When most think of Christmas films, their mind naturally wonders towards classics such as It’s a Wonderful Life or even some of the more modern hits like the Home Alone franchise. Yet, it is unlikely they find themselves thinking back to the original Christmas movie, the first of a genre, one dating all the way back to 1898.
Simply titled ‘Santa Claus’, this groundbreaking silent film of the past is credited as the earliest documented depiction of that Christmas magic on screen. The movie was created by an English filmmaker named George Albert Smith who was born in raised within Sussex. The film runs for just over a minute and depicts the titular Santa Claus climbing down a family’s chimney to deliver toys for two children, who are seen extatically hanging their stockings prior to being put to bed by their maid.
The brief short film was heralded as a technical marvel at the time and is even believed to be the first example of the technique of parallel action being used within film, balancing both the scenes with Father Christmas and the children simultaneously. George Albert Smith also implemented the use of the double exposure technique which curated the illusion of Santa appearing and disappearing- a breathtaking special effect for the time sure to wow viewers.
However, what truly makes the silent film ‘Santa Claus’ so remarkable is the foundation it set for Christmas-centric storytelling in the world of cinema, establishing legitimate expectations for the future of the fledgling genre. The film captured the wonder and mystery exhibited by the holiday season and clearly addressed themes which to this day continue to dominate the genre of Christmas movies to this very day.
Despite being rather simplistic when compared to the modern standard of films, ‘Santa Claus’ holds a unique and undeniable place within film history. It serves to remind us that even in the earliest days of cinema, it held the power to supply festive cheer and capture the imagination of audiences of all ages.
So, maybe next time you settle in and consider a holiday movie marathon, spare a moment to think of the small 1898 film that began it all, relish in the proof that the magic of Christmas has always been a perfect fit for the silver screen.
