It’s that time of the year when people go crazy for peppermint and the temperature is twenty degrees below freezing, making the atmosphere jolly and festive–just in time for Christmas. Nothing says Christmas better than snuggling in a blanket, sipping on hot chocolate, and watching a nice movie to celebrate with close family and friends. Here are some nice Christmas-y movies to watch this year.
- Elf (2003)
- If you’re in the mood for a good life, Will Pharrell’s role in Elf is always the number one choice. The movie focuses on Pharrell’s character, Buddy, who is an adult man that was raised in the North Pole with Santa’s elves. Feeling ostracized from the others, he travels to New York City where he searches for his birth father. Shenanigans ensue, making a hilarious 90 minute film to keep everyone entertained.
- How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
- Speaking of comedians, Jim Carrey is another well known actor who took a critical role from a beloved Dr. Seuss book, How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Taking place in a fictional town ‘Whoville’, Carrey’s character, The Grinch, makes it his sole goal to ruin Christmas for all of Whoville by stealing all decor, presents, and ruining parties until an energetic young girl changes his perspective. If Jim Carrey’s acting isn’t enough to persuade a viewer in their seats then young Taylor Momsen’s work as Cindy Lou will.
- Polar Express (2004)
- If nostalgia is something you’re craving, Polar Express would ignite the childlike joy in you. Reminiscing back to elementary school on the last day before winter break where you’d get sweet treats and hot chocolate, Polar Express’s mesmerizing tale of a magical train that takes children to the North Pole to meet Santa sparks the innocent joy of the spirit of Christmas.
- Home Alone (1990)
- Home Alone’s silly premise may come off as unrealistic and maybe a bit neglectful on the parent’s behalf, but ignoring the morbid implications the old classic film has been favored among many for the over the top mischievous tasks Macaulay Culkin’s character, Kevin, along with the robbers makes it enjoyable for not just children but adults too.
- Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
- Although a ‘controversial’ addition, The Nightmare Before Christmas is by all technicalities a Christmas movie and a Halloween movie. Afterall, Christmas is in the name. The beautiful stop-motion film incorporates the themes of the spirit of Christmas and how Jack Skellington wants to break free to take over the Christmas town–whether viewers agree or not, the movie’s soundtrack makes the watching experience all the more immersive.
These aren’t the ‘top’ choices that all people should watch for Christmas, although it does have many popular and beloved films that some may hold to a higher torch. Christmas is best spent with the people you love and cherish, and as long as everybody is enjoying themselves–any movie is the best movie.
