Watch The Miracle on 34th Street

The Miracle on 34th Street is a heartwarming Christmas movie from 1955, based on a story by Valentine Davies. It tells the story of Kris Kringle (Macdonald Carey), a kind and jolly old man who claims to be Santa Claus. Kris is hired by Doris Walker (Teresa Wright), the events director of Macy's department store in New York City, to be the store's Santa Claus for the holiday season. Doris is a pragmatic and cynical single mother who doesn't believe in fairy tales or the spirit of Christmas, but her young daughter Susan (Sandy Descher) is enchanted by Kris and his contagious holiday spirit.

As Kris becomes a fixture at the store, he captures the hearts of the customers and employees alike with his kindness, generosity, and childlike wonder. However, things take a turn when Kris is accused of insanity and institutionalized after he insists he really is Santa Claus. The case goes to court, and Kris is defended by kindly lawyer Fred Gailey (Thomas Mitchell), who is determined to prove that Kris is, in fact, the one and only Santa Claus.

The Miracle on 34th Street is a charming and wholesome Christmas movie that has become a beloved classic over the years. It is a heartwarming tale about the true meaning of Christmas - love, generosity, and believing in the impossible. The movie captures the spirit of the holiday season with its charming characters, festive setting, and timeless message.

Macdonald Carey is superb as Kris Kringle, bringing both warmth and playfulness to the role of the iconic Santa Claus. His portrayal of Kris is both authentic and magical, making it easy to believe that he really is the real deal. Teresa Wright is equally impressive as Doris, bringing depth and nuance to her character's journey from cynicism to faith in the magic of Christmas.

Young Sandy Descher is also wonderful as Susan, capturing the innocence and wonder of childhood with her sweet and sincere performance. Thomas Mitchell, a prolific character actor of the time, is brilliant as the determined lawyer Fred Gailey, bringing charm and wit to the role. The supporting cast, including veteran actor Edmund Gwenn as the judge who presides over Kris's case, also deliver strong performances that add to the movie's overall appeal.

Another standout aspect of The Miracle on 34th Street is its nostalgic and colorful depiction of New York City during the holidays. The movie was filmed on location, and the bustling streets, towering skyscrapers, and twinkling lights of the city are captured in all its festive glory. The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, a beloved New York City tradition, also plays a role in the movie's plot, adding to its charm and nostalgia.

Overall, The Miracle on 34th Street is a classic Christmas movie that deserves its place among the holiday season's most beloved movies. It is a heartwarming tale full of warmth, kindness, and the magic of believing in what seems impossible. The movie's central message - that the spirit of Christmas is about love, generosity, and faith in the goodness of people - is as relevant today as it was when the movie was first released over six decades ago.

The Miracle on 34th Street is a 1955 tv movie. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.0.