Cast
View AllMaya Rudolph
as Mother Parker
Chris Diamantopoulos
as Old Man Parker
Ana Gasteyer
as Mrs. Schwartz
Andy Walken
as Ralphie Parker
Matthew Broderick
as Ralphie as an Adult
Tyler Wladis
as Randy
Jane Krakowski
as Miss Shields
David Alan Grier
as Santa Claus
Ken Jeong
as Christmas Tree Man / Chinese Restaurant Owner
Nick Mara
as Caroler
Brandon Arreaga
as Caroler
Austin Porter
as Caroler
Edwin Honoret
as Caroler
Zion Kuwonu
as Caroler
Fred Armisen
as Elf
Crew
Director
- Scott Ellis
- Alex Rudzinski
Writer
- Jonathan Tolins
- Robert Cary
Producer
- Zachary Woodlee
- Benj Pasek
- Justin Paul
- Gregory Sills
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
A Christmas Story Live! represents a fascinating example of TV Movie/Music 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 Scott Ellis 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 2017, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of A Christmas Story Live! took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 131 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 174 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- The musical score contains over 38 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2017, when this film is released:
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While A Christmas Story Live! shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Christmas on Mistletoe Lake, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, A Christmas Story Live! offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Rooftop Christmas Tree and Christmas in Carolina explore similar territory, A Christmas Story Live! 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, 2017
- Runtime: 2h 11m