Miracle on 34th Street - A Movie Review

How are you sure that he is the real Santa Claus?

Miracle on 34th Street is a 1947 film. A man named Kris Kringle claims that he is the real Santa Claus. After an incident, he is on trial arguing his identity. The people he meets also decipher the truth and challenge skepticism regarding the holiday season.

Miracle on 34th Street is a Christmas classic. I have watched this film almost every Christmas since I was a kid. No matter how old we get never give up imagination. This film exhibits the testament of standing up for your rights and believing in yourself.

Edmund Gwenn’s warm portrayal of Kris Kringle is the best part of the film. He becomes the part, manifesting an authentic and kind personality. You feel like you know him. Kris stands up for everyone when the situation is unfair. Gwenn’s portrayal of Kris Kringle isn’t merely a character but an embodiment of the Christmas spirit, radiating joy to kids and adults.

Starring as Susan Walker, the late Natalie Wood is excellent as a child with an adult mind. As a skeptic child, Wood captures the essence of childhood curiosity. Her journey through the film is poignant. I adore the scene where Kris teaches her how to act like a monkey. Wood briefly believed her co-star to be the real Santa!

The film has wonderful performances by Maureen O’Hara and John Payne. Doris is also a level-headed and career-driven woman who avoids imagination and the holiday spirit. O’Hara doesn’t get enough credit for her role. For the film’s time, Doris leads her own life without looking up to anyone.

O’Hara and Wood were an excellent mother-daughter duo. O’Hara mentioned in interviews that this was her favorite mom role in her career.

Miracle on 34th Street was a first for two famous character actors. This film marked the film debut of character actress, Thelma Ritter. It does not matter how small your part is. Jack Albertson also has a short role as a mail room worker. Kris communicating with the Dutch girl is one of the signature scenes of the film.

As noted by the actors, the film was shot during a bitterly cold month in November. Ironically, the film was released to theaters in the summer months.

The central moral of Miracle on 34th Street revolves around the power of faith. George Seaton encourages viewers to embrace their inner child and hold onto their beliefs. The film serves as a gentle reminder that there is value in holding onto our beliefs, even when faced with doubt and disbelief.

Upon multiple viewings of Miracle on 34th Street, I've found myself questioning the storyline and Kris Kringle's intentions. While he may be Santa Claus, the part where Kris lashes out at a man and hits him raised my awareness. That was out of character of Kris’s humble spirit. Is he who he claims to be?

The last half of the film slows down in the trial scenes. The trial scenes are integral to the plot, but the legal proceedings and courtroom drama don't resonate with my interests. It shifts focus away from a heartwarming story about a man spreading Christmas cheer.

Miracle on 34th Street is a classic to check out during the holiday season. Remind yourselves of what Christmas is about. We all get over-excited in gift-giving for the holiday season. The film urges us to reevaluate our priorities during Christmas. It advocates for a return to the true meaning of the season—a time for love, generosity, and the joy of human connection.