A Christmas Story (1983)

Kernel Score: 82% · 1,389 TMDB ratings · Rated PG

Genres: Comedy, Family

Released: 1983-11-18

Runtime: 93 minutes

Where to watch A Christmas Story

  • Stream: TNT, TBS, tru TV, HBO Max
  • Free with ads: Xumo Play
  • Rent: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
  • Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube

US availability, updated 2026-11-11.

Overview

The comic mishaps and adventures of a young boy named Ralph, trying to convince his parents, teachers, and Santa that a Red Ryder B.B. gun really is the perfect Christmas gift for the 1940s.

A Christmas Story parents' guide: all ages

Parents need to know that A Christmas Story is a beloved PG family comedy about a boy's Christmas wish.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official PG rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

Movies like A Christmas Story

If you liked A Christmas Story, these are the movies we'd watch next.

Director

Bob Clark

Cast

  • Melinda Dillon as Mother
  • Darren McGavin as The Old Man
  • Peter Billingsley as Ralphie
  • Jean Shepherd as Ralphie as an Adult (voice)
  • Ian Petrella as Randy
  • Scott Schwartz as Flick
  • R.D. Robb as Schwartz
  • Tedde Moore as Miss Shields
  • Yano Anaya as Grover Dill
  • Zack Ward as Scut Farkus

A Christmas Story FAQ

Is A Christmas Story good?

A Christmas Story has an 82% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels, our own critic-informed editorial score.

Where can I watch A Christmas Story?

In the US you can stream A Christmas Story on TNT, TBS, tru TV and HBO Max, watch it free with ads on Xumo Play and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.

Is A Christmas Story OK for kids?

A Christmas Story is rated PG. Fresh Kernels suggests all ages. Parents need to know that A Christmas Story is a beloved PG family comedy about a boy's Christmas wish.

What movies are like A Christmas Story?

If you liked A Christmas Story, try Merry Christmas, Drake & Josh, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, The Christmas Chronicles and Mickey's Magical Christmas: Snowed in at the House of Mouse.