Darren McGavin as the ‘old man’ made the movie work.
Wow, I love A CHRISTMAS STORY. I think what makes the movie work is its heart. Underneath all the laughs (and tears) there is a real heart. Look at the scene where “the old man” asks what the gift is in the corner. He’s just as excited as Ralphie. He doesn’t often show it but you can see the love for his son. It’s little moments like that that make the movie truly special.
While there are numerous joys to be had, one of my favorite scenes is near the end, when “the old man” is sitting in the chair, watching the snow fall. His wife sits next to him and he hugs her. I’ve hugged my wife like that on Christmas night.