by Alice Lambert
One of the many traditions that comes around this time of year is watching Christmas films, and with so many to choose from it can be difficult to agree on one for all. As work Christmas leave finally kicks in and school holidays begin, we’re taking a look at the best Christmas films for the perfect Christmas and Boxing day binges.
It’s a Wonderful Life
A touching drama, It’s a Wonderful Life first premiered in 1946 yet retains its popularity, and heartwarming story, to this day. This Christmas classic follows the life of George Bailey who spent his life helping others but, as he reaches the brink of despair, meets his guardian angel to see a world in which he never existed. It offers a poignant and inspirational plot perfect for Christmas and beloved by many.
Die Hard
Is it really a Christmas film? Whether the answer is yes or no, starring Bruce Willis, this action thriller is a great choice for those that want a change from classic Christmas movies.
With guns, terrorists, and explosions, it’s not necessarily full of Christmas cheer, but it remains one of the most enjoyed films during the festive period; and arguably contains enough action to avoid any post-turkey naps!
Elf
Any film with Will Ferrell is guaranteed to cause some belly laughs and Elf does not disappoint.
A story focused on Buddy, a human who was accidentally transported to the North Pole and raised amongst the elves, we watch his journey to New York City to meet his father. Elf follows the ensuing hilarity and chaos of Buddy’s arrival in New York, meeting Zooey Deschanel along the way, it never fails to put a smile on faces no matter how many times you’ve seen it.
The Polar Express
With Tom Hanks and Josh Hutcherson leading the voice cast of this animated film, The Polar Express follows a young boy who is unconvinced by Christmas magic. We watch as he embarks on a mystical train ride and a journey of introspection about life, friendship - and Christmas.
The Holiday
Wouldn’t we all love to escape to a house on the other side of the world and meet the person of our dreams? The Holiday is a heart-warming romance with one of the most beautiful music scores by Hans Zimmer and Heitor Pereira. It’s a film packed with romantic meet-cutes and touching relationships all brought together with a star-studded cast of Cameron Diaz, Jude Law, Kate Winslet, and Jack Black.
Home Alone
Merry Christmas, ya filthy animals! Home Alone follows Kevin McAllister, played by child star Macaulay Culkin, as he lives the childhood dream of being left alone in a big house with no adult supervision. Not only does this film provide classic comedic moments, but also reminds us of the importance of being with loved ones at this time of year. The best part? Seeing Goodfellas gangster, Joe Pesci, booby trapped by an 8-year-old boy.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas
A Classic Dr Seuss tale brought to life in the live-action version of the Grinch and tells the tale of a grumpy outcast of the fictional Whoville, who plots to destroy the towns Christmas by stealing all their decorations and gifts.
A comedy/fantasy film, we watch his reluctant friendship with the optimistic Cindy Lou Who, and her belief that Christmas is more than just physical presents. With an outstanding and hilarious performance by Jim Carrey, The Grinch is not only full of silly fun but reminds us about the true meaning of Christmas.
A Christmas Carol
Charles Dicken’s classic tale has undergone countless retellings; however, all follow the same plot line of the grouchy old Ebenezer Scrooge, who on Christmas Eve is visited by three ghosts the show him both past, present, and future, leading Scrooge on a life altering journey.
While there are many options to choose from, the most book-accurate is found in the 1984 TV movie of the same now. However, 1988’s ‘Scrooged’, starting Bill Murray, and an adaption by The Muppets are both top choices, too.
Family Switch
Family Switch is perfect for those who don’t want to watch the same film they’ve watched every year - as it only landed on Netflix November 30th!
In a Freaky Friday style mix up, the members of the Walker family, with Jennifer Garner and Ed Helms as the parents, accidentally swap bodies during the festive period. With lots of laugh out loud moments and a rocking rendition of Santa Claus is coming to town, it’s a great new addition to the Christmas film list.
Love Actually
Every Christmas movie list has to mention Love Actually. This interlinked nine story tale follows love in all shapes and forms with an outstanding cast of British actors and so many quotable moments. With both laugh-out-loud and gut-wrenching scenes; as well as multiple musical numbers, this film has a story for everyone, and reminds us about the importance of love, of any kind, at Christmas time.
Edited by Emily Duff