The Movie: Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
The Santa: Edmund Gwenn's performance as Kriss Kringle in this 1947 classic is the archetypal Saint Nick: fluffy beard, rosy cheeks, and twinkly eyes. Hired by Macy's, this Santa quietly brings people together, lifts their spirits, and improves their lives. He's so convincing that the crusty department-store kingpin R.H. Macy (Harry Antrim) willingly testifies in court that Kringle is the real McCoy. "I believe, I believe. It's silly, but I believe," declares little Susie (a 9-year-old Natalie Wood). By the end of the movie, who wouldn't agree?

Miracle on 34th Street, Edmund Gwenn, 1947. Photo Courtesy of the Everett Collection.