Review of A Christmas Story (1983) by Cameron J — 22 Dec 2010

This is one of those movies that I don't know why I haven't reviewed until now. A Christmas Story is a funny, heart warming movie with clever humor and a good, solid plot.

A Christmas Story is told by a grown up version of Ralphie, our main character. The movie is set in the 1940's, and Ralphie is pining for a Red Ryder BB gun, and most of the movie is him and his various attempts to receive that gun, despite every adult authority stating "You'll shoot your eye out.".

This is extremely well done. I especially like the fantasy moments, that bring back memories since I can relate to the majority of the fantasies. In fact, I think most kids had at least one of those imaginings at some point in their lives, and this doesn't forget a thing. Plus, it has some really clever humor that doesn't always rely on slapstick or visual humor, a pitfall that most family movies fall into. Also, it has this natural heart warming feeling that always gets me excited for Christmas, no matter how horrible the season has been (for me, especially this one.).

The reason I rate A Christmas Story only an 80% is how parts have aged well, and some haven't. I know the movie is supposed to be set in the 1940's, but the sexist attitude of the mom and dad can be a little off-putting. Also, it's not really a family Christmas movie unless the kids are a bit older (like age 12 and up) because of the usage of language in the film. Sure, kids will slip up on occasion, but for younger kids it's not a film they should see until they're older. Other than that, A Christmas Story is the Christmas film done right. (Real rating: 84%).