Watch The Christmas Toy
- TV-G
- 1986
- 50 min
-
7.8 (1,448)
The Christmas Toy is a heartwarming Christmas classic produced by Jim Henson Productions that was first released in 1986. The movie has since become a beloved holiday favorite and a timeless classic, enjoyed by generations since its release. The story of The Christmas Toy is set in a typical suburban home, during the holiday season. The central character of the movie is Rugby, a lovable and floppy stuffed tiger that is the favorite toy of a young girl named Jamie. Rugby is determined to be Jamie's gift to Santa Claus, as Jamie is convinced that her toy is very special and he needs to be the first gift given to Santa.
Rugby's dream challenges the other toys in the house, many of whom have been around for several Christmases and have come to accept their place as simply household objects. However, Rugby's determination and bravery inspire many of the other toys, led by his friend Mew, to take action and prevent Rugby from being taken away by Santa Claus.
The main toy characters include Meteora, a beautiful star whose main purpose is to guide Santa's sleigh; Apple, a wise and compassionate doll; and Balthazar, a pompous teddy bear who feels Rugby is beneath him in terms of rank and has designs on replacing Meteora as Santa's right hand.
The film is wonderfully crafted, and its characters are brought to life by the talented performers behind them. Dave Goelz, Steve Whitmire, and Kathryn Mullen provide voice work for some of the principal characters in the movie, and their performances are simply outstanding. The various toys are brought to life in a charming and whimsical way, and each has a unique personality that is both distinct and memorable. The animation is also quite impressive, especially for its time, and brings to life the magic of the holiday season in a way that is both accessible and relatable to audiences of all ages.
One of the things that sets this film apart from other Christmas films of its time is its use of a toy's perspective. By following the story of Rugby and the other toys, we are given a unique look at the holiday season through the eyes of those who are often relegated to the sidelines and forgotten about when the presents have been unwrapped. This approach is both charming and relatable, as we all remember the special bond we shared with our own favorite toys as children.
While the film is certainly marketed towards children, there is a depth of emotion and meaning beneath its surface that is sure to resonate with adults. The characters are all dealing with issues that are relevant to people of all ages - from Rugby's struggles to be seen as more than just a toy, to Meteora's doubts about her purpose in life, to Balthazar's desire for recognition and respect. Additionally, the themes of family, friendship, and the true meaning of Christmas are all woven into the story in a meaningful way, making it a wonderful choice for family viewing during the holiday season.
Overall, The Christmas Toy is a timeless classic that is sure to appeal to audiences of all ages. Its heartwarming story, charming characters, and unique perspective on the holiday season make it a must-watch during the Christmas season. Whether you're looking for a film to entertain the kids or simply want to revisit a beloved classic from your childhood, this movie is bound to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.
The Christmas Toy is a 1986 kids & family movie with a runtime of 50 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.8.