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Dec 31, 2017Janice21383 rated this title 3 out of 5 stars
1947's Miracle On 34th Street was made at an interesting time: immediately after WW II, when people desired warmth and reassurance, and between the highs of 1930s and early 1940s comedy, and the lows of 1950s smarm. It has a lot going for it: an Oscar-winning performance by Edmund Gwen, Natalie Wood, the most adorable skeptic ever, gorgeous black and white photography, and some sharp dialogue, especially about why you shouldn't teach children to believe what isn't true. A message which is quickly set aside, because: Santa! And this film has other messages, like: a woman should not be able to rear her child as she sees fit if she's a rational old meany head; it's okay to leave your child with multiple strange men, especially one who is mentally ill and attacks people with sticks; and psychologists are evil. And there is far more touching and kissing of other people's children than 2017 would stand for. Honestly, this is a sweet movie full of good intentions, and your family will probably enjoy it, but do discuss it afterwards.