A Christmas Story (1983) — Review, Streaming & Trivia
A Christmas Story (1983) is a hilarious and nostalgic holiday comedy that has become one of the most quoted and rewatched Christmas films of all time. Set in the 1940s, the film follows nine-year-old Ralphie Parker and his singular obsession with getting a Red Ryder Carbine Action 200-shot Range Model air rifle for Christmas, despite every adult warning him that he'll shoot his eye out. Directed by Bob Clark and based on Jean Shepherd's semi-autobiographical stories, A Christmas Story perfectly captures the magic, anticipation, and occasional chaos of childhood holidays, from the legendary leg lamp to the tongue-stuck-to-the-flagpole scene.
Last updated: February 2026
A Christmas Story
In 1940s Indiana, a young boy named Ralphie attempts to convince his parents, his teacher, and Santa that a Red Ryder BB gun is the perfect Christmas gift.
About A Christmas Story
A Christmas Story (1983) is a hilarious and nostalgic holiday comedy that has become one of the most quoted and rewatched Christmas films of all time. Set in the 1940s, the film follows nine-year-old Ralphie Parker and his singular obsession with getting a Red Ryder Carbine Action 200-shot Range Model air rifle for Christmas, despite every adult warning him that he'll shoot his eye out. Directed by Bob Clark and based on Jean Shepherd's semi-autobiographical stories, A Christmas Story perfectly captures the magic, anticipation, and occasional chaos of childhood holidays, from the legendary leg lamp to the tongue-stuck-to-the-flagpole scene.
Cast
- Peter Billingsley
- Darren McGavin
- Melinda Dillon
- Ian Petrella
Where to Watch
A Christmas Story is currently available on the following platforms:
Trivia & Fun Facts
- TNT and TBS air a 24-hour marathon of the film every Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
- The house used in the film, located in Cleveland, Ohio, has been restored and turned into a museum.
- The film was a modest box office success but became a cultural phenomenon through repeated television airings.
- Author Jean Shepherd narrates the film as the adult Ralphie looking back on his childhood.
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