30 Feminist Christmas Movies, Ranked

Frosty the Snowman, Image via Rankin/Bass Productions

Frosty the Snowman

When Professor Hinkle, a disgruntled magician, performs for a group of children near Christmastime, they are generally unimpressed. But later, at recess, they find Hinkle’s hat and use it as an accessory for the snowman they built. Miraculously, the snowman, who they name Frosty, comes to life because of the magic in the hat. Frosty is a delightful friend, especially to one little girl, Karen. But as warmer weather encroaches, Frosty is in danger of melting. Karen must get him to the North Pole so that he won’t melt, all while dodging Hinkle, who wants his hat back.

The Good

• I have to give Frosty props here for making this story about a little girl. After researching all these movies and realizing how almost all the kids in these Christmas movies are boys, it’s a treat to be able to follow Karen and her snowman friend.
• Karen’s characterization is also positive. She is portrayed as brave and adventurous, being up for the adventure of getting Frosty to the North Pole.

The Bad

• The above being said, Karen is essentially the only girl. She doesn’t have a female friend to talk to, let alone about something besides a man. This is how Frosty fails the Bechdel test.

The Ugly

• Karen ultimately has to be saved by a man. While she is trying to save Frosty, Frosty realizes that she is getting too cold and arranges to call for Santa to bring her back home. Later he puts her in a greenhouse to make her warm, and Santa comes to save the day while she is crying over Frosty being melted. She is an adventurous little girl, but ultimately the men in the story take over Karen’s decisions.