Christmas Movies Actually

James Laczkowski James Laczkowski

Episode 40: Christmas In Connecticut

Kerry and Collin celebrate the 75th anniversary of the incredibly charming "Christmas in Connecticut" (1945). Yes, they are well-aware Arnold Schwarzenegger directed a remake for television in 1992 and they'd rather be unaware of it. They also talk about a few other Christmas films watched over the holiday season. Also, more TV recommendations, "We Just Say Book" and a thank-you to all the guests of 2020.

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James Laczkowski James Laczkowski

Episode 39: Home Alone

Kerry and Collin talk with film critic Matt Fagerholm (RogerEbert.com) about the beloved classic, "Home Alone" (1990), which celebrates its 30-year anniversary. They discuss why the film has endured, its flaws, the careers of John Hughes and John Candy and, of course, how it compares to the French horror film, "Code Pere Noel." Also, more TV recommendations and an update on Kerry's book progress.

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James Laczkowski James Laczkowski

BONUS! Beth Crowley and Her Song "You Ruined Christmas"

Welcome to Christmas Songs Actually! Here is a bonus episode in which Kerry and Collin talk to singer/songwriter Beth Crowley about her Lifetime/Hallmark Christmas-movie-themed song, "You Ruined Christmas." They also talk about Christmas short films and where to find them. Also, TV talk and how The Flintstones connect to the music of U2.

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James Laczkowski James Laczkowski

Episode 38: Dear Santa (2020)

Collin and Kerry interview documentary filmmaker Dana Nachman about her latest film, "Dear Santa" (2020), which opens in theaters and on VOD on December 4th. The film looks at the efforts of Operation Santa, an organization that has been around since 1912 and helps those less fortunate during the holidays. It's the feel-good movie we all need right now. Plus, a segment of holiday TV special recommendations.

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James Laczkowski James Laczkowski

Episode 37: Star Wars Holiday Special

Kerry and Collin are joined by former Director's Club co-host Brad Strauss to talk all things "Star Wars," namely the 1978 Holiday Special, the Ewok movies, the Christmas album and the LEGO Star Wars Holiday Special, currently on Disney+. With plenty of audio clips from your favorite Star Wars musical numbers, we'll "take you higher than the diamonds in the sky." Stir-whip-stir!

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James Laczkowski James Laczkowski

Episode 36: Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey

Kerry and Collin are joined by film critic Leo Brady (amovieguy.com) to talk about Netflix's recent release, the musical fantasy "Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey." Just how well do these big musical numbers mesh with the sci-fi elements and the overall human story? How does Buddy 3000 stack against Johnny Five? There's a lot to talk about here, plus Kerry's own journey to see all 1,001 Movies You Must See Before You Die. And be sure to follow Leo Brady's Christmas movie watching journey on Twitter @leosamovieguy, #amerrymovieguy.

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James Laczkowski James Laczkowski

Episode 35: Silent Night, Deadly Night

Kerry and Collin are joined by Patrick Ripoll (of Directors Club and Tracks of the Damned) to talk about the controversial-at-the-time slasher classic, "Silent Night, Deadly Night." Did parent groups in Wisconsin have a right to be upset by it? More importantly, how's the soundtrack? We dive in and explore what makes this movie unique and unsettling.

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James Laczkowski James Laczkowski

Episode 34: Rare Exports

This month, Kerry and Collin are joined by Christine Sellin to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the Christmas cult film "Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale." This horror treat from Finland delves into Norst mythology, mysteriously slaughtered reindeer, childhood fears and capitalism. It accomplishes a lot in 82 minutes. Perfect for Christmas or Halloween.

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James Laczkowski James Laczkowski

Episode 33: Santa Buddies

Kerry and Collin fill the episode with tangents of a slightly darker nature, but also find time to talk about the "Air Bud'-inspired, direct-to-minivan concoction "Santa Buddies: The Legend of Santa Paws," in which cute little puppies must save the spirit of Christmas. This episode is longer than the film itself, but it provides plenty of dog food for thought (but not for kids). EXPLICIT!

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James Laczkowski James Laczkowski

Episode 32: Get Santa

Kerry and Collin take a look at the British comedy, Get Santa, starring Jim Broadbent as Santa Claus (again). The hosts had slightly different reactions to it, but Collin did get to re-discover a Christmas song he forgot he liked and Kerry talks about "Red River" (1948), "From Here To Eternity" (1953), "Atlantic City" (1981) for the We Just Say Book segment.

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