Ten Holiday Movies For All to Watch

BY JENNY BRONT

SC Staff Writer

During the holiday rush, it is easy to forget the real meaning of Christmas.

Luckily, we have beloved and cherished movies to remind us why we celebrate this holiday.

From holiday classics to modern interpretations, these movies will inspire you and help make your holiday complete.

A Christmas Story” (1983)

This beloved classic which features Ralphie and his infamous Red Ryder BB Gun is a great movie to curl up near an open fire with a warm cup of eggnog.

This movie is a great way to show that if you really believe in something, a “Christmas miracle” may make your dreams come true.

Home Alone” (1990)

Kevin McCallister’s crazy Christmas adventures are another great way to spend the holiday season.

Whether you are just watching one movie, or having a marathon of all three “Home Alone’s” with loved ones, this  series of mishaps not only entertain, but also teach valuable lessons to its viewers.

Though at first Kevin is glad to have is large, annoying family out of his hair, he discovers that even with their flaws, they are still his family and begins to wish they are together for the holidays.

It reminds us that being together for the holidays is something you should not take for granted.

Also, watching this eight-year-old kid out prank some bumbling set of thieves is very entertaining.

The Muppet Christmas Carol” (1992), “Scrooged” (1988), or “A Christmas Carol” (1984 or 2009)

Be sure to catch at least one of the Ebenezer Scrooge’s story because nothing melts your heart more than a grumpy old man—or frog—finding the joy of the holidays.

It may also just work on the other Scrooges in your life and make your holidays even brighter.

The Nightmare Before Christmas” (1993)

For those who like a little Halloween in their Christmas, this movie is a perfect alternative to the classics.

Tim Burton never fails with his production and this is no exception. The fun animated treat is a great addition to your Christmas movie list.

The Polar Express” (2004)

A more contemporary animated film, this movie is a beautiful tale of a boy who finds his belief in Santa at the North Pole. The cute musical leaves each child with a message punched into their ticket with a lesson they have learned about themselves.

This is a great message for children, teaching them to believe in others and look deep within themselves to discover who they are.

The Santa Clause” (1994)

Tim Allen’s debut as Santa has gone further than anyone has expected, but this is the movie that started it all.

Scott Calvin undergoes a magical transformation into Santa Clause, after inadvertently killing the previous one. His journey doesn’t just end there—he also transforms from grumpy corporate Scrooge to the merry symbol of Christmas.

It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946)

Following a depressed George Bailey, the film teaches men, women, and children that no matter how rough life gets, their lives matter. Without George Bailey, a good man would be dead, while another would be in jail.

Though a tearjerker, the ending is worth watching to get the true meaning of Christmas: Family is worth living for.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (1996 or 2000)

Whether you opt for tradition or Jim Carrey, this is a must see film for this Holiday. It is a great, humourous way to teach children that Christmas isn’t just about gifts or decorations; it is the Christmas spirit that makes this a special time of year.

Santa Baby” (2006)

Though not a classic tradition, Jenny McCarthy is charming as protagonist Mary Class (aka Mary Clause), who helps save Christmas after her father, Santa Clause, falls ill.

Filled with humor, and charm this movie will make you smile no matter who you are.

The movie also teaches its viewers that you this holiday is about thinking about others rather than yourself—which is what Mary does when she foregoes her promising career in order to help her dad with Christmas.

Merry Christmas Charlie Brown” (1965)

The one tradition that has followed most people through childhood and adulthood– The Peanuts.

Instead of feeling the holiday festivities, Charlie seems to be blue—he believes that commercialism has taken over the holidays and that nobody knows why we celebrate Christmas anymore.

In the end he realizes that nothing should ruin his beliefs and that those beliefs are what keep him strong. If one people believe in the spirit of the Holidays, then it’s enough to make everyone feel it.

Though numerous other options exist out there, these are not only fun to watch but hold a great lesson behind them. No matter how you watch it, make sure to sit down with friends and family, and be nostalgic over your favorite Christmas classics.

Email Jenny at:

jbront@live.esu.edu