To John’s last point, watch this scene from “The Wrestler,” which hit theaters today in 2008. It’s heartbreaking at how embarrassed each character is of themselves and it’s also uplifting in that both of them have chosen to soldier on rather than give in. Which was ultimately the theme of the whole movie. And of course, that scene led to this scene, which was just a tiny piece of awesome. It didn’t get up for Best Picture, but “The Reader” did.

Tonight in 1989 FOX debuted, “The Simpsons.” The first episode was called, “Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire” and received two Emmy nominations. It’s the longest running sitcom in TV history.

50 million people tuned into “The Tonight Show” tonight in 1969, the most to date, to watch Tiny Tim get married to Miss Vickie.

Today in 1971, “A Clockwork Orange” hit movie screens. It was weird.

Today in 1777, France officially recognized the United States. I’m not sure they still do.

This scene may look like the start of this year’s Scientology Christmas party, but it’s actually from “Magnolia,” which came out today in 1999.

“Tootsie” came out today in 1982 and would probably hold the crown for best December 17th release ever, if it wasn’t for this coming out in 2003:

— Bill Hubbell