Holiday movie pick: A Christmas Story (1983)
This film is one that people either love or hate. My wife doesn't really like it. I like it, but it always makes me feel a little uncomfortable. I think this is because the film somehow digs at childhood memories that are often painful to relive -- even in a fictional setting.
The main plot centers around Ralphie, who's trying to convince everyone that he needs a Red Ryder B.B. gun for Christmas. But there's so much more going on. For example: Ralphie and his brother have to contend with bullies on their walk home from school (one of the pains of childhood for many kids).
Then there are the comedic scenes -- all seen through the lens of memory in the 1940s. Some of my favorites include Ralphie's parents, played by Darren McGavin and Melinda Dillion. The one about the lamp shaped as a woman's leg is priceless.
But I also liked McGavin's battles with the pack of roving wild dogs who eventually ruin Thanksgiving dinner.
