Every year we are bombarded by the same classic Christmas flicks on our television screens. The likes of Santa Clause and Love Actually have stood the test of time but sometimes an alternative is what you need to really get you in the Christmas spirit. People get stuck into their Christmas favourites which is totally acceptable (I mean who doesn’t love Will Farrell dressed as an Elf?) but what we need to remember that Hollywood churns Christmas themed movies out more then you can say “Merry Christmas”. When this occurs, numerous Christmas flicks can get lost along the way and some of which are marked as underrated for good reason. Below are four underrated Christmas movies that you may have forgotten about;
1) One Magic Christmas:
This movie is perfect to watch with your younger siblings or cousins; and it definitely fills you with Christmas spirit. The film begins with an unruly family that is down on their luck and low on cash. After a few bumps and blimps (and a guardian angel named Gideon) the family realizes that in the end, the most important Christmas gift doesn’t come under a tree, but rather in our hearts and through the people we love (it’s not that sappy I promise). If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed by the commercialization of Christmas, this movie is a cute and heart-warming alternative.
2) I’ll be home for Christmas:
90s teen rom-com set during Christmas? Yes please! Coming home during the holidays is a must for some, but this film shows the classic student struggle; should we go home and enjoy our family meals or stay at uni and party? This flick is a total throwback, but will leave you smiling and probably laughing. Might be best to watch it with your crush, but if he (or she) is not available then have a movie night with your friends and enjoy the cringe-worthy styles of this era. The movie begins in California, so it might be a nice change of scenery initially. Also, the lead actor is really cute (in a 90s boyband kind of way). If you are looking for a chill and funny teen movie, this one is for you.
3) Snow Dogs:
While not necessarily a Christmas centred Film, This movie is by far the most feel good family friendly flick on this list. While it begins with a melancholic undertone, the protagonist Ted Baker provides an adventure which will get you in the mood for all things fun packed during the holidays. Upon finding out his birth mother passes away and has left him items in her will, he travels from is upmarket life in California to a simplistic village in Alaska. Based in this gorgeous white Christmas setting with Husky Dogs, sledging and filled with adventure, this film will leave you craving Christmas action!
4) Serendipity:
This beautiful romance provides all kinds of Christmas feels with the perfect mix of fate, destiny and Christmas magic. It will make you believe that this time of year can bring anything your way! Set in idyllic settings throughout the US, Sara Thomas and John Trager meet on the unlikely night of Christmas Eve shopping for their respective lovers. While agreeing to separate they (and you) cannot deny the instant connection that pulses from the screen. Christmas magic and fate brings them together once more, but while still with their lovers and a few more hurdles that are added to the complication, they find there undeniable connection is to strong to pass off for a second time. This Rom Com will get you and your friends feeling blissfully warm hearted even on a cold winters night!