Don’t mistake me for an Ebenezer ; I mean no ill-will toward Frosty whatsoever. All I’m saying is that when it comes to choosing between the two, Rudolph guides my sleigh.
By no means is it perfect, and yes there are elements that haven’t aged particularly well. It’s just that when you compare the two, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is a better Christmas Special than Frosty .
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For starters, the narration is far superior.
Don’t hear what I’m not saying: I have a serious appreciation for Jimmy Durante . But listening to the voice of Burl Ives immediately transports me back to my childhood.
His voice is as smooth as eggnog, and just as sweet.
It’s Claymation animated!
Be honest: everything looks better in stop-motion Claymation! There’s just something about that style of rendering that evokes a deep sense of nostalgia.
I also love the way that claymation food looks — is that weird?
All jokes aside, *Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer* teaches kids to question the status quo.
Elves build toys. That’s the way it is and the way it always has been at the North Pole. But Hermey is different.
His desire to break the mold and become a dentist is an inspiring example for kids (and adults) to follow their dreams, regardless of what people tell you you can or can’t do.
*Rudolph* also has a far superior supporting cast
I already mentioned Hermey, but don’t forget about the story’s real hero — Yukon Cornelius!
There’s also Sam the Snowman, Mrs. Claus, and my personal favorite: the Abominable Snowmonster of the North Pole.
*Frosty* only has one (annoying) song.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer , on the other hand, is filled to the brim with an elective assortment of holiday classics, as well as festive originals!
Do you remember ” Silver and Gold “? That was always my favorite.
*Rudolph* has a much deeper and more complex mythology behind it.
Admit it: you loved the Island of Misfit Toys! How could you not? It breaks my heart thinking of all the years they spent hoping and waiting for Santa to come.
I never quite understood why they were considered misfits, though? Call me crazy but I for one would have loved a water pistol that shoots jelly.
The film has a powerful message regarding the importance of inclusion and forgiveness.
You should never judge someone by their appearance, nor should you ever presume to know someone’s value. That’s the message at the core of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer .
Which is exactly the kind of message you want from a classic Christmas special.
