Only Charlie Brown is lonelier than CC Baxter at Christmas. I’m not sure if this is a “Christmas movie”
per se, but like When Harry Met Sally it’s essential that it takes place during the holidays.
If ever there was a film that showed the seductive nature of the mid-century white collar world - it’s The Apartment, and like Mad Men - it’s spiritual sequel, it leans heavily into its dark side.
Anita Hill and Me Too and Human Resources long out an end to the dynamics that allowed for Miss Kubilek and Mr. Sheldrake’s relationship. You’d be hard pressed to find people at any office on Christmas Eve today, let alone a raucous party.
Yet I don’t think all that much has changed in terms of power and people who take and get took. The dignity in opting out of a corrupt system - particularly for love - provides this film’s power.
I suppose love over materialism and base desires is not a bad message to hear this time of year…