Overview
A heartwarming tale that rekindles the magic of belief during the holiday season.
Ember's analysis
- Pacing
- Measured
- Intensity
- Mild
- Complexity
- Simple
- Violence
- None
- warm
- sincere
- nostalgic
- christmas viewing
- family movie night
What critics said
Critics were divided, with some praising Richard Attenborough's sincerity and the film's family appeal while others found the remake less enduring and more depressing than the original.
What sets it apart
May contain story progression spoilers
Susan's doubts about Santa and her encounter with Kris Kringle drive the emotional and relational transformation.
Kris Kringle is recruited for a department store Christmas parade and becomes central to its holiday operation.
Susan's Christmas hopes ultimately center on receiving something to believe in rather than ordinary presents.
The film is a 1994 remake of the 1947 Miracle on 34th Street, with John Hughes among its writers.
Films like Miracle on 34th Street, and why
Miracle on 34th Street
Shared Christmas fantasy, family warmth, child-centered wonder, and belief-driven emotional storytelling.
The Santa Clause
Shared holiday setting, magical realism, family appeal, and an idealistic challenge to adult cynicism.
Elf
Shared Christmas sentiment, childlike belief, comedy-drama tone, and a fantastical visitor who renews family hope.
The Polar Express
Shared seasonal fantasy, emotional family themes, and a gentle conflict between skepticism and wonder.
Movie Details
- Director
- Les Mayfield
- Release Date
- 1994-11-18
- Runtime
- 114 min
- Rating
- 6.8 / 10 (1198)
Cast
- Mara Wilson
- Richard Attenborough
- Dylan McDermott
- Elizabeth Perkins
- J.T. Walsh
- James Remar
- Robert Prosky
- Jack McGee
- Jennifer Morrison
- Jane Leeves
Where to watch in United States
- Streaming
- Disney Plus
- Rent
- Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Fandango At Home
- Buy
- Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Fandango At Home
Streaming options come from TMDB and change over time.
Common questions
- What is Miracle on 34th Street about?
- A skeptical child, a devoted mother, and a department-store Santa rediscover the power of Christmas belief in 1990s New York.
- What is Miracle on 34th Street like to watch?
- Ember's analysis rates the pacing of Miracle on 34th Street as measured, its intensity as mild and its storytelling as simple.
- Is Miracle on 34th Street violent?
- No — Ember's analysis finds no violence in Miracle on 34th Street.
- What did critics think of Miracle on 34th Street?
- Critics were divided, with some praising Richard Attenborough's sincerity and the film's family appeal while others found the remake less enduring and more depressing than the original.
- Which films are like Miracle on 34th Street?
- Films with a similar feel include Miracle on 34th Street, The Santa Clause, Elf, and The Polar Express.
- How long is Miracle on 34th Street?
- Miracle on 34th Street runs 114 minutes.
- Where can I watch Miracle on 34th Street?
- In United States, Miracle on 34th Street streams on Disney Plus.
