Hermey the elf, Sam the snowman, Yukon Cornelius, Claurice, the head elf are all Muller's creations. However, the Rankin and Bass Christmas special is based on the Johnny Marks song but other than that, it is all the creation of Romeo Muller. A Max Fleischer cartoon short was made in 1948 with Robert May creating its story. Christmas! The origins of Rudolph the Red Nosed Raindeer stem from the song written by Johnny Marks back in the 1930's or 1940's. It is hard to imagine all these classic specials being the creation of one man. Some of the others are: The Little Drummer Boy (1968), Frosty the Snowman (1969),and Santa Claus is Coming to Town (1970) as well as Here Comes Peter Cottontail (1971) and Puff, The Magic Dragon (1978). Rudolph is the first of a line of Christmas specials that were produced by Rankin and Bass and written by Romeo Muller. It is perhaps second only to The Wizzard of Oz as being the most viewed programme of all time. On the DVD's introduction, producer Arthur Rankin states that Rudolph the Red Nosed Raindeer has been reportedly viewed by over a billion people worldwide. Most children today enjoy watching this as much as their parents did when they were little. This beloved special is one of the few things that brings back my childhood. I always look forward to the special time during the Christmas season when I can watch this. But, then, Rudolph proved that long before I did.ĭirectors: Kizo Nagashima, Larry Roemer Story: Robert May Script: Romeo Muller Producers: Jules Bass, Arthur Rankin Rudolph is more then a Christmas special, it is a holiday tradition. As a successful Senior Librarian today, I'm living proof that outsiders can succeed. But, in deference to your opinion, I see "Rudolph" as a story of how even a perceived outsider can fit in. Finally, a word to Julie Landry, of Orlando, on her review. His sincerity and joviality just naturally make you want to "pull up an ice block and lend an ear." I'm now 41 years old, I know all the dialogue practically by heart, and yet I still watch "Rudolph" practically every Christmas. And holding it all together is Burl Ives' warm, friendly singing and narration. The late Johnny Marks' songs are all winners, and "Rudolph" and "Have a Holly Jolly Christmas" are now firmly established Christmas classics. In terms of Holiday atmosphere, it can't be beat. I've seen and loved all of the great Rankin/Bass Christmas shows, and I have most of them on video, but this first one, "Rudolph," is still the best, and still the one that holds the warmest memories for me.