The Original Christmas Specials Collection review by Bobby Blakey
Like most kids from my generation we loved the traditional stop motion animated specials during Christmas. None of them were better than the iconic Rankin/Bass productions and to this day still air as stables of holiday programming. Now Universal is bringing 5 of these classic specials together for The Original Christmas Specials Collection Steelbook.
The Original Christmas Specials Collection features unforgettable stories including Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Santa Claus is Comin' To Town and The Little Drummer Boy featuring the iconic "Animagic" stop-motion animation and Frosty the Snowman and Cricket on the Hearth beautifully animated. Starring the iconic voice talents of Fred Astaire, Jimmy Durante, Mickey Rooney, Danny Thomas, Burl Ives and many more, these favorites also feature some of the most beloved songs of the holiday season and are sure to entertain audiences of all ages for generations to come!
Despite the simplicity of the visuals on these specials they are results of an insane amount of work and artistry that I still love. They are all beautiful and vibrant visually and you can’t help to smile while watching them. I am partial to the stop
motion stuff as I don’t think we get enough of it these days, but the traditional animation specials are great as well. Not only are the iconic stories, but take you back instantly to your childhood. I have the other side of connecting with watching these same specials with my kids which showcases the power of their legacy.
This is such a great collection and one that everyone needs to have. Of course they still air these on TV, but why wait until then to be able to enjoy them when you can have them right there ready at any given moment. In addition to the 5 specials this release offers up a ton of bonus content including commentaries, featurettes and so much more.
Grab your copy of The Original Christmas Specials Collection Steelbook available now on Blu-ray from Universal Home Entertainment.
