POLAR EXPRESS (G) Presented in 35mm

The Polar Express - Revival House Perth Event Bio

All aboard for Robert Zemeckis' ambitious 2004 motion-capture spectacle—a film that divided audiences between those enchanted by its magical Christmas journey and those deeply unsettled by its uncanny valley animation. Love it or find it creepy, there's no denying this adaptation of Chris Van Allsburg's beloved book created something visually unique and emotionally resonant.

Tom Hanks voices multiple characters (the Conductor, the boy's father, a hobo, and Santa himself) in the story of a skeptical boy who boards a mysterious train on Christmas Eve bound for the North Pole. As the Polar Express hurtles through snowy landscapes and impossible terrain, the Hero Boy and his fellow passengers experience wonder, danger, and ultimately discover whether they still believe in the magic of Christmas.

Zemeckis uses groundbreaking motion-capture technology to create a storybook world brought to three-dimensional life—the train itself is a marvel of design, all Art Deco elegance and impossible physics. The "hot chocolate" musical number became instantly iconic, while the roller-coaster ride across frozen lakes and down mountain slopes delivers genuine thrills. Alan Silvestri's sweeping score adds emotional weight, and the song "Believe" earned an Oscar nomination.

Yes, the animation has that slightly eerie quality where characters look almost but not quite human. But for many viewers, that dreamlike quality enhances rather than detracts from the story's magic. This is a film about faith, wonder, and holding onto childhood belief—themes that resonate regardless of technical quibbles.

A modern Christmas tradition for families who embrace its unique vision.

Present in authentic 35mm film for the true cinematic experience!

When: Tuesday, December 23rd at 7:00 PM
Where: Revival House Perth
Rating: G - General audiences

Zemeckis' magical journey—a Christmas tale about belief that's either wonderfully enchanting or wonderfully weird, depending on your tolerance for motion-capture.