For countless viewers across the UK, the festive season officially begins not with the first mince pie, but with the first viewing of a cherished Christmas classic. Tonight, that tradition continues as BBC Four broadcasts the timeless musical, 'White Christmas'.
A Festive Staple Returns to Our Screens
Scheduled for 7.05pm on Thursday, November 27, the 1954 film features an all-star cast headlined by the legendary Bing Crosby, alongside Danny Kaye and Rosemary Clooney. The plot is a heartwarming tale of camaraderie and holiday spirit, following two former army comrades who, after serving in World War 2, become entertainers.
They join forces with a talented sister act in a mission to save a struggling Vermont inn, which happens to be owned by their beloved former commanding officer. Filled with joyous song and dance, the film is the very definition of a feel-good Christmas story.
Audience and Critical Reception
The film's enduring appeal is reflected in its review scores. On the critic aggregation site Rotten Tomatoes, White Christmas holds a solid 76% rating based on 46 reviews. Its audience score is even more impressive, with a whopping 89% of viewers giving it a positive rating.
Fans often describe the film as an essential part of their holiday. One enthusiastic viewer called it their "absolute favourite" that transports them to a different time, while another praised its "Christmas magic" and the 10/10 chemistry between Crosby and Kaye.
Another review embraced its sentimental nature, stating, "Is it corny? Yes. Is it totally unrealistic? Yes. Is it still absolutely wonderful? Yes. The greatest Christmas movie of all time." A four-star review highlighted Bing Crosby’s legendary vocal performances as a key reason for the film's status as a timeless holiday classic.
However, the film is not without its detractors. Some critics have found it too "schmaltzy and cheesy," with one one-star review deeming it "long & boring."
The Legacy of the Song 'White Christmas'
It is impossible to discuss the film without mentioning its iconic title track. 'White Christmas', written by Irving Berlin and immortalised by Crosby's voice, is more than just a song in the movie.
It has become a cultural phenomenon, reigning as the biggest-selling single of all time with over 50 million copies sold worldwide since its initial release in 1942. It frequently tops polls for the greatest Christmas song ever recorded.
At its heart, White Christmas is an old-school musical that champions simple, powerful sentiments: loyalty, hope, and the belief that togetherness can overcome any obstacle. For those seeking a dose of pure, unadulterated festive cheer, tuning into BBC Four at 7.05pm tonight might be the perfect start to the holiday season.
