The beloved film The Polar Express is implicitly set in 1957. While the exact year isn't explicitly stated in the movie, a key detail provides a strong clue to its specific timeline.
Deciphering the Film's Setting
The narrative of The Polar Express unfolds on Christmas Eve, a magical night for the Hero Boy and his newfound friends. To pinpoint the year, viewers can look for subtle background elements that ground the story in a particular era.
The Key Clue: A Period Magazine
A significant piece of evidence that helps establish the film's setting is a particular item visible in the Hero Boy's possession. He is seen with a copy of the Saturday Evening Post magazine.
Key Evidence for the Year:
- Magazine Title: Saturday Evening Post
- Magazine Date: December 29, 1956
- Event Timeline: The events of The Polar Express occur on Christmas Eve.
Since Christmas Eve precedes December 29th, the Christmas Eve depicted in the film must have taken place after the magazine's publication date. Therefore, the earliest possible year for the film's events, given a December 29, 1956, magazine, would be Christmas Eve of 1957. This detail effectively situates the fantastical journey in the mid-20th century, adding a touch of nostalgic realism to its enchanting world.
