After Midnight

There has been much heated discussion through the ages over what film should hold the title of "best Christmas movie ever." Cups of eggnog have been spilled and families have been torn apart because of this. Old-school die-hards still insist that It's a Wonderful Life is the only holiday film that matters. A younger contingent will sucker punch you if you don't agree that the title belongs to A Christmas Story. It is a debate as old as the medium of film itself. Well, they're both wrong. Anyone with eyes knows in their heart that the best Christmas movie ever made is Gremlins. This 1984 black comedy has everything a person could want in a holiday picture. There are cute fuzzy creatures that turn into bloodthirsty demons. There are action-packed chases through snow-covered streets. And most important, there is Corey Feldman. Gremlins also spawned a merchandising franchise that made millions of dollars. Now if that doesn't sum up Christmas, I don't know what does. It is an allegory, warning us to obey our parents and respect the ancient wisdom of the East. Or maybe it's just a twisted romp with lots of blood and laughs. Either way, go check it out 6 p.m. Friday on the AFI big screen at Victory Park. Visit victorypark.com for details.
Fri., Dec. 28, 6 p.m., 2007