Plot Introduction"Miracle on 34th Street" is a 1947 American Christmas comedy-drama film directed by George Seaton, based on a story by Valentine Davies. The movie centres around the character Kris Kringle, who claims to be the real Santa Claus. The plot thickens when Kringle is institutionalised as insane. A young lawyer then chooses to defend him by arguing in court that he is the genuine Santa.
Setting and CharactersThe story is set in New York City, particularly centred on the renowned Macy's outlet store. The primary characters include Kris Kringle (Edmund Gwenn), young lawyer Fred Gailey (John Payne), his love interest Doris Walker (Maureen O'Hara), and her non-believing daughter, Susan (Natalie Wood).
The StorylineThe motion picture begins with Kris Kringle finding that the male designated to play Santa in the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade is intoxicated. Amazingly, Kris performs superbly in the parade convincing Doris, the parade's director, to employ him as Macy's Santa. Kris, nevertheless, raises eyebrows when he sends out moms to other shops when Macy's lacks what their kids requested, an uncommon method that however increases Macy's sales and goodwill.
Debate and Court CaseKringle's claim that he is certainly Santa Claus leads to his sanity being questioned. He lands up being institutionalized at Bellevue Hospital following a run-in with a psychologically biased staff member. Fred Gailey, a neighbour and good friend, actions in, having Kris launched into his care and arguing his case in court. The critical point of the case rests on whether Gailey can prove Kringle is really Santa Claus.
The Verdict and EndingThe lawsuit draws national attention and the judge, with his political future hanging in the balance, is reluctant to declare outright that there is no Santa Claus. The crux comes when the U.S. Postal Service delivers bags of letters dealt with to Santa Claus into the court, establishing recognition by federal government of Kringle's title. For this reason, the judge rules in favour of Kris, stating him to be Santa Claus.
Meanwhile, a hesitant Susan, who had been taught not to think in fantasies, had actually asked Kris for a real house for Christmas as evidence of his identity. Post-verdict, Doris, Susan and Fred discover a home identical to the one Susan longed for, leading them to genuinely acknowledge Kris's claim of being Santa.
Conclusion"Miracle on 34th Street" is a charming, heartfelt film that attract young and old alike. It's a timeless vacation classic that efficiently records the spirit of Christmas, discussing themes of faith, kindness, and magic. Filled with remarkable performances, particularly from Gwenn who won an Academy Award for his role, it beautifully makes clear the message that often, believing is seeing. The movie has actually since been remade a number of times, but numerous consider this 1947 original version to be the best rendition.
Top Cast
