Since Thanksgiving is over, it is officially time for Christmas, and there is no better way to get into the Christmas spirit than watching an entertaining holiday movie with a cup of hot cocoa. Here is a list of holiday movies to watch while bundled up in a blanket by the fireplace, decorating your house, or wrapping some gifts.
Christmas classics are always a must-watch in December. A classic film was always on in the background of my grandparents’ house when we visited during the holiday season. If you are looking to feel some nostalgia with your family while setting up the tree, these films will warm your heart and fill your spirit with festive cheer.
A Christmas Story – A young boy named Ralphie attempts to convince his parents to buy him a 200-shot BB gun for Christmas. His mother is rightfully against the purchase as he will “shoot his eye out” with it. Between wanting a BB gun, fending off school bullies, and dealing with a chaotic holiday family, Ralphie attempts to do absolutely everything he can to make his dream come true.
It’s a Wonderful Life – George Bailey is a helpful man who never stops giving to his community, despite living a life he did not wish for. He does not enjoy his job, and he longs to travel. When he meets his guardian angel, Clarence, he goes through eye-opening experiences and learns the value of life. Personally, I hear the quote “Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings” at least 20 times during this season.
The Santa Clause – An ordinary man named Scott randomly causes Santa Clause to fall off his roof on Christmas Eve. Now, Scott and his son must complete Santa’s deliveries. When he is taken to the North Pole and meets the elves, Scott learns that he is now the new Santa Clause. If I looked in the mirror and all my hair turned white and I gained Santa weight, I would freak out.
The Holiday season can be easily overwhelming, scrambling to buy last-minute presents, non-stop cooking for the Christmas events, and dealing with crazy relatives. If you are in need of a good laugh to cheer up your spirit, here are some comedy movies that will have you falling off your couch laughing.
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation – The Griswold family is preparing for their Christmas celebration. Unfortunately, their peace is interrupted by the loud, obnoxious guests staying with them. The only thing keeping Clark, the patriarch of the family, in good spirits is his Christmas bonus that is sure to be on the way. Clark definitely wins the most decorative house with over 20,000 lights covering absolutely everything. Almost every two minutes of the movie I had tears in my eyes due to the sarcastic witty jokes.
The Holdovers – Professor Paul Hunham is heavily disliked by his students, strict grading, sarcastic, opposite of fun. When he is informed he has to stay over Christmas break and take care of the four students that do not have anywhere to go, he tries to make the experience completely educational. Angus Tully, one of the students holding over, is forced to spend time with Professor Hunham since his mom chose to go on vacation with her wealthy new boyfriend. Mary Lamb, one of the cooks staying at the school, also bonds with Angus and Professor Hunham, and together they must navigate their complicated lives and relationships. Between the petty arguments, the grumpy attitudes, and the emotional chaos, this movie is perfect for making you laugh.
Home Alone – Eight-year-old, Kevin, has deep troubles with his humongous family. He acts up and gets bullied by his older siblings and just wishes his family would disappear. When he is mistakenly left at home alone while his family goes on Christmas vacation, Kevin must learn to fend for himself against two burglars planning to invade his home right before Christmas. This is a movie my family and I watch every year due to the perfect balance of cuteness and humor.
Some of the best romantic comedy movies are holiday oriented. So, when this season comes around, I get beyond excited to start my binge. These Christmas romantic comedies will make you feel giddy and warm despite this freezing cold weather.
Love Actually – Taking place in London, eight couples all frantically scramble to sort out their love lives six weeks before Christmas. Some couples are struggling; some are thriving. It progresses in a weekly countdown up until Christmas day. As the relationships between these characters unfold, we see the holiday love and chaos take place. This movie is not only adorable, but also full of feel-good laughs and heartwarming moments.
Four Christmases – Couple, Brad, and Kate, escape their chaotic divorced parents on Christmas every year by going on a relaxing vacation. However, plans do not work out this year, and they are forced to spend Christmas at each one of their parents’ houses. Will Brad and Kate’s relationship survive their out-of-control family festivities?
The Holiday – Amanda and Iris live two different lives. Amanda lives in LA and edits movie trailers while Iris lives in Surrey as a journalist. They are both stressed and decide to swap houses for the holiday. What they end up running into shocks them; a love interest. Amanda develops a crush for Iris’s brother Graham, and Iris falls for Miles, a film composer. Jack Black is well known for his sarcastic humor, but in this film, he will charm you with his endearing personality.
Now, go bake some cookies for Santa, start putting up the ornaments on your tree, and turn on one of these cheerful movies. These movies are guaranteed to put even the grumpiest grinch in a merry mood.
