By Mia Cerrato – Entertainment Editor

The 2004 film “The Polar Express” is a holiday classic inspired by the 1985 children’s book of the same name that anyone can enjoy.

The story follows a boy named Chris, or “Hero Boy,” on Christmas Eve, as he spots a train on the route to the North Pole outside his window. A conductor steps out of the train and waves from him to come outside. He tells Chris the train is headed towards the North Pole. He accepts the invite, despite his skepticism of Santa and his workshop. Chris finds himself aboard the train with other kids. They soon become friends and venture on a journey to meet Santa and watch the preparation for Christmas.

“The Polar Express” is a family- friendly movie that tells a story that praises childhood curiosity and celebrates imagination. The look of the movie portrays this through the cross between live action and artwork. It makes the film catch people’s eyes and make each scene feel life-like. A scene that is truly memorable is the train emerging from in front of Chris. The way the snow falls and the lights from the train shine is captivating. Another scene that is unforgettable is when hot chocolate is served on the trail. The waiters serve it along with an acrobatic song and dance. 

However, this Christmas movie is not everyone’s taste. The life-like animation can be eerie and creepy. It has such a heartwarming message yet the animation seems a little cold and mysterious. One scene/character that just seems very cryptic is the hobo that lives on top of the Polar Express. He rides it whenever he wants for free. He doesn’t believe in Santa Claus or Christmas and always tells Chris his negative opinions on the holidays. Chris is the only one who can see him throughout the whole movie. 

“The Polar Express” is a film that is perfect for the holiday season and shows the joy of Christmas.