The Insects' Christmas

Who knew that Father Christmas was really a magical ornament that hung from the branches of an opulent family tree? It's the dead of night when he comes alive, descends precariously before venturing outside into the snowy wilderness where he sets about setting up a tree for the local creatures. A ladybug is first to arrive to celebrate with him, but soon others are flocking to his side as they enjoy some merriment. There's a lovely scene with these insects engaging in a little stop-motion skiing and skating around on an icy pond and it contrasts nicely with the earlier opening when we witness a young infant snugly snoozing beneath it's own family tree. Perhaps this animation intends to emphasise the differences between the haves and the have-nots, and perhaps that wealth is more than just baubles, but it's message is clearly that for a few moments of one day each year, all creation can unite for a few moments of joy and cameraderie. The detail of movement, especially the beetles, is impressive as is the fluid nature of the storytelling and for a film made in 1913, it's really a thing of beauty.