How Many Miracle On 34th Street Are There
Okay, let's talk Miracle on 34th Street. We all know and love it, right? The feel-good movie about believing in something bigger than yourself, especially during the holidays.
But here's a fun question: how many versions of this Christmas classic actually exist?
The Original: Where it All Began
The story started with the OG, the granddaddy of them all: the 1947 film. It stars Edmund Gwenn as Kris Kringle, and it's practically cemented in holiday viewing traditions.
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This black-and-white gem won three Oscars, including one for Gwenn. It established the template for all the Miracle on 34th Street iterations to come.
Radio Days: Bringing the Miracle to Your Ears
Believe it or not, before TV took over, radio was the king of entertainment. Miracle on 34th Street was adapted for radio multiple times!
These weren't just readings of the screenplay. Famous actors lent their voices to the roles. Imagine hearing Natalie Wood reprising her role as Susan Walker on the radio!
Television Takes Center Stage
The small screen couldn't resist the charm of Kris Kringle, either. There have been at least two notable TV movie versions.
One aired in 1955, starring Thomas Mitchell as Kris. Then another in 1973, featuring Sebastian Cabot. Each brought their own spin to the jolly old soul.
The Big-Budget Remake: A Modern Miracle?
In 1994, a big-budget remake hit theaters, starring Richard Attenborough as Kris Kringle. It also starred Mara Wilson, who was super popular from the movie Matilda!
While some purists might scoff, it introduced the story to a whole new generation. Did it capture the magic of the original? That's a debate for another holiday dinner.
Stage Adaptations: Believing on Broadway (and Beyond!)
The story's heartwarming message translates beautifully to the stage. Several stage adaptations exist, some musicals, some plays.
These productions allow local theaters and schools to spread the Christmas cheer. Imagine belting out "It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" while dressed as an elf!
Beyond the Official: Inspired By...
It's worth noting that the Miracle on 34th Street's themes have inspired countless other stories. It's a testament to the story's enduring appeal.
So, while pinpointing an exact number of Miracle on 34th Street adaptations is tricky, we can safely say there are quite a few! Each one bringing a little bit of Christmas magic to the world.
So, How Many? The Unofficial Tally
Let's do a quick count. We have the original film, multiple radio plays, at least two TV movies, a major theatrical remake, and numerous stage versions.
Add in the countless community theater productions and films that borrowed its main message. That's a whole lot of believing in Kris Kringle!
Regardless of which version you prefer, the core message remains the same: a little bit of faith can go a long way. Especially during the holiday season.
