angelafranklin-27341 This Christmas program is not going to please many people because it lacks a huge WOW FACTOR in terms of visuals. What it does so wonderfully is that it lets you use your imagination. Mabel Beaton uses puppets in this program to great effect. The story is pace beautifully. The film is made "WITH GREAT LOVE" which is apparent.The way this program was made and produced I am sure was the inspiration for the well know "Rankin-Bass" Christmas Specials. If you have kids watch this with them during the holidays. It may play on some PBS stations but it is however worth buying. Trust me it is GREAT.

Christmas-Reviewer This special was made years before I was born. Watching Christmas Theme Programming daily (From August-December) I found this Television Program produced in 1952 a delight. There have been many advancements in Animation since this was produced however there is something so elegant about seeing a story told with marionettes. In this special we get 2 stories told in just 30 minutes. The first is "The Night Before Christmas" and the 2nd is "The Nativity" Both specials are made with TLC and the makers of this film made this for children but its so well done that adults will love this as well! This Special would be perfect to watch on Christmas Eve before your children go to bed! This has a special "MAGIC" to it. Its almost like a storybook come to life. BUY IT!

nodrogdrappehs55 I agree wholeheartedly with Tom' comments. This is what children suchas myself grew up on, not the sub adequate shows on TV today. The localstation here in Phila only shows the Spirit part of the marionetteprogram, but not the Nativity scene, which I guess is just a sign ofour times. However, it is a treat to see this, even if only for once ayear! Alexander Scourby, who starred and was the voice over for both the shows, was the perfect choice. As a bit of trivia, he appeared years later in a role as an older businessman on (I believe) General Hospital. His was a voice that, once heard, was never mistaken for another. My grandaughters now watch this show with me every Christmas season, so I guess this is a nice legacy to pass down

Mary Peterpuffer One of the Greatest all time films of Christmas. this immortal classic is a story which is in two parts. The First is - The Night Before Christmas and the second is - The Nativity. both stories are beautifully recited and are staged with a musical background in classic and traditional style. The Marionettes are created for this 1950's TV Christmas classic probably represented the cuttingedge of creativity in puppeteering.These classic Christmas tales will be enjoyed by young and old alike. A Christmas must see. this puppteering may have provied inspiration for future successes like Howdy Doody, Kukla Fran & ollie, and much later, the Jim Henson family of characters. You and your family will rediscover the warmth and charm of these classic.