All I Want for Christmas (1991)
Release Date:
1991
Movie Rating:
PG
Runtime:
1h 32m

Synopsis:
All I Want for Christmas is a family-friendly holiday movie that follows siblings Ethan and Hallie O'Fallon as they embark on a mission to reunite their divorced parents for Christmas. With the help of their friends and a little holiday magic, the kids come up with a plan to bring their mom and dad back together. As they navigate through a series of comedic and adventurous situations, Ethan and Hallie are determined to make their Christmas wish come true. Along the way, they encounter a variety of characters, including a mischievous Santa and a charming department store elf, who add to the festive chaos. The movie captures the spirit of the holiday season with its lighthearted and entertaining storyline.






All I Want for Christmas, released in 1991, is a family comedy that captures the whimsical spirit of the holiday season. As a movie rated PG, it is designed for kids and offers a lighthearted and festive experience. Most parents appreciate its charming storyline and the nostalgic feel, though some note that it may not hold the attention of today's tech-savvy children.
Why Kids Should Watch All I Want for Christmas
The movie is celebrated for its heartwarming portrayal of family and holiday spirit.
- Promotes the importance of family togetherness and love.
- Features a memorable scene where siblings work together to achieve a common goal.
- Offers a visually appealing depiction of a magical Christmas setting.
- Includes humorous moments that are enjoyable for both kids and adults.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch All I Want for Christmas
Some parents express concerns about the movie's outdated elements and pacing.
- May present an unrealistic view of family dynamics.
- Includes a scene where children engage in mildly deceptive behavior.
- The pacing might be slow for children accustomed to fast-paced media.
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Parents are divided—some love it, others raise concerns about its outdated elements and pacing.
What Parents Should Know About All I Want for Christmas
Question | Answer |
---|---|
Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | The movie showcases siblings working together to bring their family closer, highlighting teamwork and cooperation. |
Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The theme of parental separation might require guidance to help children understand the context. |
Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | While some deceptive actions are taken by the children, the movie ultimately shows the importance of honesty and family unity. |
Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The siblings' collaboration to achieve their goal models positive teamwork and problem-solving skills. |
Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is the value of family and the joy of being together during the holidays, delivered through the children's efforts to reunite their parents. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
All I Want for Christmas is praised for its heartwarming holiday themes and the emphasis on family values. However, some parents feel that its pacing and certain outdated elements may not resonate with modern audiences. Engaging with children during the movie can help clarify any confusing themes and enhance their understanding of the story's positive messages. For those seeking a more contemporary holiday film, alternatives like "The Polar Express" or "Elf" might be more engaging.
Official All I Want for Christmas Trailer
All I Want for Christmas, released in 1991, is a family comedy that captures the whimsical spirit of the holiday season. As a movie rated PG, it is designed for kids and offers a lighthearted and festive experience. Most parents appreciate its charming storyline and the nostalgic feel, though some note that it may not hold the attention of today's tech-savvy children.
Why Kids Should Watch All I Want for Christmas
The movie is celebrated for its heartwarming portrayal of family and holiday spirit.
- Promotes the importance of family togetherness and love.
- Features a memorable scene where siblings work together to achieve a common goal.
- Offers a visually appealing depiction of a magical Christmas setting.
- Includes humorous moments that are enjoyable for both kids and adults.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch All I Want for Christmas
Some parents express concerns about the movie's outdated elements and pacing.
- May present an unrealistic view of family dynamics.
- Includes a scene where children engage in mildly deceptive behavior.
- The pacing might be slow for children accustomed to fast-paced media.
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Parents are divided—some love it, others raise concerns about its outdated elements and pacing.
What Parents Should Know About All I Want for Christmas
Question | Answer |
---|---|
Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | The movie showcases siblings working together to bring their family closer, highlighting teamwork and cooperation. |
Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The theme of parental separation might require guidance to help children understand the context. |
Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | While some deceptive actions are taken by the children, the movie ultimately shows the importance of honesty and family unity. |
Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The siblings' collaboration to achieve their goal models positive teamwork and problem-solving skills. |
Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is the value of family and the joy of being together during the holidays, delivered through the children's efforts to reunite their parents. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
All I Want for Christmas is praised for its heartwarming holiday themes and the emphasis on family values. However, some parents feel that its pacing and certain outdated elements may not resonate with modern audiences. Engaging with children during the movie can help clarify any confusing themes and enhance their understanding of the story's positive messages. For those seeking a more contemporary holiday film, alternatives like "The Polar Express" or "Elf" might be more engaging.
Official All I Want for Christmas Trailer
The Core Values Learned From All I Want for Christmas
All I Want for Christmas's most common core values include Family love, Teamwork, and Perseverance. The movie showcases family Love as the siblings, Ethan and Hallie, work tirelessly to bring their parents back together, demonstrating the deep bond and affection they have for their family. Teamwork is highlighted as the kids collaborate with their friends and even some unexpected allies to execute their plan, showing how working together can help achieve a common goal.
Perseverance is evident as Ethan and Hallie face numerous challenges and setbacks but remain determined to make their Christmas wish come true, teaching kids the importance of not giving up even when things get tough.
Other Core Values Explored: Appreciating family | Generosity | Gratitude | Helping others | Kindness | Problem-solving
The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From All I Want for Christmas
Importance of Family: Kids learn the significance of family bonds as Ethan and Hallie work tirelessly to reunite their parents. Their determination to bring their family back together shows how important it is to cherish and prioritize family connections.
Believing in the Power of Home: The movie emphasizes the comfort and warmth of home. Children see how the siblings' desire to restore their family home reflects their belief in its power to bring happiness and stability.
Holding Onto Hope: Throughout their journey, Ethan and Hallie never lose hope, even when faced with obstacles. This teaches kids the value of maintaining hope and optimism in challenging situations.
Supporting Your Friends: The siblings receive help from friends along the way, highlighting the importance of supporting and relying on friends. Kids learn that teamwork and friendship can make a big difference in achieving goals.
Practicing Empathy: The movie shows characters understanding and caring for each other's feelings. Children see how empathy can lead to stronger relationships and help resolve conflicts.
Other Lessons Learned: Treasuring Time with Loved Ones | Being True to Yourself
Why Kids Love All I Want for Christmas
All I Want for Christmas is a festive adventure that sweeps kids into a whirlwind of holiday fun and mischief. The movie is filled with hilarious antics as siblings Ethan and Hallie team up with a mischievous Santa and a charming elf, creating a lively atmosphere of pranks and slapstick comedy. Kids will be thrilled by the cartoon-style chaos as the siblings navigate awkward situations and unexpected mishaps in their quest to reunite their parents. The film is a delightful mix of silly jokes and heartwarming moments, where teamwork and friendship shine through.
As Ethan and Hallie make new friends along the way, kids will enjoy the excitement of forming bonds and helping others. The movie's playful spirit and engaging storyline make it a joyful ride, capturing the magic of the holiday season with laughter and adventure.