If you’re looking to mix up your Christmas movie lineup this year, consider stepping back in time with Santa Claus (1898), the world’s first known Christmas film. Created by British filmmaker George Albert Smith, this silent black-and-white short film is a mere 77 seconds long but groundbreaking for its era. It tells a simple story of two children being tucked into bed on Christmas Eve before Santa magically descends the chimney to leave gifts in their stockings.
At a time when cinema was still in its infancy, Santa Claus introduced innovative techniques like parallel action, depicting the children asleep while Santa navigates the chimney. This cinematic experiment is hailed by the British Film Institute as “visually and conceptually sophisticated” for its time, showcasing a remarkable leap in storytelling and special effects for the late 19th century.
Though rudimentary by today’s standards, with no sound and only a few shots, Santa Claus offers a fascinating glimpse into how early audiences embraced the magic of Christmas on screen. It’s a far cry from the CGI-laden epics of today, but its charm lies in its historical significance and the nostalgia it evokes.
You can watch Santa Claus for free on YouTube, making it an accessible piece of cinematic history. While it might not replace modern classics like Home Alone or It’s a Wonderful Life, this Victorian-era gem is a reminder of how the traditions we cherish have been celebrated for generations.
