Claymation, a charming form of stop-motion animation using clay figures, has been bringing Christmas magic to life for decades. From heartwarming classics to quirky modern tales, these movies have become an integral part of holiday traditions for many. Let’s embark on a festive journey through time, exploring the wonderful world of claymation Christmas movies, specials, and short films.
The Early Days: 1960s-1970s
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)
- Studio: Rankin/Bass Productions
- This beloved TV special, while technically using “Animagic” (a form of stop-motion with puppets), laid the groundwork for future claymation Christmas classics.
The Little Drummer Boy (1968)
- Studio: Rankin/Bass Productions
- Another Rankin/Bass gem, this special tells the touching story of a poor boy who gives the gift of music to the newborn Jesus.
Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town (1970)
- Studio: Rankin/Bass Productions
- This origin story of Santa Claus features the voices of Fred Astaire and Mickey Rooney, blending claymation-style animation with holiday cheer.
The Golden Age: 1980s-1990s
Will Vinton’s A Claymation Christmas Celebration (1987)
- Studio: Will Vinton Studios
- This Emmy-winning TV special features the California Raisins and other clay characters celebrating Christmas through song and dance.
The Little Troll Prince (1987)
- A lesser-known but charming claymation special about a troll prince who learns the true meaning of Christmas.
Olive, the Other Reindeer (1999)
- Studio: DNA Productions
- Based on the children’s book, this quirky special follows a dog named Olive who believes she’s destined to be Santa’s new reindeer.
The Modern Era: 2000s-Present
The PJs: A Very Special Christmas (2000)
- While primarily a stop-motion animated series, this Christmas special episode incorporated claymation elements.
Elf: Buddy’s Musical Christmas (2014)
- Studio: Screen Novelties
- This claymation adaptation of the hit movie “Elf” brings Buddy’s adventures to life in a new, musical format.
Shaun the Sheep: The Flight Before Christmas (2021)
- Studio: Aardman Animations
- While Aardman is known for their plasticine animation, this holiday special incorporates claymation techniques in its charming storytelling.
Short Films and Specials
Davey and Goliath: Christmas Lost and Found (1965)
- A claymation short featuring the popular Christian characters in a holiday adventure.
The Klay World Christmas Special (2003)
- Created by Robert Benfer, this quirky YouTube claymation short brings humor to the holiday season.
A Very Harryhausen Christmas (2010)
- A tribute to stop-motion pioneer Ray Harryhausen, this short film blends claymation with other animation styles.
From the nostalgic charm of Rankin/Bass productions to the modern wit of Aardman Animations, claymation Christmas movies have evolved while maintaining their unique appeal. These films, with their tactile textures and handcrafted feel, continue to capture the imagination of viewers young and old. Whether you’re revisiting childhood favorites or discovering new clay-animated wonders, these movies offer a special kind of magic that only claymation can bring to the holiday season.
So, grab some hot cocoa, snuggle up under a warm blanket, and let these claymation Christmas classics transport you to a world where every snowflake is lovingly crafted and holiday miracles are molded by hand. Happy watching!
