TV Show Review: A Charlie Brown Christmas

Stars: 5 out of 5

Pros: A classic holiday special on DVD to be enjoyed any time

Cons: Lack of extras

The Bottom Line:

Enjoy this special

By a little Christmas tree

Must watch every year

Can It Really Be Christmas without A Charlie Brown Christmas?

Note: This review is based on the original DVD release of the special, which is the only one I own

Christmas is coming, but Charlie Brown can't get into the Christmas spirit. Seems all the hustle and bustle leaves him feeling sad. Lucy suggests that he direct the Christmas play, but it doesn't seem to be helping. Can Charlie Brown find the real meaning of Christmas?

This is an absolute holiday classic. I can remember watching this every year growing up when it was on TV, and today it never fails to put me in the Christmas mood. It's really amazing how well this stands up, even though the animation is far from perfect and some of the references are out of date. (Aluminum trees anyone?) Still, for me, that's part of the charm. All the characters are true to their comic strip personalities, making for some very funny lines and moments.

Also included on the DVD release is It's Christmas Time Again, Charlie Brown. This second special is an animated collection of some of the Christmas themed strips from the late 80's. There's no single story and it's not as charming as the first, but I enjoy it and its great moments. Basic stories include Sally being afraid she'll mess up her one line in the Christmas play ("Hockey Stick!"), Snoopy acting as a Salvation Army bell ringer, and Charlie Brown trying to earn enough money to buy mittens for Peggy Jean, a girl he met at camp the summer before.

The DVD offers no extras beyond these two Christmas features, but the picture quality and sound are excellent.

A Charlie Brown Christmas is a must for all Peanuts fans, but belongs in the library of anyone who enjoys Christmas specials so it can be enjoyed year after year.