‘Twas the night before Christmas, and the Day 24 selection for my Christmas Movie Review is… yes, A Christmas Story – 1983, MGM. Those who know me well will wonder what took me so long to review this movie.

The answer is simple. I want to end my 25 day Countdown to Christmas with positive reviews – no big surprises – but movies you can count on to bring a smile and a little “believing to see” the miracles around.

This movie is seen through the eyes of a nine -year-old named Ralphie who has a mom with a heart of gold and a father who is all business. Oh, and he has an embarrassing kid brother named Randy who only seems to eat if he can oink like a pig.

The story probes the depths of being a kid in the 40’s who has his heart set on a Red Ryder BB gun that nobody, including his mom, his teacher, nor even Santa Claus thinks he should have.  He sets out to make his case to ensure he’ll attain his most cherished desire.

Through Ralphie’s minute-by-minute life observations, it’s easier to accept how weird our own families are by comparison. Watching his family’s hi-jinks puts the fun back in dysfunctional.

If you’ve seen this movie, you’ll know all the best parts.  I’m going to share only a few images so as not to spoil it for anyone who hasn’t yet discovered this treasure of a Christmas movie.

For those of you who think  you already know everything there is to know about A Christmas Story, here’s a fun quiz to test your knowledge.

Obviously I need to watch this movie again.  How did you do?

Of course, I’m giving this movie 5 of 5 Secret Decoder Rings. ♥♥♥♥♥

Was it double or triple dog dare?

They look normal.

Oinking

Thanks, Aunt Clara.

In his dreams.

The original bubble suit.

Do you think it was an accident?