Philosophy In Film

Author: Chris McTavish, Alain Beauclair and Craig Nickel

A fun and accessible podcast that explores philosophical ideas and themes in popular films. Come join the conversation at "Philosophy in Film"!
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Language: en

Genres: Education, Film Reviews, TV & Film

Contact email: Get it

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Philosophy In Film - 100 - Miracle on 34th Street
Episode 100
Friday, 19 December, 2025

Episode 100: Miracle on 34th Street Ho ho ho! For our 100th episode, the gang celebrates Philosophy in Film's centenary by stepping into the warm glow of a holiday classic with the original Miracle on 34th Street (1947). This timeless courtroom tale explores whether faith, goodwill, and a touch of magic still have a place in a modern, skeptical world. Craig lights the tree with Producer's Notes (11:49), spreading seasonal cheer with stories of reflection and festive mischief. Alain unwraps the story with the Beauclair Synopsis (20:47), laying out the film's gentle clash between legal rationality and childlike wonder as Kris Kringle finds himself on trial for being Santa Claus. Chris then settles into Philosopher's Corner (47:40), reflecting on the divinity of Santa and gods, and how choosing to believe in simple goodness can quietly generate hope without demanding miracles. The gang gathers at the Round Table (59:11) to share memories, arguments, and warm takes on belief and cynicism, before Reviews (1:37:08) and the Mailbag (1:43:12) shed light on our listeners' most hard-hitting questions. As always, we explore the philosophical and non-philosophical heart of the film, reminding ourselves that sometimes the most radical act is simply believing in good. ‼️December 21 @ Metro Cinema‼️ 🌲This Sunday, Philosophy In Film will be at the Metro Cinema for another classic showing! Cozy up with us as we revisit the holiday classic and this week's focus film: Miracle on 34th Street🎄🎄 Details: https://metrocinema.org/event/miracle-on-34th-street-1947/ 🍻 Featured Beer 🍻 - Unplugged Oatmeal Stout by Yukon Brewing (Whitehorse, YT)