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Five for Families: Family films portray Santa Claus
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Edmund Gwenn won an Oscar for his role as Kris Kringle, here trying to help young Natalie Wood understand the meaning of Santa Claus in "Miracle on 34th Street" (1947), to be shown at BYU for free on Thursday, Dec. 11. - photo by Deseret Connect
Christmas time is abundant with movies about Santa. "Miracle on 34th Street" (1947) is a classic. Here are five other films about St. Nick for families to consider:

iTunes: 'Miracle on 34th Street' (1947)

A man is hired at Macys department store and claims to be the real Santa. When the department stores manager, who teaches her daughter not to believe in Santa, hears about his claims, her views of Christmas are put to the test in the 1947 Christmas film Miracle on 34th Street. The Dove Foundation awarded the film its Dove Family-Approved seal for all ages, stating that the film is an irresistible fable that has for many become synonymous with celebrating Christmas. The website adds, This great black and white classic holiday film is one of those films the whole family can watch over and over again. If we could only go back to making films like these for our families. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 3 and older.

Amazon Instant: 'The Santa Clause'

After Santa falls from the roof, Scott Calvin must take on the job, which includes a transformation into St. Nick. MovieGuide.org says the movie is fun, lightweight fare. The website also notes the relationship between a divorced dad and his son and calls the movie a truly delightful adventure fantasy" that is "definitely an uplifting experience. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 7 and older.

iTunes: 'Arthur Christmas'

An operational glitch at the North Pole leaves one girl without a Christmas present. Arthur embarks on an urgent mission to deliver the gift and restore faith in Santa. The Dove Foundation awarded the film its Dove Family-Approved seal for all ages, and notes the movie makes the point that Christmas is a season about giving and it does so in style! Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 6 and older.

Amazon Instant: 'Santa Claus is Comin' to Town'

This 1970 stop-motion animated film features a mailman who tells the origin story of Santa Claus. Common Sense Media calls the film a "winner for families" and notes that the film reminds viewers that spreading joy can have far-reaching effects. The website also states the classic style has a soothing effect that somehow suits the comforts of the holidays perfectly. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 4 and older.

iTunes: 'Rise of the Guardians'

Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy, the Easter Bunny and the Sandman join together to stop the boogeyman when he threatens to take over the world. Common Sense Media notes the ingenious plot and surprisingly substantive messages, "dazzling" visuals, "fantastic" voice performances and humorous dialogue that make the movie a refreshing treat. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 6 and older.