I admittedly am not familiar with Red Skelton as much as others are, but of the stuff I have seen him in he comes across as very likable. And he certainly does here, he manages to be very charming and funny as well as instantly lovable. His miming scene is definitely a highlight. And he is brilliantly supported by the ever commanding Vincent Price, and both are further aided by their likable characters. The film looks good, and the songs are sweet, memorable and catchy. The gags are clean and fun, and the story is always interesting with its fair share of amusing and heartwarming moments. While it is relatively short, it doesn't feel over-extended or scant.All in all, a piece of escapist fun that will charm and warm your heart. 10/10 Bethany Cox

I wish I knew where I could buy this, if anyone has a heads up, let me know please!!!!!! I watched this series for several years until they quit showing it. It delivers a very sweet message as it is what the time of year means.My hat's off the the folks that produced the show!Legends of this king we only see once in a life time. I wish the sureness of vulgar language would notice that Red's stuff was just plain funny, without any offbeat vulgar humor. The big ones from that era, Jackie Gleason, Art Carne Sid Ceaser et,al are now gone. Their lives on and some of us would still like to enjoy it

this TV special was shown on HBO back when it came out in 1981. i was 7 and i loved watching it every year after that. i hadn't seen it for years up until a few years ago. i found it on VHS and snatched it up. i now watch it every Christmas and it's just as wonderful as ever. Red Skeleton was an original. his songs and gags in this special are clean and timeless. if you know anything about his "freddy the freeloader" character then you'll love this. even if you know nothing about Skeleton or his "freddy" character your in for a treat. his clean humor is great for the kids also, no matter how young. the songs and guest appearances add to the holiday fun. if you come upon this on VHS or DVD pick it up. Red Skeleton will win you over.

I throughly enjoyed watching Freddy the Freeloader's Christmas Dinner. I try and watch it every holiday season. I find that the part where Red Skelton does a mime of sewing a button is very good!! I've always enjoyed Red Skelton. I could actually see the button, needle and thread. I also enjoyed the part where Freddy meets up with the drunk Santa Claus played very well by Patrick Duffy. It's a feel good movie for the holiday season. I would recommend it to anyone who loves Red Skelton. All in all, I would have to say that it's a very good movie that I enjoy watching at least once during the Christmas season. It also reminds me of when I used to watch the Red Skelton show on TV when I was much younger.