Andrew Robinson
It’s that time of year again! There are gifts under the Christmas tree, decorations up around the house, and “Silent Night” playing on the radio. That also means it’s time for Christmas movies!
So what are the best Christmas movies out there? Here, we’ll highlight five that are worth your time.
5. Elf (2003)
The Will Ferrell and James Caan-led Christmas movie following a human raised as an elf at the North Pole (Ferrell) who wants to meet his biological father (Caan) is all sorts cute and hilarious. The always-wonderful Zooey Deschanel also has a big role as Jovie.
Elf will make the adults laugh just as much as the kids. And the themes of unconditional love and childlike innocence are truly heartwarming to see.
4. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
It’s a Wonderful Life follows the premise of an angel being sent to Earth in order to help a frustrated businessman get a new hold on life. Beloved by audiences everywhere, It’s a Wonderful Life is one of the oldest and most well-known Christmas movies, but also one of the greatest.
The perpetually excellent James Stewart leads a fantastic cast that includes Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore, and Thomas Mitchell – all of which have won an Oscar.
Watch this one for the heartwarming nature and for a bit of nostalgia.
3. Home Alone (1990)
This oftentimes ridiculous film that features a child and two robbers going head-to-head after the kid is forgotten at home when his family goes on a Christmas trip, Home Alone is full of laughs. An already-crazy premise is made even crazier when one thinks about what would happen in 2019 if something like this were to actually occur. In a role that has defined his entire career, Macaulay Culkin is extremely cute as the eight-year-old Kevin who must protect his home from the burglars (Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern).
Watch this one with your kids close by, and never fail to remember how important they are to you.
2. The Polar Express (2004)
In a film of wonder, fantasy, and friendship, The Polar Express follows a young boy as he travels to the North Pole via the Polar Express on Christmas Eve. With the unmatchable Tom Hanks in a major role, one already knows the film is going to have its brilliant moments. However, it goes much more than just Hanks, as the overwhelming messages surrounding friendship and bravery are beautiful to see.
According to the 2006 Guinness Book of World Records, this was the first film that featured all acted parts done in digital capture. The animation is breathtaking, especially for an early-2000s film.
The children will love this one.
1. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Jim Carrey is one of the best comedic actors of his generation, and he plays The Grinch to perfection. Living on the edge of Whoville, The Grinch is hellbent on ruining Christmas for all of the citizens that have contributed to his lack of acceptance within society. Masquerading as a comedy, this film is truly one about how the lack of love and acceptance can lead to people doing truly horrible things.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas implores its viewers to give out just a little bit of love. It’s a wonder what a little bit of love can do.
