The 1983 film “A Christmas Story” is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, and it remains one of the most popular and beloved movies of the holiday season. The film, based on the semi-autobiographical stories of humorist Jean Shepherd, follows the adventures and misadventures of Ralphie Parker, a 9-year-old boy who desperately wants a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. Along the way, he encounters a series of hilarious and memorable obstacles, such as a frozen flagpole, a pink bunny suit, and a leg lamp.
The Making of “A Christmas Story”
The film was directed by Bob Clark, who had previously made horror and comedy films such as “Black Christmas” and “Porky’s.”. Clark was inspired to make “A Christmas Story” after hearing Shepherd’s radio show, where he narrated his childhood anecdotes. Clark contacted Shepherd, and they collaborated on the screenplay, along with Shepherd’s wife, Leigh Brown.
The film was shot in two locations: Cleveland, Ohio, and Toronto, Canada. The exterior scenes, such as the Parker house, the school, and the downtown square, were filmed in Cleveland, while the interior scenes were filmed in Toronto. The production had to create artificial snow for the film, as there was no natural snowfall during the shooting. The film also featured a cast of mostly unknown actors, except for Darren McGavin, who played Ralphie’s father, the Old Man.
The Reception and Legacy of “A Christmas Story”
The film was released on November 18, 1983, and received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised its nostalgic and humorous tone, while others criticized its episodic and disjointed structure. The film was also a modest box-office success, earning $20 million on a $4 million budget.
However, the film gained a cult following over the years, thanks to its repeated airings on television, especially during the holiday season. Since 1997, the cable network TBS has been broadcasting a 24-hour marathon of the film, starting on Christmas Eve and ending on Christmas Day. The film has also spawned a number of merchandise items, such as leg lamps, board games, and action figures.
The film has also been recognized as one of the best and most influential Christmas movies of all time. It was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress in 2012 for being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.”. It was also ranked as the third greatest Christmas movie by the American Film Institute in 2003, behind “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “Miracle on 34th Street.”.
The Impact of “A Christmas Story” on Pop Culture and Society
The film has also had a lasting impact on pop culture and society, as it has been inspired and referenced by many other works of art and entertainment. For example, the film has been adapted into a Broadway musical, a live TV special, and a sequel. The film has also been parodied and homaged by shows such as “The Simpsons,” “Family Guy,” and “South Park.”.
The film has also influenced the way people celebrate and enjoy Christmas, as it has created some of the most iconic and recognizable symbols and traditions of the holiday. For instance, many fans of the film have bought or made their own leg lamps, which have become a symbol of kitsch and humor. Some fans have also visited or stayed at the original Parker house in Cleveland, which has been restored and turned into a museum and a bed and breakfast. Moreover, some fans have also tried to recreate some of the scenes from the film, such as sticking their tongues to frozen poles or dressing up in pink bunny suits.
The film has also captured the essence and spirit of Christmas, as it has portrayed the joys and challenges of childhood, family, and friendship. The film has also shown the importance of imagination, humor, and hope, as Ralphie never gives up on his dream of getting his BB gun, despite the odds and obstacles. The film has also reminded the viewers of the true meaning of Christmas, which is not about the gifts or the decorations but about the love and the memories that we share with our loved ones.
