One Magic Christmas is a 1985 fantasy movie directed by Phillip Borsos and stars Mary Steenburgen as Ginny Grainger, Gary Basaraba as Jack Grainger, Harry Dean Stanton as Gideon, and Elizabeth Harnois as Abbie Grainger. The movie is set during Christmas time, but Ginny is not in the holiday mood due to her financial struggles and her husband Jack's joblessness. She is cynical about the holiday season, feeling that Christmas is all about commercialism and hype.
Ginny's six-year-old daughter Abbie is full of Christmas spirit and endlessly excited for the holiday's arrival. She writes to Santa Claus and prays for her dad to find a job, but Ginny discourages her seemingly unrealistic faith. One day, while Ginny is working at the local supermarket, a bank robber walks in and shoots her. Gideon, an angel, shows up and takes Ginny through time and space to make her realize how precious life is, and teaches about the true meaning of Christmas.
Ginny wakes up in the hospital, feeling as though she has left her old life behind. She becomes determined to change her cynical ways and actively participate in the holiday spirit. Abbie is overjoyed to see her mother's transformation, and the two of them celebrate Christmas together with Gideon in tow. There's magic in the air, and Ginny is grateful for the gift of Christmas despite all her troubles.
The movie was not initially well-received, although it has since amassed a small cult following. It is known for its emotional themes, music, and a magical story that reminds viewers about the importance of faith, love, and family during the holiday season.