This has become a yearly tradition for me to view this gem after discovering it about three years ago. Griffith is the tough but fair father, while Brett Palmer delivers as the introspective young son. There are hints that this is set in the Depression, which gives it a somewhat bleak feel. However, the characters are thankful and resourceful. Tav has faith that things will turn around and that special things can happen anywhere, "even in a barn," he adds after reading from Luke 2 on Christmas Eve with his family. The film captures the coldness of the season and that bite in the air at 5 AM. It also puts you in the mood for ham and eggs, with a glass of fresh, whole milk. A must watch every Christmas season.
2 Reviews
The message may be good BUT......
thedaemonspawn11 October 2008
We were tortured with being forced to watch this film each and every December in elementary school, grades 1 thru 6. The movie does have a strong, valuable message that is important for children to learn, but overall the movie comes across as very depressing. All this movie did for me was make me want to go home to my family where I felt safe. I will never forget this film because of how sad and depressing it was, and how it scared the crap out of me and my classmates.
I would not force viewing this upon any child, because it comes across in such a dark and depressing manner that no child will learn the lessons that are taught in it. If you want to scare your children to death each holiday season, then this is the film for you.
I would not force viewing this upon any child, because it comes across in such a dark and depressing manner that no child will learn the lessons that are taught in it. If you want to scare your children to death each holiday season, then this is the film for you.
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