Now that the holidays are almost here, it’s time to start planning your festive celebrations and for us, there’s nothing quite like a classic Christmas movie. Here are our top choices (in no particular order) which we find ourselves reaching for time and time again – find them on your favorite streaming platform this year:
Die Hard – While not strictly a Christmas film, the original Die Hard film is essential viewing around the holidays. Fast paced action and iconic dialogue set on Christmas Eve makes for a nice change from some of the more traditional, family-friendly movies out there.
Miracle on 34th Street – The original 1947 movie is a classic, but we also have a lot of time for the remake in 1994. Set in New York, the films tell the story of Kris Kringle and his fight in court to be acknowledged as the real Santa Claus, supported by a young girl, Susan, who initially doesn’t believe in Santa at all.
A Muppet Christmas Carol – There are multiple screen adaptations of Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’ but the Muppet version is just fantastic! Sticking surprisingly close to the original story, Micheal Caine plays Ebenezer Scrooge along with a full cast of Muppets.
Home Alone – You’d find it tough to find anyone who hasn’t seen Home Alone. Released in 1990, the tale of Kevin McCallister defending his home after he’s left behind at Christmas is satisfyingly entertaining on repeat viewings!
How the Grinch Stole Christmas – An adaptation of Dr Seuss’ book, the darker tone and grumpy figure of the Grinch alongside the Whos of Whoville is very compelling. Packed with lots of festive cheer, the ending will prove satisfying to everyone.
Elf – Will Ferrell’s depiction of Buddy, an elf who discovers that he’s actually human and heads to New York to find his real father, is one of his most iconic roles. As well as a charming story, the film’s soundtrack is full of holiday classics.
It’s a Wonderful Life – Initially a bit of a flop when it was released in 1946, now this is regarded as one of the best Christmas movies of all time. George Bailey is considering suicide on Christmas Eve but his guardian angel seeks to save his life by showing him the good he has done through his life. Yes, it’s emotional but the ending is just perfect.
The Holiday – Set in both LA and a small village in England, The Holiday is a romantic comedy with an all-star cast. Kate Winslet and Cameron Diaz swap homes at a point when they are both unhappy with life, before finding happiness over the holidays. Starting the Hallmark trend of festive romantic films, this is one of the best examples!
Love Actually – Telling multiple stories in the lead up to Christmas (which all end up being connected), this is one of the most popular festive films out there. Featuring a huge cast of actors and plenty of fun moments, this British movie has become a classic.
The Polar Express – Definitely one for the whole family, this animated movie depicts the journey of the Polar Express, a magical train on its way to the North Pole and what happens when they reach Santa’s workshop.
Everyone’s Christmas movie watch list is different so whatever is on yours, we hope you have the chance to watch them all this year!
If you’ve missed any of the other posts, catch up on all the previous days of our 12 Days of an Adventures with Sarah Christmas here.
