" Filmed in 1976 and released in 1978, this now-overlooked and forgotten TV movie was based on an outstanding novel named The Melodeon by Glendon Swarthout.
Rural Minnesota during the Great Depression is the setting for this haunting tale of a miracle on Christmas Eve 1939. While a fierce blizzard rages, a 13 year-old boy, his curmudgeonly grandfather, loving neighbours and a mysterious night visitor work together and a marvellous gift is given.
A good cast includes Jason Robards and Eva Marie Saint as the Larsons with Joanne Woodward making a cameo early on as Rusty's mother. Apologies for the poorer quality after the 14 minute mark. This was never released on DVD and this Christmas 1996 TV broadcast was the last time it was shown in Australia. It is typical of the VHS recordings that have kept this forgotten gem alive in the hearts of its small cult following. "
