By Neena Strichart
With all the shopping madness surrounding Christmas, it’s difficult to stay in the holiday spirit. Those gifts you’ve already bought are now on sale–and the television ads remind you at every commercial break. You feel taunted and imagine they are mocking your decision to shop early.
Traffic and parking is unbearable. Although tunes on your car radio warble messages of peace on Earth, the fellow who just stole your parking spot while giving you the one-finger salute suggests otherwise.
Stress, rush, and hurry. How can we slow down and remember the reason for the season?
I find watching old Christmas movies a pleasant reprieve. I think the first one I ever watched was White Christmas starring Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. My parents took me to see it at the Circle Drive-In in Long Beach. I was mesmerized by the sweet storyline and elegant costuming and just loved the songs. My favorite number is still “Sisters” sung by Rosemary Clooney (George’s aunt) and Vera-Ellen.
Through the years, I came to connect Christmas with movies–old movies on television. The ones I cherish the most are The Bishop’s Wife, any version of A Christmas Carol (or Scrooge), It’s a Wonderful Life, and Miracle on 34th Street (original version). My generation also enjoyed many animated holiday specials as children. I still love watching Mister Magoo’s Christmas Carol [makes me cry] (1962), Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964), A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965) and, of course, How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966).
My husband Steve’s favorites are Scrooged with Bill Murray and a Christmas Story (the one about the little boy who wants the bb gun). My friend Deborah prefers Meet Me in St.Louis and insists her family watch it on Christmas day. She says, “It’s a tradition!”
A more recent favorite is Nightmare Before Christmas. What a fabulous film. Disneyland now uses the animated characters and theme for their annual holiday refurbishment of the Haunted Mansion. I love it! What a neat twist from the traditional.
Those who can afford to do so buy their favorite holiday movies on DVD while others still watch their old VHS tapes. Renting movies in person or by mail is also an option. For our readers who would like to see some of the vintage or newer holiday films at little or no cost I suggest visiting your local library. I understand the Signal Hill Library and many Long Beach branches carry some wonderful titles.
So snuggle in during this sudden burst of winter weather and watch some flicks that are sure to bring a smile to your face–and in some cases–a tear to your eye.
Merry Christmas to you all. Have a blessed holiday season–from our family to yours.
