- Home Alone (1990)
One of my all time favourite movies to watch while wrapped up in a blanket and drinking some hot chocolate. Not only is this movie appropriate for all ages, but it gets better every time you watch it! Kevin McCallister is accidentally left home alone after his family flies to Paris without him. Two bumbling burglars, Harry and Marv, attempt to “case the joint” and break into his house, but luckily Kevin has some tricks up his sleeve to thwart their efforts. Not only does he have to face his fear of the basement and the “Wet Bandits”, but also Old Man Marley (the town’s rumored serial killer). It is a touching, hilarious, and heartfelt story that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside.
- Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
This movie can comfortably fit into a Halloween or Christmas list, but definitely deserves a mention. Jack Skellington is the bell of the ball, our main character, who wants nothing more than to continue his reign as the king of Halloween Town. That is, until he discovers Christmas Town and its many wonders. His journey to bring both holidays together sets a course for havoc on the unsuspecting patrons of Christmas Town. Not only is this stop-motion flick spooky, but also funny and has captivating imagery that will keep your interest throughout.
- The Santa Clause (1994)
This film has all the milk and cookies! Cheesy while still being cute, it’s a very magical adventure with even more fantastical characters. When Scott Calvin accidentally kills Santa, he must take his place due to the Santa “clause” that legally binds him to become the new man in the big red suit. Elves, reindeer, and snowflakes galore, what else could you ask for in a holiday movie?
- How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
I know there are cartoon versions of this classic Dr. Seuss story, but how could you not love Jim Carrey’s version of the Grinch? One of the funniest holiday movies out there, I personally can’t let December pass without giving this film a watch. For those of you unfortunate enough to have missed this movie, the plot involves a very bitter, angry, green Grinch who hates Christmas. Through the love of little Cindy Lou Who, the Grinch is able to appreciate that which he previously loathed. 10/10 would recommend if you’re looking for a great comedy.
- Elf (2003)
“Buddy the elf, what’s your favourite colour?” Will Ferrell plays a human who mistakenly climbs into Santa’s sleigh and is taken in by elves. Once he realizes he’s actually adopted, he sets out to find his real father in New York, much to the dismay of his dad Walter. Candy canes and silver lanes, this feel good movie is a classic.
- Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)
Though this is the oldest movie on the list, it still holds up despite its age. Another stop-motion picture, it is a creative spin on this popular tale. Rudolph not only has to face the whole “red nose” conundrum, but somehow gets involved with misfit toys and the abominable snowman.
- Jack Frost (1998)
From my understanding, this movie is not very well known, but I’m not sure why. It’s so touching and sweet, I still get teary eyed when I watch it. When Charlie loses his father Jack in a car accident, he’s in for a big surprise when Jack comes back as a talking snowman. This story covers the 5 stages of grief and how Charlie comes to terms with losing his dad at such a young age. If you want to smile, laugh, and also soak your pillow in tears, this is the holiday film for you.
- Black Christmas (1974)
What holiday list would be complete without a horror movie or two? An escapee from a nearby insane asylum climbs into the attic of a sorority house and camps out. He waits and watches his victims, taunting them with obscene phone calls. The Christmas mood is “killer” as the unsuspecting girls die off one by one without ever realizing the man is in the house. A solid scary movie with a holiday vibe, watch with the lights on!
image sources:
https://media.giphy.com/media/MEtSuIu6qu0HC/giphy.gif
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:The_Nightmare_Before_Christmas_(2944550316).jpg
https://www.dailyedge.ie/the-santa-clause-3731094-Dec2017/
https://media.giphy.com/media/Xzq4zCg9lFDiw/giphy.gif
https://www.flickr.com/photos/travisspencer/8252330825
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hermey_the_elf_and_Rudolph.jpg
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Jack_Frost_Prop_film_1998.jpg
https://bloody-disgusting.com/reviews/3324115/defense-holiday-edition-bl…