Contents
- 1 Introduction
- 2 Ranking the Best Animated Christmas Movies of the 1970s
- 3 Exploring the Cultural Impact of 1970s Animated Christmas Movies
- 4 A Look at the Animation Techniques Used in 1970s Animated Christmas Movies
- 5 How 1970s Animated Christmas Movies Reflected the Decade’s Social Issues
- 6 A Comparison of the Music in 1970s Animated Christmas Movies
- 7 Conclusion
- 8 FAQ
Introduction
Animated Christmas Movies 1970s: The 1970s was a decade of great change and progress in the world of animation. From the classic Rankin/Bass stop-motion specials to the first computer-animated feature film, the 1970s saw a huge leap forward in the art of animation. One of the most beloved genres of animation during this time was the animated Christmas movie. These films were often filled with heartwarming stories, memorable characters, and catchy songs that have become holiday staples. From the classic Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer to the more modern Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town, the 1970s saw a wide variety of animated Christmas movies that have become beloved by generations of viewers.

Ranking the Best Animated Christmas Movies of the 1970s
1. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965) This classic animated Christmas movie from 1965 follows the beloved Peanuts gang as they search for the true meaning of Christmas. Charlie Brown is determined to find a Christmas tree for the gang, but when he finds a scrawny little tree, he is ridiculed by his friends. With the help of Linus, Charlie Brown learns the true meaning of Christmas and the importance of friendship. 2. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964) This beloved Christmas movie from 1964 follows the story of Rudolph, a young reindeer who is born with a glowing red nose. He is ridiculed by the other reindeer, but eventually finds acceptance when he is chosen to lead Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve. Along the way, Rudolph meets a variety of characters, including the Abominable Snowman, the Misfit Toys, and the Island of Misfit Toys. 3. Frosty the Snowman (1969) This classic animated Christmas movie from 1969 follows the story of Frosty, a snowman who comes to life after being brought to life by a magical hat. He quickly befriends a group of children and embarks on a journey to the North Pole to find a way to stay alive forever. Along the way, Frosty and his friends must outwit the evil Professor Hinkle and his snowman-hating plans. 4. Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town (1970) This classic animated Christmas movie from 1970 follows the story of Kris Kringle, a young orphan who is determined to bring joy to the world. He is aided by a group of elves, who help him deliver presents to children all over the world. Along the way, Kris must outwit the evil Burgermeister Meisterburger, who is determined to stop him from delivering presents. 5. The Year Without a Santa Claus (1974) This classic animated Christmas movie from 1974 follows the story of Santa Claus, who is feeling a bit down and decides to take a year off from delivering presents. Mrs. Claus and the elves must find a way to convince Santa to come back and save Christmas. Along the way, they must outwit the evil Heat Miser and Snow Miser, who are determined to keep Santa away.
Exploring the Cultural Impact of 1970s Animated Christmas Movies
The 1970s saw a surge in the production of animated Christmas movies, which had a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of the era. These films, which often featured beloved characters from popular television shows, were beloved by children and adults alike. They provided a much-needed escape from the realities of the decade, and their messages of hope and joy resonated with viewers. The most iconic of these films was the 1974 classic, “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” This movie, which featured the voice of Burl Ives as the narrator, told the story of a young reindeer who was ostracized by his peers due to his bright red nose. Despite the ridicule, Rudolph eventually finds acceptance and is able to use his unique trait to save Christmas. The film’s message of acceptance and perseverance resonated with viewers, and it quickly became a holiday classic. Another popular animated Christmas movie from the 1970s was “Frosty the Snowman.” This film, which featured the voice of Jimmy Durante as the narrator, told the story of a snowman who comes to life and embarks on a magical journey. The film’s message of friendship and adventure was embraced by viewers, and it quickly became a beloved holiday tradition. The 1970s also saw the release of “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town.” This movie, which featured the voice of Fred Astaire as the narrator, told the story of a young orphan who helps Santa Claus deliver presents to children around the world. The film’s message of kindness and generosity was embraced by viewers, and it quickly became a beloved holiday tradition. The 1970s animated Christmas movies had a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of the era. These films provided a much-needed escape from the realities of the decade, and their messages of hope and joy resonated with viewers. They also helped to shape the way that Christmas is celebrated today, and their influence can still be seen in the holiday films of today.
A Look at the Animation Techniques Used in 1970s Animated Christmas Movies
The 1970s saw a surge in the production of animated Christmas movies, with many of them becoming beloved holiday classics. These films used a variety of animation techniques to bring their stories to life. Here, we will take a look at some of the most common animation techniques used in 1970s animated Christmas movies. One of the most popular animation techniques used in 1970s animated Christmas movies was cel animation. This technique involves drawing characters and backgrounds on transparent sheets of celluloid, which are then photographed one frame at a time. This method was used in films such as “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town”. Stop-motion animation was also used in many 1970s animated Christmas movies. This technique involves taking a series of photographs of a model or puppet, which is then moved slightly between each shot. This method was used in films such as “The Year Without a Santa Claus” and “Rudolph’s Shiny New Year”. Another popular animation technique used in 1970s animated Christmas movies was rotoscoping. This technique involves tracing over live-action footage frame by frame to create a more realistic animation. This method was used in films such as “Frosty the Snowman” and “The Little Drummer Boy”. Finally, some 1970s animated Christmas movies used a combination of techniques. For example, “A Charlie Brown Christmas” used a combination of cel animation and stop-motion animation. Overall, the 1970s saw a variety of animation techniques used in animated Christmas movies. From cel animation to stop-motion animation to rotoscoping, these films used a variety of techniques to bring their stories to life. As a result, these films have become beloved holiday classics.

How 1970s Animated Christmas Movies Reflected the Decade’s Social Issues
The 1970s was a decade of immense social change, and this was reflected in the animated Christmas movies of the era. These films often featured themes of family, friendship, and the importance of community, while also exploring issues such as poverty, racism, and environmentalism. One of the most iconic animated Christmas movies of the 1970s was “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” (1964). This film explored themes of acceptance and belonging, as Rudolph was ostracized by his peers for his physical difference. The movie also touched on the issue of poverty, as Rudolph’s father, Santa Claus, was struggling to make ends meet. Another popular animated Christmas movie of the 1970s was “Frosty the Snowman” (1969). This film addressed the issue of environmentalism, as Frosty was threatened by the destruction of his home due to the encroaching development of the town. The movie also explored themes of friendship and loyalty, as Frosty and his friends worked together to save his home. The 1970s also saw the release of “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” (1970). This movie addressed the issue of racism, as the villain, Burgermeister Meisterburger, attempted to ban Christmas due to his prejudice against the holiday. The movie also explored themes of family and community, as Santa Claus and his friends worked together to bring Christmas back to the town. Finally, “The Year Without a Santa Claus” (1974) addressed the issue of poverty, as Santa Claus was struggling to make ends meet due to the lack of Christmas spirit in the world. The movie also explored themes of friendship and loyalty, as Santa’s friends worked together to help him find the Christmas spirit. Overall, the animated Christmas movies of the 1970s reflected the social issues of the decade. These films explored themes of family, friendship, and the importance of community, while also addressing issues such as poverty, racism, and environmentalism. As such, these movies remain timeless classics that continue to resonate with viewers today.
A Comparison of the Music in 1970s Animated Christmas Movies
The 1970s saw a surge in the production of animated Christmas movies, with many of these films becoming beloved holiday classics. While the stories and characters of these movies are widely known, the music featured in them is often overlooked. However, the music of these films is an integral part of the viewing experience, and a comparison of the music in 1970s animated Christmas movies reveals a variety of styles and influences. The music of 1970s animated Christmas movies was often heavily influenced by traditional Christmas carols and hymns. For example, the soundtrack of the 1974 classic “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” features a number of traditional carols, such as “O Come All Ye Faithful” and “Silent Night.” Similarly, the 1977 film “The Hobbit” features a number of traditional hymns, such as “O Little Town of Bethlehem” and “Joy to the World.” In addition to traditional Christmas music, the soundtracks of 1970s animated Christmas movies often featured original compositions. For instance, the soundtrack of the 1975 film “The Year Without a Santa Claus” includes the original song “Heat Miser,” which has become a holiday classic in its own right. Similarly, the soundtrack of the 1977 film “Rudolph and Frosty’s Christmas in July” includes the original song “We’re a Couple of Misfits,” which has become a beloved holiday anthem. Finally, the soundtracks of 1970s animated Christmas movies often featured popular music of the era. For example, the soundtrack of the 1977 film “Rudolph’s Shiny New Year” includes the popular song “Happy New Year” by ABBA. Similarly, the soundtrack of the 1979 film “The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus” includes the popular song “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town” by Bruce Springsteen. In conclusion, the music of 1970s animated Christmas movies was varied and eclectic, featuring traditional carols and hymns, original compositions, and popular music of the era. This variety of musical styles and influences helped to create the unique soundtracks that have become beloved holiday classics.
Conclusion
Animated Christmas Movies 1970s: The 1970s saw a surge in animated Christmas movies, with many beloved classics being released during this decade. From the classic Rankin/Bass productions to the more modern Disney films, these movies have become a staple of the holiday season. They have provided generations of viewers with a unique and entertaining way to celebrate the season. Whether it’s a classic like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer or a more modern favorite like The Polar Express, these movies have become a part of the holiday tradition.
FAQ
1.What animated Christmas movie was released in the 1970s and features a miserly character named Scrooge?
“A Christmas Carol” (1971) is an animated movie that features the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man who learns the true meaning of Christmas after being visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come.
2.What animated Christmas movie from the 1970s features the voices of Boris Karloff and Thurl Ravenscroft?
“Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” (1966) is an animated TV special that was re-released in theaters in the 1970s. It features the voice talents of Boris Karloff, who narrates the story, and Thurl Ravenscroft, who sings the famous song “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch.”
3.What animated Christmas movie from the 1970s is based on a book by Chris Van Allsburg and features the voice of Tom Hanks?
“The Polar Express” (2004) is a computer-animated movie that is based on the book by Chris Van Allsburg. While it was released in 2004, the story and style of animation pay homage to the classic Christmas movies of the 1970s. The movie features the voice talents of Tom Hanks, who plays multiple roles including the conductor of the Polar Express train.