This week, we’re focusing on Rankin/Bass origin stories for Santa Claus. Last time, we discussed one of my favorite Christmas specials, Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town (1970). Today, however, we are reviewing the more obscure The Life & Adventures of Santa Claus (1985), which is based off the story of the same name by L. Frank Baum, the very same author of The Wizard of Oz!
Continue reading The Life & Adventures of Santa Claus (1985) Review Now that I’ve reviewed every Christmas special from our marathon back in March, I decided to check out a few more Rankin/Bass specials that people seem to rate quite highly. Our theme this week is “Santa Claus origin stories”, with this Friday’s review covering The Life & Adventures of Santa Claus (1985). But first, I’d like to discuss a personal favorite of mine, the more well-known Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town from 1970!
Continue reading Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town (1970) Review Our focus this week is Rankin/Bass specials starring Frosty the Snowman. Last time, we discussed Frosty’s Winter Wonderland (1976). Considering that Frosty is probably the second most well-known character to star in Rankin/Bass’ work, after Rudolph, of course, it makes sense that they would eventually get a crossover. And this crossover is the topic of today’s post, Rudolph and Frosty’s Christmas in July (1979).
Continue reading Rudolph and Frosty’s Christmas in July (1979) ReviewHappy Christmas, everyone! Finally the time of year to give presents (and better yet, get presents), spend time with family, and eat food again, as if we didn’t do that a month ago. It’s a happy time of year, but there are some parts of it I just don’t understand.
Why on Earth do we tell children that a large man breaks into our house every Christmas Eve night? Why? That sounds truly terrifying. This enormous man dressed in red flies through the sky thanks to some flying deer, and do you ever wonder why the deer can fly? Are they supernatural deer? Or is this thanks to some horrible black magic? Is Santa a dark mage? And then after that, he goes down your chimney. There’s no way you can keep this guy out. The doors are locked, but never fear, he’ll still get in. And if you don’t have a chimney, your parents tell you that he’ll find another way. There’s no keeping Santa out. If he wants you, he’ll get you.
And how come he knows if you’re nice or naughty? Does he watch you? Tap your phone lines? Why is it wrong for the government to do it, but Santa can get away with it? Why is it wrong for that creepy guy watching you from across the parking lot to stalk you, but Santa can watch you all year, judge you, and then put your name on a list? Why does he even know your name? And your address? What company is selling our private information to Santa?
And what about the sweatshop that is the North Pole? Do those elves even get paid? Or does he just work them and work them all year long making presents that he gets all the credit for? Someone needs to go up there and liberate the elves. Why don’t we see elves anywhere else? Has he imprisoned an entire race?
Has anyone thought of this? Am I the only one that is disgusted with this shady character that is Santa? Probably. Everyone loves him because he leaves behind delightful gifts. Apparently that’s enough. I guess I must fight back myself.
The Duck’s Watching You, Santa
