Summary

This episode of Talking a Christmas Story with the cast delves into the creation of the iconic leg lamp, told by the original creator, Ruben Fried. The conversation explores how the concept of the leg lamp came about and the inspiration behind its unique design. It also discusses the challenges in constructing the lamp and reveals that multiple leg lamps were made for the film. The episode highlights the collaborative process between Ruben Fried, Bob Clark, and Gene Shepard, and shares fond memories from the set of A Christmas Story. Ruben Fried, the original designer of the iconic leg lamp from 'A Christmas Story,' discusses the history and significance of the lamp. He reveals that most of the leg lamps sold today are not made from his original design. Fried expresses his disappointment in the lack of depth and authenticity in the replicas being sold. He also discusses the cultural and historical context behind the leg lamp, including its connection to wartime pinup culture. Fried shares his vision for creating an authentic replica of the leg lamp and his hope to bring back the emotional connection and warmth that the lamp represents.

Keywords

leg lamp, iconic symbol, creator, design, construction, collaboration, set memories, leg lamp, A Christmas Story, replica, authenticity, design, cultural context, wartime pinup culture, emotional connection

Takeaways

The leg lamp was inspired by an advertising poster for knee-high cola and was designed by Ruben Fried.

Multiple leg lamps were made for the film, with around 10 being created.

The construction of the leg lamp posed challenges due to its fragility.

The collaborative process between Ruben Fried, Bob Clark, and Gene Shepard played a crucial role in bringing the leg lamp to life.

Fond memories from the set include the creative energy and resourcefulness of the art department. Most of the leg lamps sold today are not made from the original design by Ruben Fried.

The replicas lack depth and authenticity, as they are mass-produced in China at cheap prices.

The leg lamp has cultural and historical significance, tied to wartime pinup culture.

Ruben Fried aims to create an authentic replica of the leg lamp to bring back the emotional connection and warmth it represents.

Sound Bites

"Today, we're gonna unravel the true story behind one of the most iconic symbols of our beloved film told by the original creator."

"How did the concept of the leg lamp come to you and what inspired its unique design?"

"The original sketch from the leg lamp was just revealed. And for me, that is just, that is priceless. It's a treasure."

"Most of the leg lamps that we, the Die Hard fans have in our homes were not actually made from the original creator as yourself."

"The lamp that I have in my front window is a monument to mass production and to commerce that basically doesn't understand the meaning of the people."

"The leg lamp was inspired by a real-life beauty contest."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Leg Lamp

05:22 The Inspiration Behind the Leg Lamp

16:12 The Collaborative Process of Designing the Leg Lamp

30:33 Memories and Experiences from the Set of 'A Christmas Story'

33:27 The History and Legacy of the Leg Lamp

35:25 Disappointment with Replicas

37:21 The Deeper Meaning of the Leg Lamp

53:54 Creating Authentic Replicas