magnifying glass search icon
Poster of Star in the Night

Star in the Night (1945)

Where to Watch in United States

Subscription

Where to Watch in United States

Subscription

Plot

On a Christmas Eve steeped in lonely darkness, the barren desert landscape of the US southwest is pierced by the unexpected kindness of three cowboys. Laden with Christmas presents purchased from a local store, with no recipients in mind, they embark on a night journey spurred by a mysterious, flashing star. Their path leads them to the Star Auto Court, a business freshly adorned with a second-hand celestial sign by its proprietor, the gruff and cynical Nick Catapoli. Nick's world is devoid of Christmas spirit. His customers, ensnared by the lack of alternative lodging, bear the brunt of his disillusionment with the world. His wife, Rosa, however, radiates warmth, serving each customer with a genuine smile and a tender heart. As Nick grapples with the trials of the season, he grudgingly refuses shelter to a drifter seeking respite from the cold, despite the drifter's attempts to impart the true meaning of Christmas on him. The stage for a transformative encounter is set when a young couple, José and Maria Santos, arrive in distress. With no rooms left, the inn can only offer a humble shed as their refuge. As the auto court's inhabitants discover Maria's precarious condition, an unexpected tableau of humanity unfolds. Echoing the timeless narratives of the Nativity and "A Christmas Carol," Star in the Night weaves a tale of rediscovery of goodness in the world. It is a story that illuminates the power of compassion, showing a hardened man that the spirit of Christmas isn't confined to a single day, but rather, it’s the enduring light that can guide us through our darkest nights.

Where to watch Star in the Night?

Star in the Night is a drama movie featuring J. Carrol Naish.

Star in the Night is currently streaming on TCM.