ever (Actually a tie with my other favorite Christmas movie.) It's a Wonderful Life. They are both an annual tradition. Seen them both a million times, but I could never get tired of watching either of them. Merry Christmas!!

[@stevencraven4897]

Natalie Wood's sense of wonder in this film was not feigned. She revealed later (in her teens) that, during the filming of "Miracle on 34th Street" that they had somehow convinced the really, truly Santa Claus to star in this movie. And Edmund Gwenn's performance shines as a model for Santa even today. Certainly deserving of the Oscar win.

[@kschneyer]

I *knew* you would love this film. It’s perfect for you. When I was a child in the late 60s, this film always played on television the day after Thanksgiving. It was the beginning of the Christmas season. :)

[@mikevandenboom5958]

The old songs and B&W Christmas movies are before my time , but they are All the best versions by far! A Christmas Carol 1951 with Alastair Sim is awsome and is the one to watch

[@johnnehrich9601]

Yes, I think that is my favorite version too.

[@MARKEJ67]

Another classic!

[@MrAitraining]

Yes! The 1951 one has been the version my family has watched for 50 yrs. Alastair Sim the best

[@janetnwonderland]

I feel the same as you. I never felt my parents lied to me. Christmas was a magical time for me. And even when I began to realize that my mom and dad were Santa, it was just as wonderful. Instead of fessing up to my knowledge, I played along, not just for my little sisters, but for my mom and dad. I realized that they got just as much joy out of playing Santa as I got in knowing Santa. And when my parents realized that I knew who Santa was, they included me. I remember quite a few times my dad would mirthfully say something about Santa to my little sisters and would wink at me. It would cause me to break into a knowing smile and would make me feel so special. I still delight and tear up with those memories. And so it went with my own children, and then with their own. I love seeing my teenage grandkids playing along for their little siblings They really play it up. It's magical and beautiful. It is a wonder to see all the love between the siblings and all of the cousins. Christmas Eve is the best part of my year as we all gather in my home for presents, games, food, and talk of Santa from the older kids for the benefit of the younger ones. Santa and the magic surrounding is a memory that I will take with me to the end of my days. Santa is my family. Yes Virginia, there is a Santa Claus.

[@uclagymnastx-ing]

So glad you watched and reacted to this! It amazes me how many people have yet to discover old classics like this and It's a Wonderful Life. For me, they are yearly must-sees.

[@captainkangaroo4301]

Maureen O’Hara was always great from when she first appeared as a 19 year old in The Hunchback Of Notre Dame in 1939 until nearly five decades later when she played John Candy’s mother. And Natalie Wood was always sweet from as a little kid here until the day she drowned under suspicious circumstances decades later.

[@williamblakehall5566]

Thelma Ritter is an amazing actress, the skeptical mother who is amazed by Kris. Great line: "I speak French but that doesn't make me Joan of Arc!" (Loving Cassie's hat, by the by.) True story: this actor turned up as a scientist in the movie "Them," the one about giant ants, and a young Steven Spielberg exclaimed "The scientist is Santa Claus!" Another great line: "You've heard of the French nation -- well, there's the imagination." Natalie Wood was always a fine actress, amazing to see her here as a child. Y'know, the really great part of this is that Santa finally got to see all his mail! Anyway, I hope you see why THIS is my Xmas movie -- Wonderful Life is fine, but this does it for me. MERRY CHRISTMAS.

[@MARKEJ67]

Them is another 50's Classic Sci Fi film Also watch the original The Day The Earth Stood Still!

[@Divamarja_CA]

This was Thelma Ritter’s film debut, at the age of 45! We also saw her on PIB as Stella the insurance nurse, in Hitchcock’s classic “Rear Window.”

[@robertvantine2810]

Another movie I have seen at least a hundred times. My favorite part is when the Judge says, "Overruled!" This movie has been somewhat bittersweet since 2005. I lost my Father the Friday before Father's Day and the actor playing Alfred looked so much like my Dad did when he was young.

[@kbrewski1]

Love the way you say "Oh my gwooshhh" Cassie!

[@jocelynhaeberle1401]

I try to watch this one right after the Macy's parade. Classic! And we quote it often, especially the judge. "Overruled!" 😂

[@mescko]

That became a catch phrase in my family. I always wondered if other families were nutty enough to use cultural/cinematic/literary allusions in their convos.

[@johnmiller7682]

This movie has been remade many times. This is still the best version.

[@jimmiegiboney2473]

8:59 Mark! Whoa! This is my first time to be able to pause it and read it and not see "Donner"! 😂

[@ronrago2696]

Talk about the perfect Christmas Story, I had forgotten how great this was! Cassie, you bring a tear to my eye seeing you so happy watching these old movie classics, Merry Christmas!!!

[@7rippster7]

That house is an actual house - and it still looks pretty much the same (some bigger bushes etc) The address is in the trivia on imdb. Love this movie (much better than the remake)

[@hallieharker4384]

Fun facts: The parade footage shown in the film is from the actual 1946 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and Edmund Gwenn (who plays Kris Kringle) really was the Santa Claus in the Macy's Parade that year.

[@elizabethmadron1336]

My dad's parents had a stuffed Santa that was purchased in NYC when this film was released.My grandparents visited NYC and saw the movie but lived in fL. It looked like this actor just a miniature version. My grandmother told me that was the "real " Santa. He was 14 inches tall and sat at the foot of Christmas tree every year. Everytime I see this movie I think of that little Santa doll.

[@MATT-2033]

Alastair Sim 1951 A Christmas Carol has no competition.

[@jamesscanlan6240]

I agree; the Muppets version is great but Alistair Sim is perfect, as is the movie.

[@oliverbrownlow5615]

It may be your favorite, but it has a great deal of competition, and more competing versions are made every year. My favorite is the Leslie Bricusse musical *Scrooge* (1970), starring Albert Finney.

[@josephciolino5493]

I agree, but isn't this a bit irrelevant here?

[@MATT-2033]

@@josephciolino5493 it's never irrelevant to mention a classic.

[@roboman34]

for me ...being adobted at 3 weeks old , and haveing a mum & dad , priceless ,,,, And at 25 years old Finding my Birth mother , and other , blood relatives , and still my adopted relatives ....the gift is so great. // my mum died on october 2022 , but great memories , . Still know my Birth mother , and , with my dad . LIFE is great Keep it Love it xoxox

[@michellebarry1555]

I’m so glad that you watched the original. The remake (1994) is cute but nothing compared to this one. I love that you love old movies. Merry Christmas ♥️🎅🏼

[@drhkleinert8241]

I like that the remake is that near to the original but includes a few complete new plot issues (the villains from the other stores, the "bad santa" and the complete different ending, and of course Attenborough as the perfect Kringle. But the remake hasnt this "feels".

[@josephciolino5493]

John Payne started out as a band singer then because of his looked was cast in films. He was extremely popular in the forties and some of the fifties, and wass quite a good actor and quite under-rated. His last appearance was in an episode of "Columbo" with Janet Leigh.

[@joycegibbs5267]

Natalie Wood is a revelation in this. She should have won some sort of award. Her best performance IMO, god rest her soul. Such a wonderful film.

[@sterling557]

Natalie is awesome in THE GREAT RACE. So pretty and funny! ❤

[@vetteboy1982]

You had the perfect reaction to this childhood favorite of mine. I was born on Dec. 25th, 1960 and this was exactly how life was in America was back in the day. Wonderful and magical , and you should do a live watch along every Christmas Eve …it would be fun. Keep up the great work , although, I did wish your sister was here for that one . ❤

[@dmichael1172]

Thanks again for showing me films that I would have never paid attention to before. This was a fun watch and continue to enjoy watching these films with you. Marry Christmas and Happy New Year Cassie and your Family.

[@victorsixtythree]

6:23 - Jimmy Stewart's nurse from 'Rear Window'! 23:17 - and as the postal worker...Jack Albertson (Grandpa Joe in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory)!

[@tomj819]

Hands down my favorite Christmas movie. It's just wall-to-wall wholesome storytelling! 😍

[@SwiftFoxProductions]

"Isn't Gimbels where Elf takes place?" Yes, it is! And its association with this Christmas movie is why they used it as the setting for "Elf"! 😁Actually, at the time this movie was made, Gimbels was a real chain of stores, just like Macys. The filmmakers, actually, had to get special permission from both Gimbels and Macys to use their names in the movie. Gimbels had been around for over a hundred years even by the time this movie was made but, they went out of business in the 1980s.

[@protonneutron9046]

When my boys were young and Christmas was nigh I'd start pretending I was seeing elves outside the windows when it was close to bedtime. I told them that they were making the list of good kids for Santa and they were checking if they were going to bed on time. It worked and they loved it. They told me so when they grew up. 🎄🎄🎄🎄🎑

[@patticrichton1135]

This is one of my favorite Christmas movies of all time. It was released the year I was born. I have watched it every Christmas on TV since I was a very little girl. I am 75 now, and I STILL love it and get emotional while watching it. My mother was just the opposite of "Susan's" mother. Mom told me stories, read fairy tales to me until I could read them myself, and play "make believe" with me. Thanks to her I had a very vivid imagination as a child. It helped since I was an "only child" until I was nearly 9 years old when my sister was born. I love your Christmas wishes at the end, since I will be by myself, but I usually watch my favorite movies, "A CHRISTMAS STORY" (which was also partly filmed in my home city of Cleveland, and inside Higbee's Dept. Store where my Dad worked and where I worked part time as a teenager and college student. My Dad was asked if he wanted to be an "extra" but he didn't want to lose any sales, he worked in the TV/Stereos Dept. and they were on part commission. Cleveland is also the home of the "CHRISTMAS STORE" HOUSE where "Ralphie" and his family lived. The exterior of the house in the movie is a real house in Cleveland. People can tour it now, and there's a souvenir shop across the street. If you have never seen "A CHRISTMAS STORY" you SHOULD watch it, you will LOVE it! It's always nice to see young Natalie Wood ("Susan") In case you don't know, as an adult she played "MARIA" in the 1962 movie of the musical "WEST SIDE STORY." I also like watching various versions of "A CHRISTMAS CAROLE" Merry Christmas to you!!

[@zcoker30]

I've always watched the 90s version. This is the first time I've seen this one. Thank you for spreading the most wonderful time of the year. Merry Christmas to you and your family!

[@vapoet]

It had a much better "miracle" than the 1990s version. And the use of actual Macys and actual Gimbels was pretty wonderful.

[@jonjohns65]

@@jasonsmith6795 Sorry Jason, I am removing your comments that have spoilers for the 1994 version.

[@jkbrown5496]

My aunt was the nurse for a pediatrician. In the '70s she asked him advice about having her son see a psychologist. He advised if she did to get one right out of school for after a few years they are crazier than their patients. I always keep that in mind.

[@PsychedelicChameleon]

I'm so glad that you've finally watched "Miracle on 34th Street", this is the perfect movie for you!

[@Rspenesmit]

Awesome Movie, it's on our watch list every single year, I'm 63 & watched my entire life & have 4 grown kids now, we all watched it as a Family ever single year & still do, your review was as enjoyable as the Movie, thank yoU! We plan to add your review of it to our annual Christmas watch list also.

[@kevincameron8437]

I love this movie and I wish they would show it after the Macys Parade instead of the dog show. It’s the perfect movie to kick off the Christmas season!

[@HuntingViolets]

We used to watch the parades on TV when I was a kid. NBC just had Macy's, but they also had Broadway musical stars doing songs from their shows. CBS had different parades from various places (including Macy's), which was cool too.

[@lewstone5430]

One of my favorite Christmas movies. Thanks Cassie! Happy holidays to everyone!