Red Skelton Christmas Classics (in Color) is a 2016 compilation of classic Christmas sketches from the iconic comedian's long-lasting career. Red Skelton is best known for his witty humor and his ability to create lovable characters that continue to entertain audiences today. The compilation contains timeless sketches from the 1960s and 70s, colorized for contemporary audiences. The holiday theme punctuates each sketch, making it a refreshingly heartwarming Christmas experience.
The compilation starts off with Skelton's infamous portrayal of Freddie the Freeloader, a hapless but charming hobo who travels around in search of free food and shelter. Skelton's impeccable timing and slapstick comedy make for side-splitting laughter, but it is the touching subplot of Freddie's desire for a friend on Christmas that makes this particular sketch stick with viewers long after the special has ended.
The next sketch features Skelton as Cauliflower McPugg, a boxing champion who tries to help his family have a memorable Christmas. Skelton's physical comedy is on full display in this sketch, as he tries to win a prize fight against a younger and faster opponent. However, the real heart of the sketch lies in the touching moment when Cauliflower skimps on his prize money to buy a heartfelt gift for his family.
Another memorable part of the compilation is the hilarious sketch in which Red Skelton portrays Sheriff Deadeye and sets to catch the Toy Bandit who is stealing toys from local children. Skelton's unique comedic timing and his knack for improvisation come in handy in this sketch, as he uses his signature slapstick humor to save Christmas for the kids.
Skelton is also joined by his castmates in several comedy sketches throughout the film. They include the zany antics of Bolivar Shagnasty, a country bumpkin who brings Christmas joy to his town by calling aliens and Santa Claus on his CB radio. The chemistry between Skelton and his castmates is undeniable and their comedic interactions will leave viewers in stitches.
On a more sentimental note, Skelton also performs two touching monologues about the true meaning of Christmas. Despite the humorous tone of the special, these monologues offer a heartfelt reminder of the importance of family, kindness and love during the holiday season.
One of the most recognizable and enduring Christmas characters is Santa Claus, and Red Skelton's comedic take on the jolly man in red is a real highlight of the movie. In this sketch, Skelton plays Kris Kringle himself, and then doubles as the mischievous elves who work to make all the toys for the good boys and girls around the world. His impeccable comedic timing and his unique humor leave viewers feeling delightfully entertained and reminding them why Red Skelton was considered a master comedian of his time.
Suffice to say, the Red Skelton Christmas Classics (in Color) is a must-watch for any fan of classic American comedy or anyone who wants a good laugh this holiday season. Skelton's iconic style and unique humor have been endearing audiences for decades, and his Christmas sketches have become a cherished part of the holiday season for many. This colorful and enchanting collection of Christmas classics is family-friendly, heart-warming, and effortlessly funny, and is sure to become an annual tradition for any family who enjoys Christmas humor that never goes out of style.
Red Skelton Christmas Classics is a 1955 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes.
