Redwarmin
This movie is the proof that the world is becoming a sick and dumb place
Bardlerx
Strictly average movie
FrogGlace
In other words,this film is a surreal ride.
mobile707
Just saw it earlier this evening on ABC television. And really, it is one of those gentle pleasures in life that is just as wonderful as I (a small child in the 1970s) remembered it. Nothing put in that should have been left out, nothing left out that should have been put in. Simply pure joy from start to finish. The likeness of Mr. Astaire is a delightful bonus.I took a moment to read some of the other reviews posted in years past, and was intrigued by the reviewer who noted the subtle parallels between the Burgermeister's attempt to ban toys with the Hitlerite attempt to ban Jewish-influence from the life of Germany in the 1930s. That is a perceptive point, one that had eluded me even as an adult. Thankfully, this "lesson" is woven into the overall story so skillfully that it will not take away from a child's enjoyment.
TheLittleSongbird
I love the Rankin'/Bass Christmas specials. They are so timeless and relaxing to watch, and make you feel so cosy and warm, which is lacking in most Christmas movies of today. As of now, Santa Claus is Comin' To Town is one of my favourites, along with Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer and Frosty the Snowman. There are so many things to like about this special, whether it is the animation, the music or the writing.The animation is really lovely, perhaps a tad dated, but it does have this sophisticated look that adds to the special's innocence. The music is just gorgeous, the song that Jessica sings is just beautiful beyond words. As for the writing, I agree with anyone who says this one has the best writing out of the specials to come from Rankin'/Bass, a bit like I consider The Little Drummer Boy to be the most poignant. There are some sweet moments, but other parts are very funny, whether it is the interaction between the narrator and the children which was very entertaining, or the dialogue of the toy-hating Burgermeister Meisterburger such as "Ooooooouuu, I've been bamboozled". And anything Winter says borders on hysterical, like "you mustn't mind the tree monsters. Their bark is worse than their bite".The characters are wonderful, with Santa really charming here, and Burgermeister Meisterburger a sophisticated enough villain and a funny one too. And then we have the narrator, a wonderful one with some truly entertaining lines. And the voice work is outstanding, particularly strong work from Paul Frees in multiple roles including the villain of the piece Burgermeister Meisterburger. Mickey Rooney is his charming self as Santa/Kris Kringle, so he was an ideal casting choice, and Keenan Wynn was superb as Winter. And Fred Astaire, all I can say is like Rooney an inspired choice, and he was note-perfect. All in all, I am running out of things to say to praise Santa Claus is Comin' To Town, so little more to add than a 10/10. Bethany Cox
elvis45687
Like many who have posted, I too remember this annual jewel broad casted every year on TV. Many read too much into "Santa Claus is Comin' to Town" with claims that its about capitalism, communism, post Woodstock hippie values, etc, etc, etc....the fact of the matter is that it is wonderful little story built around a favorite holiday song. I understand that it is somewhat dated, but I believe it is no longer being broad-casted because of some of the strong religious overtones and clear declaration of good values in this oh so politically correct world of ours....yes, innocence has been long lost for most younger children.
trix_n_min
This is without a doubt my favourite Christmas movie of all time. Rankin Bass are always fantastic, but this film just shines that bit brighter than the rest. The voices are spectacular - Mickey Rooney and Fred Astaire - they don't really get much better than this. The songs are fantastic, the characters are so perfect and the backgrounds and buildings in the movie are just so lovely. This movie is pure magic, exactly how a Christmas movie should be. I love the story of Santa Claus, and this film really sticks to tradition which is great. I am an adult and watch this movie every time Christmas is approaching just to put me in the festive mood. It is truly magical, and not just my favourite Christmas movie, but one of my top ten films of all time. Love it.
