I decided to rank my all-time favourite Christmas films because it’s finally that time of year again (when it’s actually socially acceptable to watch them). There are so many that didn’t make this list, which makes me incredibly sad because I love them all. These are just the ones I watch every year without fail!
A little disclaimer before we start, because I’m bound to get yelled at for this extremely controversial list – No, I have never seen The Muppets Christmas Carol, okay? Glad we’ve cleared that up.
10. Nativity! – I didn’t realise how much I needed to see Martin Freeman dressed as an elf before watching this film. SPARKLE AND SHINE? A certified BOP.
9. The Nightmare Before Christmas – Could also be classed as a Halloween movie, so it’s basically the perfect crossover. It’s simultaneously dark and heart-warming, and the visuals are just gorgeous.
8. Miracle on 34th St (1994) – Anything with Mara Wilson in it just gives me cosy childhood vibes, honestly. I’ve only ever seen this version, which is problematic, but it’s super uplifting and one I always re-watch.
7. The Polar Express – This was the first film I ever saw in the cinema when I was 5 years old, so I’m emotionally attached and will continue to defend it, because it’s severely underrated. Has some absolute bangers, and any character voiced by Tom Hanks is an immediate win.
6. Elf – If you haven’t seen this film then you’re basically a grinch. Yes, it’s massively overplayed, but it makes me happy and always puts me in the festive mood. Buddy is too pure and innocent for this world.
5. Christmas with the Kranks – We all know a couple like the Kranks at Christmas, where one person goes all out and the other doesn’t really care that much. Nora’s enthusiasm and stress is quite a rollercoaster, but it has a wholesome meaning about family and community, which I love.
4. Love, Actually – This is the film version of the song ‘All I Want for Christmas’, because damn is it overplayed. But iconic cast alert?! All absolute legends and yes, I cry for Emma Thompson’s character every single time.
3. Home Alone – All the films are great, but the first and second are probably my favourites. This will never get old. It’s funny, nostalgic, and an absolute Christmas CLASSIC.
2. It’s a Wonderful Life – This one makes me emotional. It’s definitely more of a heavy watch due to having more serious themes, BUT it’s so heart-warming and always makes me appreciate this time of year so much more.
1.The Holiday – The Holiday is the best Christmas film of all time. In this essay I will… Seriously, I will NEVER tire of this. The cast? Incredible. The soundtrack? Sensational. The story? BEAUTIFUL. We all know Jude Law and Cameron Diaz are the main duo, right? The storyline with Arthur is adorable, and don’t get me started on the three musketeers scene. I cannot fault it, and I just want Jude Law to know that I am free on Thursdays.