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The Top 5 Essential Christmas Movies

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at TCNJ chapter.

There are so many Christmas movies. From the more newly released such as Elf to the classic A Christmas Carol, the selection is vast. Certain TV channels have countdowns while others endlessly replay the same movie over and over again. So, if you want to get into the Christmas spirit, but don’t want to watch every movie out there, what would be the best five to get you into the Christmas spirit?

That’s where this little list comes in handy!

1. A Christmas Carol

Let’s face it. We all have our Scrooge moments. Which is why despite his complete bitterness in life, we are captivated as he journeys through the past, present and future. As it is revealed, Ebenezer was once a nice, young boy, but life has shaped him into the penny-pinching greedy businessman that he is today. Yes, you know the story, but that doesn’t detract from the movie at all (there are several versions too so take your pick). Whichever Christmas Carol you decide upon, Tiny Tim is adorable and makes you truly happy as he says “God bless us, everyone!”

2.  How The Grinch Stole Christmas

“You’re a mean one, Mr. Grinch.” Speaking of the Scrooges in the world, it’s absolutely necessary to watch the Grinch.  It’s horribly enjoyable to watch him steal all the Christmas decorations in Who-ville and lie to Sally-Loo-Hoo. Despite his efforts to stop Christmas, Christmas spirit cannot be stolen. Without presents or trees, the citizens of Who-ville still sing and celebrate Christmas. Grinch comes to this realization as well, as his heart grows and he returns all of the stolen goods back to Who-ville. Personally, I love Who-ville and would like to become a member. This movie is yet another classic that you should watch during Christmastime.

3. A Christmas Story

Getting your tongue frozen to a metal pole? Check. Being overly dressed by your protective mother? Check. Forced to wear the worse Christmas PJ’s received. Check. And Father’s ugly leg lamp? Yes, yes and yes! Just so many moments to love and laugh at in this relatable portrayal of one boy’s Christmas.

4. The Santa Claus

When Tim Allen’s character accidentally kills Santa Claus, he becomes the new Santa. He is reluctant to play the new part, however, and some very funny scenes ensue. He thinks everything is just fine once Christmas season is over until he starts to gain weight for the next Christmas…so many holiday laughs, this movie is a must-see.

5. It’s A Wonderful Life

To round off the top five is a classic movie starring James Stewart. In this movie, the main character faces so many uphill battles against a greedy banker in town that he wishes he was never born. His guardian angel grants his wish, and he finds reality is completely changed if he had not existed-his brother would be dead, his wife an old spinster and the town he knows is owned by the greedy banker. At the end of the movie he realizes that he has a truly “wonderful life.”