Download Christmas Holiday (1944) Colorized HD | Deanna Durbin | Film Noir Drama

A Yuletide Noir: Christmas Holiday (1944) in Stunning Color

Step into the shadowy world of post-war New Orleans with “Christmas Holiday,” a gripping film noir drama from 1944, now beautifully colorized for a viewing experience like never before. This film, directed by Robert Siodmak, delivers an unexpected blend of darkness and holiday atmosphere as it unravels a tale of shattered dreams and dangerous obsession. Perfect for fans of classic noir and those seeking a different kind of Christmas movie, this HD download brings a unique piece of cinematic history to your screen.

Christmas Holiday Storyline: A Soldier’s Encounter with a Haunted Past

“Christmas Holiday” begins on Christmas Eve, when Lieutenant Charles Mason (Dean Harens) finds his plans derailed by bad weather, forcing him to spend the holiday in New Orleans. Heartbroken after receiving news that his fiancée has married another man, Mason meets Jackie Lamont (Deanna Durbin), a singer working in a nightclub that doubles as a brothel.

As Mason and Jackie attend midnight Mass together, her emotional breakdown leads to the revelation of her true identity and tragic past. Through flashbacks, we learn that Jackie is actually Abigail Manette, wife of the charming but unstable Robert Manette (Gene Kelly). Their whirlwind romance and marriage quickly unraveled due to Robert’s violent tendencies and eventual arrest for murder.

The film explores themes of love, obsession, and the inability to escape one’s past, all set against the backdrop of a noir-tinged New Orleans Christmas. As Abigail’s story unfolds, the holiday setting provides a stark contrast to the darkness of her experiences, creating a unique and haunting atmosphere.

Stellar Cast

“Christmas Holiday” features a cast that might surprise fans of its stars:

• Deanna Durbin as Jackie Lamont / Abigail Manette

• Gene Kelly as Robert Manette

• Richard Whorf as Simon Fenimore

• Dean Harens as Lieutenant Charles Mason

• Gladys George as Valerie De Merode

• Gale Sondergaard as Mrs. Manette

Movie Genre

“Christmas Holiday” is a film noir drama that subverts expectations by casting musical stars Deanna Durbin and Gene Kelly in dark, dramatic roles. Its blend of holiday setting, noir aesthetics, and psychological drama makes it a unique entry in both the Christmas movie and film noir genres.

Historical Context: Unexpected Noir for the Holidays

Released in 1944, “Christmas Holiday” represents a departure from the typical fare associated with its stars and its holiday setting. The film showcases Hollywood’s growing interest in darker, more psychologically complex stories in the post-war era. By casting Durbin and Kelly against type, the film also demonstrates the industry’s willingness to experiment with star images and genre conventions.

Colorization Details

This colorized version of “Christmas Holiday” has been meticulously restored using advanced digital techniques. The process involved carefully analyzing the original black and white footage and assigning appropriate colors to each scene, enhancing the film’s noir atmosphere while bringing new life to its 1940s New Orleans setting.

The colorization accentuates the contrast between the glittering facade of the nightclub where Jackie works and the somber mood of her tragic backstory. It allows modern viewers to fully appreciate the film’s atmospheric cinematography and the nuanced performances of its cast.

Technical Details

• Director: Robert Siodmak

• Screenplay: Herman J. Mankiewicz

• Based on: the novel by W. Somerset Maugham

• Cinematography: Woody Bredell

• Edited by: Ted J. Kent

• Music by: Hans J. Salter

• Production Company: Universal Pictures

• Distributed by: Universal Pictures

• Runtime: 93 minutes

Technical Specifications

• Download Format: MP4

• Resolution: HD (1080p)

• Compatibility: Compatible with most devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs.

Critical Reception and Legacy

“Christmas Holiday” received mixed reviews upon its release, with many critics and audiences surprised by its dark tone and the dramatic turns from Durbin and Kelly. However, it has since been recognized as an intriguing noir entry and a showcase for its stars’ dramatic abilities. The film earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Musical Score for Hans J. Salter.

Today, “Christmas Holiday” is appreciated for its unique blend of noir elements and holiday setting, as well as for the against-type performances of its leads. It stands as a fascinating example of Hollywood’s experimentation with genre and star power in the 1940s.

FAQs

• Q: Is “Christmas Holiday” a typical Christmas movie?

  • A: No, it’s a film noir drama set during Christmas, offering a darker take on holiday-themed films.

• Q: How does the colorized version enhance the viewing experience?

  • A: The colorization brings out the noir atmosphere and 1940s New Orleans setting, adding depth to the film’s visual style.

• Q: Are there musical numbers in “Christmas Holiday”?

  • A: While Deanna Durbin does sing in the film, it’s not a musical in the traditional sense, focusing more on dramatic elements.

• Q: Why is this film considered unusual for its stars?

  • A: Both Deanna Durbin and Gene Kelly were known for lighter, musical roles. This film showcases their dramatic acting abilities.

• Q: Is “Christmas Holiday” based on a book?

  • A: Yes, it’s based on a 1939 novel of the same name by W. Somerset Maugham.

Download Now in HD!

Experience the Dark Side of the Holidays with “Christmas Holiday” Today!