A Christmas Carol - 1951

Excellent adaptation of this classic story. This well known version has a great script that moves smoothly and even neatly fills in a few of the gaps in the Dickens story. Exceptional performances by both Alastair Sim as Scrooge, as well as a superb supporting cast, that gave great emotional depth to the changes in Scrooge. Excellent B&W filming that succeeded in enhancing the various emotional levels created in this film. Wonderful detail in both the sets and costuming. As a fan of “Christmas Carol” in all its various adaptations (including the cheesy ones), the holidays are not complete without viewing this particular one! Definitely one of my top two favorites! *****

Oklahoma - 1955

Wonderful musical with the remarkable music of Rodgers and Hammerstein, including the well known “O What a Beautiful Morning.” Based off of a stage production, this film included many things that would have been impossible on stage: fields of corn, horses, burning haystack and buggy race, to name just a few. Excellent cinematography and choreography! Superb performances from Shirley Jones, Gordon MacRae and Rod Steiger in the lead roles. Good performances from the supporting cast as well, although I had a hard time accepting Eddie Albert in the role of the Persian peddler. One weakness was probably the main confrontation between Curly and Jud. It was pretty mild and over so quickly you hardly knew it had happened. Although this is not my favorite Rodgers & Hammerstein production, it is definitely one that has been watched many times.  NOTE: Although fairly family friendly, this story does handle some adult topics.****