Video Librarian, January, 2006

Mr. Christmas. color. 56 min. Beth Brickell, Luminous Films, Inc., 3001 N. Grant St., Little Rock, AR 72207; 501-661-8125; www.luminousfilms.net/mrchristmas; amazon.com. 2005. DVD ISBN 0-9773287-0-8. $14.95. film

Mr. Christmas is a holiday movie more about the true meaning of the season than about how much loot children receive.  Set in 1940s Arkansas, the film presents a struggling young father unable to tell his five-year-old daughter the family can't afford the new bicycle she wants as a reward for being good all year. Authentic sets and costumes combined with a sincere and heartwarming story create a family tale reminiscent of classic holiday films. Recommended. - Denise A. Garofalo, Astor Home for Children Lib., Rhinebeck , NY