A CHRISTMAS STORY (1983) (****)
I've been religiously watching this film every year around Christmas since my parents bought our first VCR. I've seen it dozens of times and have memorized many of the more famous sections. I still laugh out loud each time I see it.
For those who don't know this slice-of-life film follows Ralphie Parker (Peter Billingsley, DIRT BIKE KID) and his attempts to get a Red Ryder carbon axle 200-yard-range model air rifle for Christmas. His mother (Melinda Dillon, MAGNOLIA) insists that he'll shot his eye out. Each attempt he makes to gain support for his side only seems to build his belief that there is a conspiracy again Red Ryder and his peacemaker.
The film is full of classic scenes. The sticking your tongue to a frozen metal pole scene. The saying "fudge" scene. The visit to Santa scene. Ralphie and friends' dealings with bully Scut Farkus (Zack Ward, ALMOST FAMOUS). Ralphie's dad (Darren McGavin, THE NATURAL, BILLY MADISON) and his leg lamp, aka a major award. I could go on but I'd end up naming nearly every scene. How many movies can you name almost every scene as a classic?