Christmas Movies Actually

James Laczkowski James Laczkowski

Episode 44: Fanny and Alexander (Christmas Movies Actually)

Break open the cognac and settle in as Collin, Kerry and guest Brad Strauss unwrap Ingmar Bergman's celebrated, Oscar-winning "Fanny & Alexander" (1983). Which should you watch, the theatrical or TV version? How far are any of us from Lapland? And which of the great directors made the best and worst final films of their careers? All this and more in the most epic edition of the "We Just Say Book" segment yet recorded.

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James Laczkowski James Laczkowski

Episode 43: Mixed Nuts

Collin and Kerry are joined by their friend Christopher Grace for a 45-minute discussion on Nora Ephron's ensemble comedy, "Mixed Nuts" (1994). The runtime is notable because Siskel & Ebert could barely talk about this movie for two minutes. How does it compare to Martin Scorsese's "After Hours"? Why did Steve Martin dye his hair? What's the connection between this film and Bergman's "Wild Strawberries"? Answers are given and you won't be put on hold.

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James Laczkowski James Laczkowski

Episode 42: Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas (1997) and Rapsittie Street Kids: Believe In Santa (2002)

An animation spectacular! Settle in with your talking teacups and incoherent relatives and enjoy the discussion of "Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas" (1997) and "Rapsittie Street Kids: Believe In Santa" (2002). This month, Kerry and Collin dive into a direct-to-video sequel to one of the greatest animated films of all time, as well as a Christmas special that has gained notoriety as one of the very worst of all time. Both feature the voice of Paige O'Hara.

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James Laczkowski James Laczkowski

Episode 41: Babes In Toyland - Director's Cut (1986)

Kerry and Collin unearthed the Director's Cut of this pretty terrible movie, a cut that runs 2 hours and 22 minutes and features lip syncing by Drew Barrymore, Keanu Reeves and Pat Morita, none of which is remotely convincing. This is the third version of "Babes In Toyland" that has been discussed on the show and certainly the most nightmarish and bizarre (which is really saying something after that terrifying Mickey Mouse/monkey hybrid from the Laurel & Hardy version). Many conspiracy theories are discussed with regards to who is singing what. Also, is it possible to make a Terrence Malick Christmas movie? Listen and find out.

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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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