Too many Christmas episodes just recycle the same sentiments and ideas that we've seen dozens of times before, so it's nice to see Tina Fey change it up a bit with this classic episode of 30 Rock, in which the show's crew is gearing up for their annual so-called "Ludachristmas" celebration, which pesky upstart Kenneth is trying to put a stop to. Kenneth wants to promote the "real" meaning of Christmas, and spends most of the episode riling up Tracy, who has been prohibited from drinking alcohol and therefore can't stand Kenneth's wholesome sentiments. Meanwhile, Liz has to deal with her family (Anita Gillette, Buck Henry, and Andy Richter) showing up for the holidays, while Jack has a surprise visit from his mother Colleen (Elaine Stritch) after initially being relieved that she wouldn't be able to make it. Buck Henry and Andy Richter as Lemon's father and brother respectively are the stand-outs here; it's a feat of casting so perfect it's difficult to imagine anyone else in the role. Meanwhile, Tracy Morgan gets to give some of his best mugging in the entire series, and the characters of Liz and Jack are given some impressive character development. A great episode.
