A Christmas Story . Weekly Alibi . 12-29-97

A Christmas Story

DIRECTED BY: Bob Clark

REVIEWED: 12-29-97

Initially ignored on its theatrical release, this hilarious film has gone on to become a holiday classic. There's only one "scary Santa" scene, but is it memorable. Based on the writings of homey humorist Jean Shepherd, Story tells the story of young Ralphie (Peter Billingsley) and his holiday wish for a Red Ryder BB gun. Every adult in the film confronts poor Ralphie with the mantra "You'll shoot your eye out!" including a boozy-looking department store Santa. Ralphie's visit to Santa is shot through a distorted fishbowl lens for an even more frightening childlike perspective. Little brother Randy is reduced to instant tears. The nasty assistant elves add even more paranoia to the proceedings. Director Bob Clark shot Porky's 2 the same year. Scary.

--Devin D. O'Leary

Other Films by Bob Clark
Baby Geniuses
Black Christmas
Children Shouldn't Play With Dead Things
Porky's

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