Benji's Very Own Christmas Story (1978) {Blu-ray Review}

Reviewed By Jason Lockard

Mill Creek Entertainment has been releasing the classic films of one of the most beloved animal actors of all time Benji on HD. Previous releases Benji the original film, and For the Love of Benji have already got their Blu-ray treatment. Now it is time for Benji's Christmas Special to get the Blu-ray treatment on a Blu-ray, DVD and digital combo pack.

On December 7th 1978 ABC broadcast an adventure featuring Hollywood most lovable little pooch Benji. The short film was written by Joe Camp and Dan Witt and directed by Joe Camp. So it is fitting that as we come upon the 40th anniversary it would be re-released in HD.

The film follows Patsy Garrett and Cindy Smith who star in the previous Benji films as they are on a promotional tour in Switzerland and are asked to be grand marshals of a Christmas parade. There is huge problem Kris Kringle has a broken leg and has to let his elves deliver the presents. It's up to Patsy Cindy and Benji to convince Kris Kringle that his place on Christmas Eve is delivering presents to the families all over the world.

This is a charming little special, that gives us a peek into a different culture and how they celebrate Christmas. Also the amazing Ron Moody (from the musical Oliver) stars as Kris Kringle and performs a special song. 


This 25 minute special was nominated for an Emmy Award in 1979 for Outstanding Children's Program. Also actress Cynthia Smith was nominated for a Youth in Film Award in 1979 for her performance. 

The film has been transferred and restored from the a 35mm film print. The Blu-ray is in 1080p High Definition (1.85:1) and uncompressed 2.0 stereo sound. There is also English subtitles for the hearing impaired!

This Christmas special has been lovingly and beautifully restored! The colors are vibrant and audio is crisp and clear! The widescreen version of this film is a huge upgrade over the previous releases on DVD that I had which were cropped full screen versions. 

The bonus features in this collection includes; an audio commentary featuring Joe and Brandon Camp, original trailers from this special and the other previous Benji films, as well as Benji Off the Leash. There is also featurettes and an image galleries. 

This is a great little Christmas Blu-ray release loaded with bonus features. The adults may find this one a little below their level, but for me this innocent TV special is made for Christmas and it is a pure piece of family entertainment.

So if your a fan of Benji or classic Christmas specials, I highly recommend this Blu-ray of Benji's Very own Christmas Story. Head over to www.MillCreekEnt.com or your local DVD provider and pick up one today.

Moral Rating: Nothing offensive
Audience: All Ages
Genre: Drama, musical
Total run time: 1 hour 34 Minutes
Blu-ray Release: 2018
Blu-ray Rating: A