Jingle All the Way (1996)

Christmas is just around the corner, and this week on In a World! Films What If Podcast, we’re taking a sleigh ride back to 1996 to revisit the chaotic holiday frenzy of Jingle All the Way. From Arnold Schwarzenegger’s frantic quest for a Turbo Man doll to Sinbad’s over-the-top antics as a bitter mailman, this movie is packed with nostalgia, absurdity, and more than a few questionable moments.

But does it hold up, or is it a stocking full of coal? In this episode, I’ll dive into the film’s wild behind-the-scenes casting ‘what ifs,’ questionable plot choices, and my complicated feelings about this so-called holiday classic. Plus, we’ll take a closer look at the late, great Phil Hartman’s iconic performance as Ted, the sleaziest neighbor of all time.

Whether you love it, hate it, or haven’t seen it in years, this is a holiday episode you won’t want to miss. Tune in now, and let’s talk all things Jingle All the Way!