During the holiday season, many will find themselves watching classics like “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” or “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town.” Behind these holiday staples was a company that acclaimed director and producer Jules Bass helped create. In memory of Bass, who passed away this October, we’ll look back at some of these famous works this December.

A blonde-haired elf, dressed in blue, happens upon an adorable reindeer. Both of these characters have been outcast, the reindeer for his red nose and the elf for his dream of being a dentist. Quickly, these two “misfits” decide to become friends.

“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” which Jules Bass co-produced, was released in Dec. 1964. The television special follows the titular character, voiced by Billie Mae Richards, as he goes from being an outcast to leading Santa Claus’s sleigh. For me, this stop-motion special is one of the quintessential watches during this festive time of year.

“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” tells the story of Rudolph and the adventure that he follows on his path towards acceptance. Along the way, he meets a number of lovable characters, such as wannabe-dentist elf Hermey, voiced by Paul Soles, and the gold-and-silver-loving human Yukon Cornelius, voiced by Larry Mann.

The special’s plot is phenomenal. From the beautiful moment of Rudolph getting to head Santa’s sleigh at the end to meeting Cornelius, an instant burst of energy, the story possesses a number of stellar and adorable moments. However, my favorite is when, near the end of the special, a changed Bumble gets to place the star at the top of Santa’s Christmas tree.

Without a doubt, the highlight of this special is the wonderful cast of characters. Rudolph, Cornelius and Hermey each have charming, funny and adorable personalities, which make them a joy to watch.

While they are all fantastic as individual characters, the relationship between the members of this group also shines bright. Indeed, with their interactions and especially Rudolph and Hermey’s acceptance of one another, this group gives the special its emotional value.

“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” also features spectacular character designs. From the outfits to their faces and features, the characters possess memorable character designs. Even the iconic Claus himself has a unique appearance, with his small black eyes and incredibly bushy white beard and eyebrows emitting a sense of warmth. However, my personal favorite is that of Bumble, the special’s take on the Yeti, because despite being an antagonist for most of the special, he remains loveable by looking cute and fuzzy.

The special also features some wonderful songs. For me, “Jingle Jingle Jingle” and “We Are Santa’s Elves” are the standout tunes. Both songs feature music and lyrics that are both upbeat and catchy, and I frequently find myself listening to them on my own time. Hermey and Rudolph’s “We’re a Couple of Misfits” is another highlight for its catchiness and positive message.

Overall, “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” makes for a spectacular watch during the holiday season- one which can’t be skipped.