Product ReviewsThe House Without a Christmas Tree (DVD, 1972)

Early 70's TV classic holds up with distinction!

An absolutely beautiful movie. This very sweet and simple story about a truly complex family is set against the backdrop of a late 40's mid-west Christmas and merits regular holiday viewing. I was eight when I first saw this so it retains a particularly nostalgic appeal for me. I just watched it again this year after having not seen it for some time and was enchanted anew. I've always admired the likabilty factor of the Jason Robards persona but here is one role where he completely turns the tables. You really grow to despise this embittered old cuss who, for selfish yet tragic reasons, won't allow his ten-year-old daughter to have a Christmas tree. He'll eventually need a Scrooge-like revelation to snap out of his funk. Luckily, we don't have to see much of him in the early goings on. It is here that we are allowed to enter the cozy schoolgirl life of Addie Mills and her adoring yet restrained grandmother. Lisa Lucas is wonderful as the confused child grappling to make sense of her father's obvious disdain for her. The acting is top-notch all around, but this one really belongs to the legendary character actress Mildred Natwick whose subtlety in crafting the torn grandmother, wanting desperately to repair the estrangement yet wary of the inevitable storm, is something all serious actors should appreciate and strive for. They don't make'em like her anymore! This was shot on video giving it a crisp texture that mixes well with the Nebraska snow. The tiny box of a house with it's homey stove-piped kitchen gives an authentic impression as does the gentle, sometimes haunting music score. But I think the thing that still resonates most with me are the striking visual images created for the commercial fades. I first saw them through the eyes of a child and that design element, as well as this gem of a film, continue to intrigue.Read full review...

A House Without a Christmas Tree

This 1972 TV movie was made in the direct video format, meaning that 'film' was not used. It appears as if to be a stage production with a few outside scenes. Very little background music used. Jason Robards plays the widowed father, who is disillusioned about the Christmas season because of the loss of his wife. His daughter, played by Lisa Lucas, is a 10 year old who wants a Christmas tree in their home. Mildred Natwick plays the Grandmother, who does her best in keeping the family functional. The story centers around a conflict between father and daughter about having their own Christmas tree. The movie is excellent in quality, sharpness, and content. And while this is not the usual 'packaged' Christmas movie with lots of seasonal music, it touches the hearts of those cherish the Christmas Season. A true Classic! I'm So thankful that it has come out on DVD! What a Special Christmas Gift!!!Read full review...

Great Family Film

Heartwarming Christmas movie

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Start a tradition!

Great holiday movie that focuses on personal relationships in a challenging, but feel good way.

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"The House Without a Christmas Tree"

Hi,
I have this item on video and am about to purchase it on DVD. This story is terrific. It's right up there with the beloved "A Christmas Story " with Ralphy and Randy. It's takes us back to a time that is not so long ago to some of us.

Motherless Addie wishes to have a Christmas Tree at her home. Her father does not want to have one. He has not wanted to celebrate Christmas since his wife died when Addie was very small. It is up to Addie and her grandmother to convince him it is now time to have a Christmas tree. Jason Robards and Mildred Natwick do a fine job as the father and grandmother. Highly Recommend.
DLKRead full review...

Classic!

I haven't seen this movie since I was a kid. It's a great Christmas classic. It's nice to have it in my collection.

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Great for families

A very inspiring movie about loss and reawakening of the holiday spirit. What the little girl does with the tree is very thoughtful & a revalation to the main character. As good as I remembered it!

A favorite classic for all to enjoy! Great price!

This is a classic! I already had a VHS tape, and I wanted a DVD.

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Roger

Old fashioned Christmas movie love it

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Great Movie

I watched this movie when I was a little girl in the 70"s and loved it from then on! My mom was visiting during Christmas of last year and what a treat it was for us to watch it again together!

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