Miracle On 34th Street MPAA Rating: PG Entertainment: +4 Content: +3

In this remake of a 1947 holiday classic film, writer/producer John Hughes has created a fabulously appealing and moving Christmas film. Using the original theme, he tells the story of a young girl, Susan Walker (Mara Wilson), who comes to believe in Santa Claus even though her mother has told her he is a myth. It all starts in New York City at a Thanksgiving parade where a stranger (Richard Attenborough) takes over at the last minute as Santa Claus. He charms the crowd immensely as he rides his sleigh down the street waving and throwing kisses. Susan's mother, Dorey Walker (Elizabeth Perkins), who works at Cole's Department Store, hires him on the spot, but becomes disturbed when he insists his name is Kris Kringle and he's the real Santa Claus. Being a divorced mom with bitter memories, she has a distrusting outlook on life. But young attorney Bryan Bedford (Dylan McDermott), who wants to marry her, takes on Kringle's case when he faces trumped up assault and battery charges. He also takes on the job of proving in court that Kris is mentally competent. Interwoven among the pathos and drama of the film are beautiful, snowy scenes of New York at Christmas time along with festive, romantic Christmas music. Miracle on 34th St, is an artistic and entertainment miracle in itself. It will truly appeal to all ages in the family.

MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET is refreshingly free of offensive elements, and viewers will experience the true meaning of faith, love, and the importance of the family. Kris is a lovable, kind man who truly loves children. Susan is a real joy, too. She exemplifies the hopes and wonderment of children everywhere at Christmas time. However, she does refer to men cleaning up horse "poop" and to attorney Bedford as "kicking the bottom" of the opposing courtroom attorney. These along with two instances of rough language are probably inserted to avoid a G rating. The romantic relationship between Dorey and Bryan proceeds on a high level and finally arrives at an unusual, surprise marriage. Even the Cole Department Store implements some unorthodox, commendable policies which wins the admiration of its customers. Many films portraying wholesome, loving characters lack believability and impact, but this one has a realistic feeling and will appeal to even the most "sophisticated" movie goer. Congratulations to 20th Century Fox and to the talented filmmakers who created this marvelous film.

Preview Reviewer: John Evans
Distributor: 20th Century Fox, 10201 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90035