Cast
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Crew
Director
- Arthur Rankin, Jr.
- Jules Bass
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
A Christmas Tree represents a fascinating example of Animation/Family/Fantasy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Arthur Rankin, Jr. brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1972, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of A Christmas Tree took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 23 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 78 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 10 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1972, when this film was released:
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While A Christmas Tree shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike A Christmas Love, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, A Christmas Tree subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban explore similar territory, A Christmas Tree stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 17, 1972
- Runtime: 23m
