Miracle on 34th Street
Santa's reality questioned in heartwarming holiday drama
About Miracle on 34th Street
Released: 1994
Platform: Disney+
Rating: PG
Run time: 1h 54m
Cast
Richard Attenborough, Elizabeth Perkins, Dylan McDermott, J.T. Walsh, James Remar, Jane Leeves
About Miracle on 34th Street
"Miracle on 34th Street" is a charming and whimsical holiday-themed film that was released in 1994. The story revolves around a department store Santa who claims to be the real deal. A skeptical little girl and her disillusioned mother are drawn into his magical world, leading to a heartwarming journey of faith and belief.
Making / Production
This film is a remake of the classic 1947 movie of the same name. Directed by Les Mayfield and produced by John Hughes, it captures the essence of the original film while adding a modern twist to the tale. The movie was shot largely in Chicago as well as New York City during the intensely festive season to imbibe the holiday spirit.
Actors
- Richard Attenborough stars as Kris Kringle. He filled the role with earnestness, enchanting audiences with his genuine portrayal of Santa Claus.
- Elizabeth Perkins plays Dorey Walker, the tough, savvy, and skeptical mother who gradually allows herself to believe in the magic of Santa Claus.
- Mara Wilson plays Susan Walker, the little girl with a logical mind who changes her doubts about Santa after meeting Kris Kringle.
- Dylan McDermott portrays Bryan Bedford, Dorey's boyfriend and a lawyer who defends Kris in court with heartfelt conviction.
Trivia / Interesting Facts
- Richard Attenborough took on the role of Santa Claus merely a year after directing the epic movie "Jurassic Park."
- Mara Wilson, famed for roles in "Matilda" and "Mrs. Doubtfire," was merely six years old during the filming of the movie.
- This was the last movie that screen legends Maureen O'Hara and Edmund Gwenn appeared in together.
Awards
While the movie itself didn't win any major awards, Richard Attenborough's heart-warming portrayal of Kris Kringle was lauded by critics and audiences alike.
Quotes
- “If you can't accept anything on faith, then you're doomed for a life dominated by doubt.” - Kris Kringle
- “I'm not just a whimsical figure who wears a charming suit and affects a jolly demeanor. You know, I'm a symbol. I'm a symbol of the human ability to be able to suppress the selfish and hateful tendencies that rule the major part of our lives.” - Kris Kringle
- “I wasn't born yesterday you know.” - Susan Walker
Music, Soundtrack
- "Jingle Bells" - Performed by Natalie Cole
- "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town" - Performed by Ray Charles
- "Silver Bells" - Performed by Johnny Mathis
About Miracle on 34th Street
A young girl befriends a department store Santa who claims to be the real deal stirring buzz of a Christmas miracle.