
Movie spotlight
Christmas Is
Benji is upset that he is playing the second shepherd in his school Christmas play for the second year in a row. But when Benji falls asleep while practicing his lines, his dream carries him and his dog Waldo to Bethlehem 2,000 years ago!
Insights
Plot Summary
This animated special explores the meaning of Christmas through the eyes of children. It features various vignettes and stories that highlight the spirit of giving, love, and togetherness. The narrative gently guides viewers to understand that Christmas is more than just presents and decorations, focusing on the emotional and communal aspects of the holiday.
Critical Reception
As a short animated special from the era, 'Christmas Is' was generally well-received for its wholesome message and gentle animation style, particularly by its target audience of families and children. It's often remembered as a charming, if less iconic, entry in the holiday special canon, praised for its sincerity and focus on the true spirit of Christmas.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its simple, heartwarming message about the spirit of Christmas.
Appreciated for its gentle animation and suitability for young children.
Seen as a pleasant, albeit less memorable, holiday special compared to others from the same period.
Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the special's nostalgic value and its effective delivery of a sincere Christmas message, finding it a gentle and appropriate watch for children during the holiday season.
Fun Fact
The special was produced by Bill Melendez, who is also famous for directing other classic animated Peanuts holiday specials like 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' and 'It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown'.
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