Everyone has their favorite Christmas movies, but I think we can all agree that Rankin/Bass stop-motion films are an absolute must for the holidays. If you haven't seen them, they play every year around this time without fail!
They're impossible to miss, not to mention the catchy music that goes along with it!
Here's a quick list of the 5 best Rankin/Bass stop-motion films, and why!
1. "The Year Without A Santa Claus"
This classic Christmas tale tells of a year that Santa simply becomes too tired to deliver gifts all over the world. Mrs. Claus then encourages two elves take one of the reindeer, Vixen, in order to prove that people still have faith in Santa, in the hope that he will change his mind. Along the way they face a series of obstacles, including a twist on the climate; who doesn't love Heat Miser and Snow Miser! They're just too much!
2. "Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town"
There have been hundreds of different interpretations on the origins of Santa Claus, but this is by far the most entertaining! This story follows Kris Kringle, and how he became one of the most beloved figures in history. With the help of The Winter Warlock, Jessica, and Topper, Kris attempts to bring joy to the children of the world despite the best efforts of The Burgermeister Meisterburger.
3. "Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer"
Probably the most iconic Christmas story of all time, "Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer", has enraptured children for years. A tale of misfits coming into their own, Rudolph, Clarice, Hermey, The Abominable Snowman, Yukon Cornelius, and more all strive to find their place in the world. It is, be definition, a coming-of-age tale, wrapped up neatly in holiday cheer.
4. "The Little Drummer Boy"
"The Little Drummer Boy", while still technically a Christmas movie as it details the birth of Christ, it is not what one would initially register as holiday-esque, perhaps due to our new materialistic view of the holiday. However, It is a heart-warming tale of a young boy who has his faith restored in humanity, despite what obstacles he has faced, by giving his gift to the baby Jesus. It is a well-adapted way to explain the true origins of the holiday, and the meaning behind it.
5. "Nestor, The Long-Eared Christmas Donkey"
Similar to "The Little Drummer Boy", "Nestor, The Long-Eared Christmas Donkey" has less to do with our current perspective on the Christmas holiday, and more to do with it's origins. Yet another adaptation of the misfit trope, the story follows Nestor, a donkey ridiculed for his abnormally long ears, and his intended fate for something more. He eventually utilizes the one thing that sets him apart in order to protect and save Mary, Joseph, and soon-to-be-born baby Jesus. While inspiring, this last story can also be quite the tear-jerker.
Mostly made in the late 60s to mid 70s, these stop-motion pictures have weathered the test of time, proving to be suitable for children of all ages; Even those of us who are merely children at heart. So cuddle up on the couch in front of the fire with your family, friends, and perhaps a cup of hot chocolate, and sing along to Rankin/Bass Productions' truly one-of-a-kind works of art. King Moonracer from The Island of Misfit Toys approves.
