This week for the These Dads Are Doing It Right series I wanted to have some fun since we are ready to celebrate Christmas. I made a list of dads in holiday movies that deep down are doing it right. If you think I missed a dad or want to share your thoughts on dads in holiday movies please leave it in the comment section below.
Howard Langston – Jingle All The Way – Toy Hunter
Every year there is that one toy or gaming system that people are hunting for their kids to open up on Christmas Day. Howard Langston is a dad looking to make his kid’s holiday wish come true. He looks everywhere for a Turbo-Man, a popular television superhero. On Christmas Eve, Howard sets out to buy the toy, but finds that every store has sold out. In the process he develops a rivalry with Myron Larabee, another father with the same ambition. Howard does every thing he can to get a Turbo-Man. Langston and his son realize what is most important in life in the end of the movie.
Ralphie Parker – A Christmas Story Christmas – Living Up To Expectations
We all remember Ralphie’s dad, “The Old Man” coming through in the clutch on Christmas for Ralphie. Now we get to see Ralphie as a father in the Christmas Story sequel, A Christmas Story Christmas. In this film, Ralphie is all grown up and must deal with Christmas and all that comes with it as a dad. He is down on his luck, but tries his best to make a Christmas for his family to remember. I spoke with Peter Billingsley about his role and his fatherhood journey. You can check it out here.
Clark Griswold – National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation – Looking To Create Holiday Magic
Clark Griswold plans to have a great Christmas with his entire family. From driving to the country to get the perfect tree to setting up holiday lights that can be seen from miles away, Clark wants the perfect Christmas. In addition he and his family are dealing with all the “fun” that comes with family staying for the holiday. Even though he loses his temper from time to time, his intentions are pure. Ultimately he gets his family the gift they will love and they all have a wonderful Christmas.
Bob Cratchit – A Christmas Carol – Working Hard For His Family
Bob Cratchit is Ebenezer Scrooge’s underpaid clerk in the classic story A Christmas Carol. Although a central figure of the tale, he is overshadowed by that of Ebenezer Scrooge. Cratchit has a large family and tries to make ends meet with the low salary. Though he is treated poorly by Scrooge, he is shown to be very loyal to his boss. In addition, Bob really cares about his family and works so hard so he can provide for his family.