I have to admit, I’m a sucker for all holiday films. From the classics, to the cheesy Hallmark/Lifetime/Netflix originals, I watch them all! No matter how difficult the real world becomes, there is something so comforting about a joyful escape. In honor of the most wonderful time of the year, here are a dozen movies I watch every holiday season. Grab some eggnog, put on some comfy Christmas socks and enjoy a few of my recommendations.
12. Frosty the Snowman
This animated classic is short and sweet. Everybody’s favorite confused snowman shines in this made-for-TV special. As I get older, the magician seems creepier and creepier. I also wonder if Karen’s parents were worried. She seemed to be missing for a long time! Do yourself a favor and watch this cute flick, but feel free to skip the sequels.
11. The Year Without a Santa Claus
While this is not my favorite of the claymation Christmas specials (see number four), it still makes the cut. The musical numbers from the Heat Miser and Snow Miser are classic. They’re “too much” and I love it! The little girl singing Blue Christmas also gets me every time.
10. The Polar Express
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America’s dad Tom Hanks makes this movie a classic! When it first came out, the computer-generated animation was pretty ground-breaking. I also appreciate the way they handle Santa Claus as being a symbol that we can choose to believe in. The soundtrack also helps. There is an animated elf Steven Tyler and Josh Groban’s song is beautiful.
9. Love Actually
Feel free to judge, but I actually love this movie. Yes, every storyline in this star-studded film is very problematic. The British humor is also not too kind to the American characters in the film. You can’t beat a good rushing through the airport for true love scene and the lobsters in the nativity are too funny.
8. How the Grinch Stole Christmas
The animated version is obviously a classic, but as an adult, I relate a lot more to Jim Carrey’s version of the Grinch. He was just trying to live his life, but the Whos would not leave him alone. Baby/child Grinch is adorable and you truly feel for his character. The subtle jokes for adults in this film are also hilarious.
7. A Charlie Brown Christmas
“Light’s please,” this is one of my all-time favorites. I could listen to Vince Guaraldi’s musical arrangements all year long. The holiday season would be incomplete without the scene where Linus explains the true meaning of Christmas. I also decorate with my very own version of “A Charlie Brown Christmas tree” every year.
6. White Christmas
If you enjoy listening to Bing Crosby sing “White Christmas,” this is the film for you. This classic is one long musical and I love it! One of my favorite numbers is when they sing about snow on the train. You also can’t beat Danny Kaye’s dance numbers.
5. The Santa Clause
This Christmas classic features America’s other dad, Tim Allen. It’s clever title is also the reason why I often misspell the word Santa Claus. Yes, I’ve seen all the sequels, but they can’t compete. A nice bonus is Bernard (or as Scott Calvin would say Barnaby) being completely sassy and real. This movie showcases a real American family and in the end, even Neil (the step-dad) gets what he wants for Christmas.
4. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
This is my favorite of the claymation Christmas specials. I even own an entire collection of Rudolph stuffed animals. I believe it is a rite of passage to be afraid of the abominable snowman. While there are a couple troubling lines (example: this is man’s work) the theme of being a misfit and the need to be inclusive in society will never go out of style.
3. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
Just like the Jelly of the Month club, this movie is the gift that keeps on giving! Every scene is absolutely ridiculous and don’t worry mom and dad, the inappropriate jokes always went over my head as a kid. Vegas vacation is pretty funny, but this is the best of the National Lampoon series. My only issue with this movie is it gave me unrealistic expectations. Unfortunately, Christmas bonuses are pretty rare and did not become a reality in my adult life.
2. A Christmas Story
I have to admit, I never saw this movie from start to finish until we bought the DVD. The TV marathon was a childhood staple though. This movie taught me to never stick my tongue on anything cold, even though it was tempting. The film also taught me how to say fragile, but in a fancy way. I’m also very impressed anytime I see a family incorporate a leg lamp in their holiday decor. Fun fact: Did you know Ralphie is also in my favorite Christmas movie of all-time?
1. Elf
Congratulations, you did it! You made it to the top of the list. This feel-good movie is not only my favorite holiday flick, but it’s also one of my favorite films ever. Yes, I know it’s goofy, and it’s the kind of fun we need in our lives every day. I turn this movie on whenever I need a break from life. The humor has gotten me through some pretty rough times. One year for my birthday, we even saw Elf the Musical! When we exited the theatre, it started to snow! Whenever I walk around NYC during the holidays, I also think of Buddy the Elf. Don’t worry though, I don’t make it a habit of walking in front of taxis.
Did your favorite films make the list? Let me know what you think!