The Man Who Saved Christmas is a heartwarming drama based on the life of innovative inventor and toy maker A.C. Gilbert (Jason Alexander, The Grand, Seinfeld), a man with a belief that playing helps children learn, imagine... more », and dream. With the support of his loving wife, Mary (Kelly Rowan, The O.C.), A.C. and his brother Frank run a successful toy factory. But when WWI breaks out, A.C. is under pressure to let the U.S. Government turn the factory into a munitions plant. With some help from his son and a little holiday magic, A.C. rediscovers his holiday spirit and convinces the U.S. Congress that what America really needs is a little Christmas joy.« less
A "feel good" tale that's just right for Christmas
Bill Egan | Florida USA | 02/24/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"A.C. Gilbert couldn't stop the war, but he made sure the war didn't stop Christmas. When the War Department asks Gilbert to turn his toy factory into a munitions plant during World War I, he agrees ..... for awhile. When the government wants America to give up Christmas, he turns that thought around and goes back into the toy business while maintaining his government contracts at the same time.
Jason Alexander, provides a wonderful portrayal of A.C. Gilbert and proves he can move far beyond his annoying character from "Seinfeld." Kelly Rowan is perfect in the role of Mary, A.C.'s wife, and Ari Cohen is marvelous as Frank Gilbert, A.C.'s brother who becomes lost in the fighting "over there."
While not historically accurate in all the details, this film provides a nice glimpse into life in the early part of the 20th century. Scenery and costumes are beautifully done and seeing all the things made from A.C. Gilbert Erector Sets makes me wish that I still had mine.
It's a heartwarming, intelligent story - perfect for watching every Christmas."
Mr. Gilbert Also Goes to Washington
Carlton Moyers | WA USA | 11/14/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"My wife and I give this movie two thumbs up, and she gave it one star less. She also said it wasn't your traditional Christmas movie. Set around WWI, Christmas is alive and well but war also encroaches, tugging at the heart as loved ones await the fate of a favorite son who goes MIA. The cast radiates in this real life drama and the cinematography captures the essence of early 20th century Christmas with great lighting and eye candy. Mr. Gilbert really does go to Washington and manages to really save Christmas from a group of rabid congressmen. Okay, maybe they were mostly stuffy. A wonderful story, true Christmas and war. It goes up in my list as one we're glad we bought."
The Man Who Saved Christmas
P. Riddle | Columbia, SC | 10/26/2009
(4 out of 5 stars)
"I worried that this movie might be a little boring but purchased it anyway because I enjoy watching Jason Alexander and Ed Asner. I loved the small-town scenes and old-time romance between Jason's character and his wife. These days it is hard to find a movie where a husband and wife support each other in spite of adversity and naysayers. I love the fact that this is based on a real person. It is heartwarming and will make you want to hug all your family. This movie is suitable for all ages."
Real life Christmas magic
S. Daman | Monroe, MI United States | 01/06/2009
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This movie is about a little known piece of American history that you should know. Have you heard of Erector sets? What about the man who created them? Who would have guessed that a toy maker had such an influence on the homefront of a world war? I don't want to give away too many details that will spoil a first time viewing. I will say it's a wonderful true life lesson about the power of the heart and how important it is to hold on to what brings you hope, especially in the most difficult of times. It's not preachy. It's not heavy handed.this is meant for the whole family to enjoy, to learn from and to remember fondly. I recommend it."
Holiday movie for the whole year
M. K. Glenn | Black Mountain N.C., | 08/10/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This movie is one that could be viewed anytime of the year. While the ending focuses on saving the Christmas that was almost cancelled, the rest of the movie is the story of a man who was a child at heart. Through his understanding of children and what they love, he created toys that revolutionized the industry, and brought children along into the mechanical and technological age that swept this country at the climax of WWI. I was fascinated to watch the evolution of toys that I remember as a child. My grandchildren will love this film, and maybe realize that I didn't really play with dinosaurs when I was little....we had toys then too!"