As Christmas is exactly one month away its time to get your list together with what movies to watch with your hot chocolate in hand and the warm fireplace in front of you. Make sure not to forget your cozy pj’s as well! Here is my personal list:
1. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
This hilarious holiday classic follows the misadventures of the Griswold family as they prepare for the ultimate family Christmas. With unforgettable moments, such as Clark’s unfortunate lighting display and Cousin Eddie’s antics, it perfectly captures the chaos and joy of the holiday season. Nobody can forget this movie and the funny scenes especially when the Uncles jakcet is on fire and his toupe is charred.
2. The Polar Express (2004)
Using cutting-edge animation, “The Polar Express” takes us on a magical train ride to the North Pole with a young boy who is struggling to believe in Santa. This visually stunning film captures the wonder of childhood and the belief in Christmas magic. The Polar express is a great movie where if you have ever seen Fast & Furious: Tokyo Drift, the Locomotive driver does that but in a Train on ice!
3. Fatman (2020)
In a darkly comedic twist on the holiday genre, “Fatman” stars Mel Gibson as Santa, who is struggling to maintain his workshop after being targeted by a hitman hired by a disgruntled child. This unconventional take offers a mix of action and holiday cheer. In a darkly comedic twist on the holiday genre, “Fatman” stars Mel Gibson as Santa Claus, who is struggling to maintain his workshop after being targeted by a hitman hired by a disgruntled child. This unconventional take offers a mix of action and holiday cheer and how Santa Claus has to save Christmas.
4. Violent Night (2022)
In this action-packed holiday film, similar to the movie Fatman, Santa Claus must step up to save Christmas, except this time its when a group of mercenaries takes a wealthy family hostage. Blending humor with thrilling moments, “Violent Night” provides a unique and edgy twist on the Christmas spirit. According to google, “They aren’t prepared for a surprise combatant: Santa Claus is on the grounds, and he’s about to show why this Nick is no saint.”
5. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
This beloved film tells the story of George Bailey, a man who has given up his dreams for the good of his community. On Christmas Eve, he contemplates ending it all, but an angel named Clarence shows him the impact he has made on the lives around him. With its powerful message about the value of life and community, it’s a must-see every holiday.
6. The Grinch (1966 – 2000 – 2018)
Dr. Seuss’s iconic character, The Grinch, attempts to steal Christmas from the Whos of Whoville, only to discover that the holiday spirit goes beyond material possessions. This animated classic teaches us about love, compassion, and the true spirit of giving and the Christmas spirit! This movie has been made throughout the years and its been involved in many childhoods throughout the world from 1966 all the way through to the most recent one made in 2018.
7. Elf (2003)
Starring Will Ferrell as Buddy the Elf, this comedic tale follows the journey of a human raised by elves at the North Pole as he travels to New York City to find his father. Its humor and heartwarming moments make it a modern favorite. I think this movie is down on the list because it is overrated and although Will Ferrell is pretty funny, the movie itself is overplayed similarly to another movie on this list.
8. A Christmas Carol (1951 and 2009)
Based on Charles Dickens’s classic novella, this adaptation follows Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man visited by spirits who reveal the consequences of his actions. The film’s themes of redemption and the importance of generosity resonate throughout the Christmas season. I personally think the 2009 animated movie is a lot better than the 50’s movie.
9. Home Alone (1990)
A holiday staple for families, “Home Alone” brings laughter and heart as young Kevin McCallister accidentally gets left behind while his family goes to Paris for Christmas. His clever traps for two would-be burglars teach us about resilience and the importance of family. This movie is so low on the list due to the fact that this movie is overrated and played way to much during the Christmas season.
10. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
In this animated classic, Charlie Brown struggles to find the true meaning of Christmas amid the commercialism surrounding him. With its simple yet profound message, this film encourages viewers to pause and appreciate the spirit of the holiday and not to take the things in life for granted.
