This season is a time of celebration and joy but sometimes, with the aim to capture the spirit, films and performances run the risk of just being sentimental or corny. So, what makes a first-rate performance in a holiday film? There's an old theater adage, “If it ain't on the page, it ain't on the stage.” We agree and think that the most essential element in any film is a compelling story that gives the framework for the performances. With that said, let’s look at a few films with a standout performance and a solid story to back it up.
1. It’s a Wonderful Life
This profoundly emotional film possesses a supernatural element (an angel is sent from heaven to save a broken man) and portrays characters who are good-intentioned but flawed. It’s within this framework that Jimmy Stewart’s conviction makes the film fully come to life. Stewart avoids getting hokey or sentimental by creating a fully fleshed out, three-dimensional man who is brought to the brink of suicide then made to see life as it would have been without him in it. His commitment and imaginative engagement in rendering rich, alive personal relationships brings this unforgettable character to life and we, as an audience, suspend our disbelief as the angel Clarence, gives hope to this lost soul.
2. Miracle on 34th Street
This is another film that takes a supernatural (albeit, a bit more Disneyesque) approach that incorporates a Santa Claus incarnate on a visit to earth sent to convince a non-believer to believe. The overall acting is good, even if it doesn't possess the depth of emotion of a film like It’s A Wonderful Life, it’s the earnest openness of a young Natalie Wood and the endearing conviction of Edmund Gwenn as Kris Kringle that gives Miracle on 34th Street staying power as a Christmastime classic.
3. The Bishop’s Wife / The Preacher’s Wife
The Bishop's Wife and its updated remake, The Preacher's Wife with Denzel Washington and Whitney Houston, again depict supernatural angels visiting troubled people that come to change the course of these lost souls’ lives. Audiences connect to the underlying message while becoming engaged by believable, naturalistic performances. Denzel Washington possesses humor and intelligence while bringing the angel to life in a very humanizing way and Whitney Houston creates an engaging portrait of an unfulfilled wife drawn to this visiting angel. The actors bring their relationship to life with ease, imagination, and charm; a romantic backdrop to the spirit of the season makes these two films holiday favorites.
4. The Best Man Holiday
This comedy/drama centers around a holiday reunion for a group of friends who must face one of the character's surprising announcement that she has cancer. Monica Calhoun portrays Mia Sullivan with grace and poise and demonstrates the message of Christmas: love, faith, and acceptance. She creates a deep, pure, powerful character with strength and courage as she comes to terms with her fate. Lighter, romantic performances within the film delivered by actors Terrence Howard and Taye Diggs balance the darker elements and make this a holiday favorite.
5. White Christmas
White Christmas (with Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye) is lighter fare which is a festive and entertaining feel-good family film, but the simple story is enhanced by music and song and once again, the skill of the performers. There is a certain charm and effortless energy generated between Crosby and Kaye. They bring a relaxed naturalism to the film that, combined with some unforgettable musical numbers including its namesake “White Christmas,” transcends the formulaic plot to capture the heart of the story.
So, what makes a great holiday film? It’s a timeless, universal, deeply human story, portrayed by skillful actors who give indelible performances. So, check out some of our favorites and add yours to the comments section below. Happy Holidays!
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and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Backstage or its staff.
