As we get later into the year and holiday festivities start to occur, an entire genre of movies is unlocked. With so many to sort through, the possibilities of what to watch on a cold night may seem endless, so I’ve narrowed it down for you.Â
- LOVE ACTUALLY
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If you’ve never heard of Love Actually before, I honestly don’t know what to even tell you.
This movie explores numerous intertwined storylines of finding love during the holidays. It highlights the good and the bad, the young and the old, and the ups and downs of each. I love how it shows the different versions of love that can occur and how it can be a connecting force between all. This one is definitely a heartwarmer.Â
- HOLIDATE
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If you’re looking for more of a laugh this holiday season, Holidate is for you. The film follows a man and a woman who pretend to date each other during different holidays to avoid being alone.
Although the timeframe varies across holidays throughout the year, the major events occur in the Christmas and New Year’s season, which is why it’s on this list. I thought it was a perfect blend of comedy and romance, making it a must-watch every year.Â
- ELF
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I mean… come on. It’s a classic. Who doesn’t want to watch a grown man raised by elves navigate the hustle and bustle of New York City? With themes of family, love, and holiday cheer, this film is perfect for all ages. The classic humor and simple storyline have made it a staple Christmas movie.Â
- THE PRINCESS SWITCH
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One, two, and yes, even three.
These movies might be the most controversial on the list, but hopefully you’ll hear me out. The first film follows a young baker, played by Vanessa Hudgens, who has been accepted to compete in a national baking competition at a palace. Here, she finds that the princess, also played by Vanessa Hudgens, looks just like her, so naturally they switch places to see how the other lives. By doing so, they discover love in their own ways.Â
The second and third films follow how their lives change after the switch. They even introduce cousins to the characters, who are again played by Vanessa Hudgens. Although the plots may sound cheesy and basic, I eat them up every time. People have also commented on TikTok about how Vanessa Hudgens creates a different character in every movie, but I see it as the filmmakers playing into the cheese, and it makes me love them even more. If you have an open mind and a big heart, this is for you!
- DASH & LILY
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Okay, I’m sorry this is a mini-series and not a movie, but it’s still worth your time! The series follows a Christmas-hating teenage boy and an optimistic teenage girl through New York. The two converse through a notebook they hide around New York City and use to complete dares.
But don’t just take my word for it, even Rotten Tomatoes gave the show a whopping 100%. This Netflix original highlights how love can be found in unexpected ways and is such a wholesome and cute watch.Â
So, grab your favorite blanket, mugs, stuffed animals, and gal pals to cozy up and watch these holiday classics.
Who knows? Maybe your own holiday romance is right around the corner.
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