"Miracle on 34th Street" charmingly portrays the struggles of six-year-old Susan Walker, who finds herself caught between the innocence of childhood and the harsh realities of adulthood. Portrayed by the talented Mara Wilson, Susan grapples with doubts about Santa Claus, a beloved figure that embodies the magic of the holiday season. Her mother, having revealed the truth about Santa long ago, has prepared Susan for a world where childhood fantasies are often dismissed as mere fantasies. However, this once unyielding skepticism is about to be challenged in a most enchanting way.
When Susan encounters a unique department store Santa, played by the renowned Richard Attenborough, her life takes an unexpected turn. This Santa isn't just any man in a red suit; he genuinely believes he is the real Kris Kringle, and his infectious spirit and unwavering belief in the magic of Christmas gradually start to resonate with Susan. As they bond, Susan begins to see the world through new eyes, where wonder and joy still hold a place in her heart. The film captures the essence of childhood's innocence and the struggle to maintain belief amidst life's realities, making it a heartfelt exploration of hope.
Through Susan’s journey, "Miracle on 34th Street" beautifully reminds viewers of the precious gift of belief. The interaction between Susan and Kris Kringle serves as a catalyst for her transformation, illustrating the power of friendship and imagination. The movie's enchanting narrative encourages audiences of all ages to embrace the spirit of the holidays and the importance of believing in the extraordinary. Ultimately, this timeless tale delivers a profound message about faith, love, and the magic that can exist when we open our hearts to the possibilities around us.
Main Cast of Miracle on 34th Street
Mara Wilson
Susan Walker
Mara Wilson delivers a memorable performance as the precocious and pragmatic Susan Walker in the 1994 holiday classic "Miracle on 34th Street." As the young girl who doubts the existence of Santa Claus, Wilson captures the essence of childhood skepticism with her nuanced portrayal, offering a perfect counterbalance to the film's magic and wonder. Her interactions with Richard Attenborough's Kris Kringle are particularly poignant, showcasing her ability to convey a complex mix of curiosity, budding belief, and the eventual warmth of a child's heart won over by the spirit of Christmas. Wilson's performance is both grounded and whimsical, providing the film with an authentic emotional core that resonates with audiences of all ages. Her portrayal of Susan's transformation from a non-believer to a true embracer of the holiday spirit is handled with delicate charm and sincerity, making her an integral part of this timeless tale's enduring appeal.
Richard Attenborough
Kris Kringle
Richard Attenborough delivered a memorable and heartwarming performance as Kris Kringle in the 1994 holiday classic "Miracle on 34th Street." Attenborough brought a genuine warmth and kindness to the role, perfectly embodying the spirit of Santa Claus with his twinkling eyes and reassuring demeanor. His portrayal of Kringle, who claims to be the real Santa, is both convincing and enchanting, as he interacts with children and adults alike, spreading Christmas cheer and teaching everyone the value of belief and imagination. Attenborough's Kris Kringle is a beacon of hope and goodwill, standing in stark contrast to the commercialism of the modern world, as depicted in the film. His performance resonates with audiences of all ages, reminding us of the magic of Christmas and the power of faith in the face of skepticism. With his nuanced acting and profound emotional depth, Attenborough's Kris Kringle is the cornerstone of this beloved film, and his portrayal remains a cherished embodiment of the holiday spirit.
Dylan McDermott
Bryan Bedford
Dylan McDermott delivers a nuanced performance as Bryan Bedford in the 1994 holiday classic "Miracle on 34th Street." As the charming and idealistic lawyer who represents Kris Kringle in his quest to prove his identity as the real Santa Claus, McDermott brings a blend of warmth, skepticism, and eventual belief that perfectly encapsulates the film's themes of faith, hope, and the magic of Christmas. His character's arc from a corporate attorney focused on practicalities to a true believer in the spirit of the holiday is both convincing and heartwarming. McDermott's portrayal of Bedford is a highlight of the film, providing a solid foundation for the audience's emotional journey alongside young Susan Walker, played by Mara Wilson, and the delightful Richard Attenborough as Kris Kringle. His performance is a testament to his ability to balance drama with a light touch of humor, making Bryan Bedford an endearing character that resonates with viewers looking for a touch of holiday magic.
Elizabeth Perkins
Dorey Walker
Elizabeth Perkins delivers a heartwarming performance as Dorey Walker, the pragmatic and career-driven events director at Cole's department store in the beloved holiday classic "Miracle on 34th Street." Her character is initially focused on the bottom line and skeptical of the magical and the mysterious, particularly when it comes to the store's Santa Claus, who claims to be the real Kris Kringle. Perkins brings a nuanced portrayal to the screen, balancing Dorey's no-nonsense demeanor with an underlying current of warmth and vulnerability. As the story unfolds, Perkins skillfully navigates Dorey's transformation from a non-believer to someone who embraces the spirit of Christmas and the power of belief. Her interactions with Mara Wilson's character, Susan, and Richard Attenborough's Kris Kringle are particularly poignant, showcasing Perkins' ability to convey depth and growth in her character. Perkins' performance is a standout, as she embodies the essence of the holiday season—the joy of love, family, and the miraculous—leaving an indelible mark on the film and contributing to its enduring charm as a Christmas favorite.
Crew of Miracle on 34th Street
Full backstage crew list →