A Christmas Story (1983)

Director: Bob Clark
Starring: Peter Billingsley, Melinda Dillon, Darren McGavin

Synopsis:
A boy prone to daydreaming eagerly awaits Christmas in hopes of getting the coveted Red Ryder BB gun.

Impressions:
There's a reason they have 24-hour marathons of this movie every year. On the one hand, it can be a somewhat cynical take on Christmas, but it manages to still be poignant and heartwarming at the same time. It's filled with memorable scenes from start to finish and a lot of good humor. Peter Billingsley is solid as Ralphie (with credit to Jean Shepherd [the original author] providing the narration for Ralphie as an adult) and Darren McGavin and Melinda Dillon leave a strong impression as Mr. and Mrs. Parker. I have to wonder what it'd be like for someone seeing the film for the first time. I'll readily admit a strong nostalgia filter, but it really is a deservedly beloved classic and it enjoys a special place in my heart. I heartily recommend it.

Rating:
Treasure It