Christmas movies have long been a source of joy and warmth during the holiday season. Among the classics like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Elf, The Polar Express has emerged as a modern classic, yet it remains a subject of much debate. In this article, we'll explore the film's unique qualities and why it has left such a lasting impression on audiences.

Unraveling the Mysteries of The Polar Express

Straight Into The Uncanny Valley

Released in 2004, The Polar Express was a groundbreaking film that utilized motion capture technology. This innovative approach aimed to capture the essence of the famous children's book, but it also led to some unexpected challenges. The film exuded a certain painterly quality, but it lacked the depth and substance of a full-length feature. Even those who enjoy the movie often focus only on the train sequence, overlooking the latter half of the story.The story follows Hero Boy, played by Tom Hanks in motion capture, who is losing his faith in Christmas when the Polar Express stops at his house. The Conductor, also played by Tom Hanks, urges him to board the train and embark on a journey to the North Pole. However, Hanks' performance as the Conductor falls short. He comes across as stern rather than the joyous guide one would expect on a train filled with children.There is one action scene in the film that stands out - when the train goes off track and crosses an ice-covered lake. This moment gives the film a sense of real stakes and momentum, but it is the exception rather than the rule. Outside of this scene, the movie drags, with poor CGI, a lack of plot, and annoying kids.

A Classic By Default

While The Polar Express is intended for kids, its status as a classic is somewhat questionable. In the 20 years since its release, studios have realized that children can be fully realized characters, but The Polar Express fails to take full advantage of this. There are moments of irritating dialogue and bizarre facial expressions that detract from the overall experience.Yet, it is precisely because the movie was aimed at kids that it has gained a following over time. As those kids have grown up, they look back on The Polar Express with nostalgia. This is similar to how the Star Wars prequels have found a dedicated fanbase. When we were kids, our taste was often questionable, and The Polar Express was just one of those movies that we loved.Today, The Polar Express is available to stream on Disney+ and Max, serving as a reminder of a film that may not be a masterpiece but holds a special place in the hearts of many. It is a movie that represents a particular era and a certain sense of childhood wonder.