463 A Christmas Story (Full Episode)

463 A Christmas Story (Full Episode)

Author: Steve Morris & John Rocha December 24, 2025 Duration: 2:32:02

On a very special episode of The Cine-Files, Steve Morris and John Rocha travel back in Santa's sleigh to 1983 to revisit and discuss the modern Christmas classic 'A Christmas Story' from director Bob Clark and starring Peter Billinglsey, Darren McGavin, and Melinda Dillon. Based on the book 'In God We Trust: All Others Pay Cash' by Jean Shepherd with a screenplay by Shepherd, Clark and Leigh Brown, the film is presented in a series of vignettes, following a 9-year-old Ralphie Parker (Billingsley) and his family's misadventures in Northwest Indiana around the late 1930s or early 1940s. All Ralphie wants for Christmas is a Red Ryder Carbine Action 200-shot Range Model air rifle. Ralphie's request is rebuffed by every adult, all of whom insist Ralphie will shoot his eye out. Will Ralphie get his wish or will he shoot his eye out? Leonard Maltin proclaimed the film "a top screen comedy". Roger Ebert initially gave the film three stars out of four, but later awarded the film four stars and added the film to his "Great Movies" list. Over the years, the film's critical reputation has grown considerably and it is regarded by some as one of the best films of 1983. In his book Have Yourself a Movie Little Christmas, critic Alonso Duralde lists A Christmas Story in his chapter of "Christmas Classics". Steve and John go thru the movie scene by scene and break down the direction, acting, storylines, cinematography, score, themes, message, philosophical debates and more.


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Hosted by Steve Morris and John Rocha, The Cine-Files is a weekly deep dive into the movies that matter. This isn't just a review show; it's a guided tour through the layers of a single film, examining the craft, context, and conversation surrounding it. Each episode selects one picture-whether a classic, a contemporary standout, or an overlooked gem-and unpacks its artistic themes, the historical moment it came from, and the vision of the filmmakers behind it. The discussion naturally extends to how these works echo through cinema today, drawing connections that illuminate both the past and present of the medium. For anyone who watches a movie and immediately wants to discuss the director's choices, the cultural impact, or the hidden details in the script, this podcast provides that thoughtful, engaging dialogue. Listen in for analysis that treats film with the seriousness and enthusiasm it deserves, transforming the way you see the stories on screen. The Cine-Files is built for the curious viewer who believes every great film has more to say long after the credits roll.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Cine-Files
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