Did you know there were Christmas movies long before the Hallmark Channel? Discover some of the best from days gone by as film historian Lou Sabini joins Bill Shafer for a look at Christmas movies past. They share titles that will surprise you, warm your heart and pique your interest. You just may discover some films you’ll want to include in your holiday viewing. Plus, what was the first Christmas movie ever made? Lou and Bill take a look a some scenes from it, and others from the dawn of film.
When you’re done watching, check out some of these classics for yourself!
BABES IN TOYLAND, 1934
Laurel & Hardy star as Ollie Dee and Stanley Dum. It’s a classic fantasy film that will appeal to both children and adults. It’s one of those that never gets old. Five stars from Rotten Tomatoes. Streaming free on Pluto and Tubi, available on Amazon Prime, $1.99.
REMEMBER THE NIGHT, 1940
The wonderful Barbara Stanwyk plays a shoplifter and Fred MacMurray is a sympathetic attorney who bails her out and offers to drive her home to Indiana. What happens along the way reveals true character, humanity and the strength of the Christmas spirit! Five stars on Rotten Tomatoes. Streaming free on Peacock or by subscription on Hulu.
THE SHOP AROUND THE CORNER, 1940
Jimmy Stewart and Margaret Sullavan work together at a department store. They bicker, fight and get on each other’s nerves. They each have a pen pal they fall in love with never suspecting that he is hers and she is his. Five stars on Rotten Tomatoes. Amazon Prime and YouTube, $2.99, HBO Max by subscription.
THE HOLLY AND THE IVY, 1952
Ralph Richardson is a minister whose work seems more important than his family. After being separated by World War II all is revealed when they reunite for the Christmas holidays.
SANTA CLAUS 1898
THE CHRISTMAS DREAM 1900
SCROOGE 1901
These films are available for viewing at least in part on YouTube.