Event Film and Video Screenings "A Christmas Story" (MGM, 1983)

Humorist Jean Shepherd narrates this memoir of growing up in Hammond, Indiana, during the 1940s when his greatest ambition was to receive a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. The film is based in part on Shepherd's 1966 compilation of short stories titled "In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash," which originated on his radio and television programs. Writer-director Bob Clark had long dreamed of making a movie based on Shepherd's work and his reverence for the material shows through as detail after nostalgic detail rings true with period flavor. Dozens of small but expertly realized moments reflect an astute understanding of human nature. Peter Billingsley - with his cherubic cheeks, oversized glasses and giddy grin - portrays Shepherd as a boy. Darren McGavin and Melinda Dillon are his harried-yet-lovable parents. “A Christmas Story” was added to the National Film Registry in 2012. Rated PG. 35mm archival film print, 94 min.  

Programs are free and open to the public, but children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Seating at the screenings is on a first-come, first-served basis unless otherwise noted. Short films may be shown before some features.

For general Packard Campus Theater information, call (540) 827-1079 ext. 79994 or (202) 707-9994.