Here at NPR, the debate about what defines a Christmas movie takes center stage as Marc Rivers, a film-obsessed producer, delves into the tiers of holiday films and what makes them truly festive. Let’s explore his take on the Christmas movie spectrum.

Full Review

Marc Rivers breaks down Christmas movies into three tiers, highlighting that a holiday film can range from being centered around Christmas to simply featuring it as a backdrop. He discusses classics like “A Christmas Story” and “Elf,” categorizing them based on their level of Christmas immersion.

From movies where Christmas is the driving force of the plot to those where it merely adds a touch of holiday spirit, Rivers provides a unique perspective on how viewers can interpret and enjoy festive films. He even delves into the controversial topic of whether “Die Hard” qualifies as a Christmas movie, placing it in a tier that bridges the gap between holiday themes and action-packed narratives.

As the discussion unfolds, Rivers shares his personal favorites for the holiday season, including “The Apartment” and “Elf,” emphasizing how these films capture the essence of Christmas in different ways. His insights offer a fresh lens through which to view the diverse landscape of holiday cinema.

Conclusion

In a world where the definition of a Christmas movie is constantly evolving, Marc Rivers’ breakdown of holiday film tiers provides a thought-provoking analysis of what makes these films resonate with audiences. Whether you’re a fan of heartwarming classics or prefer a subtle touch of Christmas magic, there’s a movie for everyone to enjoy during the festive season.

FAQs

1. What are the three tiers of Christmas movies according to Marc Rivers?

Marc Rivers categorizes Christmas movies into three tiers based on their level of holiday immersion, ranging from films where Christmas is the central theme to those where it serves as a background element.

2. Does “Die Hard” fit into the second tier of Christmas movies?

Yes, according to Marc Rivers, “Die Hard” falls into the second tier of Christmas movies as it features holiday elements that contribute to the plot but could be replaced without altering the core narrative.

3. What is an example of a tier three Christmas movie?

Films like “Eyes Wide Shut” and “The Apartment” are considered tier three Christmas movies, where the holiday serves as atmospheric background rather than driving the storyline.

4. Which movie does Marc Rivers watch every December?

Marc Rivers mentions “The Apartment” as a film he watches annually for comfort during the holiday season.

5. What makes a Christmas movie relatable to viewers?

According to Marc Rivers, tier three Christmas movies, where the holiday is ornamental, resonate with audiences as they reflect the everyday realities of life with Christmas as a subtle backdrop.

6. How does Marc Rivers differentiate between tiers when discussing holiday films?

Marc Rivers distinguishes Christmas movie tiers based on the extent to which the holiday influences the plot, categorizing films from Christmas-centric to those where the holiday plays a minimal role.

7. What is the significance of intergenerational nostalgia in holiday movies?

Movies like “Elf” and “The Lord of the Rings” evoke intergenerational nostalgia, fostering family traditions and connections through shared viewing experiences during the holiday season.

8. How does the discussion around Christmas movies add depth to the holiday viewing experience?

By dissecting the nuances of holiday films and debating their Christmas essence, viewers can gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse interpretations and emotional impact of these seasonal favorites.

9. What role does sentimentality play in defining a Christmas movie?

Sentimentality in Christmas movies, as highlighted by Marc Rivers, is earned through genuine emotional connections and relatable themes that resonate with audiences, making these films timeless classics.

10. How does the debate surrounding “Elf” showcase the varying interpretations of Christmas movies?

The discussion on “Elf” exemplifies the diverse perspectives on what constitutes a Christmas movie, from the whimsical magic of the holiday season to the underlying themes of family, friendship, and personal growth that transcend traditional holiday narratives.