User Reviews

Miracle on 34th Street. Good Magic. "Miracle on 34th Street" is a warm and touching film that fills the soul with comfort and faith in kindness. The story of Santa, whom everyone begins to doubt, evokes a smile and reflects on the importance of dreams and faith. Excellent acting and atmospheric cinematography create a sense of magic. This classic film remains relevant, reminding us of the power of hope and the need to believe in kindness even in difficult times.

It takes a lot for me to fall for a sentimental Christmas movie, but this one displays excellent balance, charming performances and an original angle that still remains pertinent seventy years after the fact. Miracle on 34th Street thrives on Edmund Gwenn's definitive performance as Kris Kringle, the man who professes to be the one true St. Nick despite the protests of his bosses and coworkers at a busy New York Macy's. His warmth is enveloping and genuine, from the twinkle in his eye to the unspoken connection he shares with children. The film's cornerstone moment is an unexpectedly touching little interaction between Gwenn's Santa and a freshly-adopted little Dutch girl who absolutely blossoms when he speaks her native tongue. It's stuffed with such surprising bits of whimsy, even as the drama ratchets and we find ourselves in the midst of a courtroom drama, and that keeps things from feeling excessively heavy. In short, it's a heartwarming dash of holiday cheer that nails the spirit of the season without feeling too cheesy, preachy or religious. Well deserving of its reputation as a classic.

This is the first time I have seen this movie since I was a child and I have to say, I liked it a lot more now than I did when I was a kid. What a joyful and heartfelt movie with a lovely message for Christmas.

This film is a miraculous find. In my opinion, it is one of the best christmas films ever.

I will admit it, I may be biased. I love Christmas movies, such as Scrooge, It's A Wonderful Life, Muppet Christmas Carol and the first two Home Alone movies. But really your Christmas is incomplete without the original Miracle on 34th Street, which is quite simply a timeless Christmas treasure. It is magical, imaginative and in some ways witty as well. The simple but effective and sparkling plot tells of a man believing himself as Santa is institutionalised for being insane, but sets out to prove he is the genuine article. The screenplay is lovely, spirited and pleasant, maybe it needed to be a little more snappy in places but compared to how wonderful the film was I am past caring. The cinematography and scenery are fabulous, the whole film is stunning to watch, and the music is gorgeous. And the acting, one word superb! As Kris Kringle, Edmund Gwenn is just marvellous. He positively twinkles in the role, and did he deserve the Oscar win for best supporting actor. Why am I asking that, of course he did. Maureen O'Hara, who was a stunning actress is so lovely as Doris, and as Fred John Payne also shines. And Natalie Wood is believable and absolutely adorable as Susan. What makes this movie though is that it teaches great morals, without preaching. All in all, a truly great film, that made me believe in Santa. 10/10 Bethany Cox