It’s officially November, which means that the holiday season, and unfortunately exams, are just around the corner. In honour of the countdown to Winter Break, I thought that I would share some of my favourite, and arguably the best, Netflix holiday movies. As students, most of November and December encompass immense amounts of studying, all-nighters at the library and removing ourselves from all distractions. Although 2020 has been anything but ordinary, it is safe to assume that the stress during exams has not changed. I find that the best way to settle my brain during this stressful time is to sit back and watch a cringe holiday movie. It alleviates stress, temporarily clears my brain, and gives me the motivation to push through all of my studying since I have something to look forward to. If you are in need of a distraction during this stressful time of the semester and want to take a mind-cleansing break with friends, then here are some movies for you!
- Last Holiday
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What would you do if you were told you only had a few weeks to live? This comedic film starring Queen Latifah follows the story of Georgia quitting her job and fulfilling her dreams in the last few weeks of her life, taking off to Europe and living a lavish lifestyle. Although this is in no way a traditional holiday movie, it does remind each and every one of us to live life boldly. Plus, it is hilarious so it is the perfect movie to make you forget about school’s stress.
- Holidate
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Starring Emma Roberts and Australian actor Luke Bracey, this new Netflix Original Movie follows the story of two single people, who despite the holidays make a deal to be each other’s plus-ones to every festivity they attend. Despite the two vowing to keep the relationship purely platonic, as they get to know each other more and more things seem to take an expected twist. Although some of the language and behaviours in this movie test the bounds of the typical romantic comedy, perhaps some would even call it unnecessarily raunchy, it still hits the spot. Enjoy this wild rollercoaster of a movie!
- Christmas with the Kranks
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Although this movie has come under fire, it remains a classic Christmas movie that is a must watch every year around the Holidays. After deciding to forego their habitual Christmas traditions to take a trip, this couple immediately becomes social pariahs in their neighbourhood. When their daughter unexpectedly decides to return home for Christmas, the question becomes whether or not they can put Christmas together in a short period of time. Despite many critics shaming this movie for a lack of holiday spirit, this movie normalizes a very common reality which is that some people actually don’t like the holidays. If you are looking for a movie that actually does not contain much Holiday cheer, then this is the perfect movie for you.
- Holiday in the Wild
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Let me just start by saying that this is not your typical holiday movie! After her husband announces he plans to leave her, Kate decides to attend what was supposed to be her second honeymoon alone. After saving an elephant with help from the ruggedly handsome pilot Derek, Kate decides to extend her trip to work in the animal sanctuary and care for the vulnerable creature. Along the way she finds two new loves that mend her broken heart. If you are a fan of animals, a trip gone wrong and a bit of romance, this is surely the movie for you.
- Four Christmases
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Starring Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaughn, this comedy follows the story of a couple whose holiday vacation plans were abruptly ruined, forcing them to spend the holidays with each of their divorced parents. Despite their resistance, this unplanned visit actually turned out to be a much better experience than they could have anticipated. This movie accurately portrays the craziness of reuniting with family over the holidays and is quite funny, definitely something you must see at least once in your life. Also, who doesn’t love to watch a Reese Witherspoon movie?
- Christmas Inheritance
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Although this movie does not have the best cinematography or acting, I think this is a great movie that reminds us all of the true meaning of the holiday season. After her father sends Ellen to his small hometown to hand deliver some letters, she finds herself stranded and forced to open her eyes to what she has been truly missing. It is only when Ellen removes herself from her everyday life and sees the world through a new perspective that she is reminded of the true meaning of the holidays and life. When you look past the cringey moments, you will see why I think this is a great holiday flick.
- The Holiday
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The premise of this movie is highly unrealistic, I will admit, but feed into the fantasy for just two hours and I promise it will be worth it. When two women swap homes for the holidays, their lives change in the most unexpected ways. It is escaping their heartbreak and rocky relationships that lead them to find love. This film feeds into my unhealthy obsession with believing that my destined life is somewhere abroad, but I am not mad about it. Fans of travelling, comedy and romance should give this 2000s movie a chance.
- Love the Coopers
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The annual Cooper Christmas celebration is turned upside down by many unforeseeable events. Similar to a few mentioned above, this movie deals with a dysfunctional family that is reminded of the importance of holiday spirit and the bonds of family. Although the writing for this script is not the best or entirely realistic, this movie accurately depicts the spilling of personal problems and secrets is key to realizing that family is family, no matter what. A lesson everyone should be reminded of during the holidays. Moreover, the cast in this rom-com is just amazing!
I hope that you give yourself the opportunity to relieve some of that end of term stress by grabbing a blanket and snuggling in it as you enjoy any of these movies. During this time of year, we students always seem to neglect ourselves and our needs, so let this be a reminder that it is okay to take a break and have some mindless fun. I wish you all the best of luck with the last few weeks of the semester and your finals!