Hi everyone! How are you all? I hope you all have a smasher of a day! Once again, instead of the Wednesday Weekly Blogging Challenge, just for fun, I’ve decided to share with you a list of my favourite Christmas movies. I wonder if any of you share some of these favourites with me.
10 of My Favourite Christmas Movies
The holiday season approaches, and so does an abundance of nostalgia and tradition, including decking the halls, carolling, and baking little Christmas-themed cookies. However, my favourite tradition is the well-practised ritual of gathering around the TV to enjoy some festive-themed movies! So, let’s jump in!
1 Santa Claus: The Movie (1985)
This enchanting tale offers a delightful origin story of Santa Claus and his wife, Anya, played by David Huddleston and Judy Cromwell, respectively and Patch, the loveable elf, played by Dudley Moore.
The film features a charming narrative that combines elements of fantasy and adventure, following the transition of Santa from a humble toymaker to the beloved figure we know today. Its whimsical portrayal of the North Pole, the creation of toys and Christmas magic is guaranteed to enchant audiences of all ages, making it a timeless classic.
2 Love Actually (2003)
A modern holiday staple in my house, “Love Actually”, weaves together multiple storylines that explore all the complexities of love during the festive season. Set in London, this romantic comedy boasts a stellar ensemble cast, including Hugh Grant, Keira Knightley, Emma Thompson and Alan Rickman, to name but a few.
3 While You Were Sleeping (1995)
Another romantic comedy here, and this one stars Sandra Bullock in a delightful tale of mistaken identity and unexpected romance. Set against the backdrop of Christmas in Chicago, the film captures the warmth and joy of the season as Lucy, a lonely Transit Authority token collector, saves her crush, Peter, from an oncoming train, only to be mistaken for his fiancée while he lies in a coma.
The film beautifully explores the themes of family, love, and connection, all while sprinkling in charming holiday cheer.
4 The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
This stop-motion wonder is an unusual fusion of Halloween and Christmas and is perfect for watching in October or December! The movie focuses on Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, who discovers Christmas Town and attempts to bring his own twist to the holiday. Its unique aesthetic and captivating musical numbers have made it a favourite for children and adults alike, offering a fresh take on holiday traditions that emphasise the significance of embracing one’s true identity.
With its iconic songs by Danny Elfman and stunning animation, “The Nightmare Before Christmas” has garnered a much-deserved cult following, becoming a beloved classic that challenges and expands the traditional holiday narrative. We never skip this movie in our house, and it’s usually the first Christmas movie we watch.
As a side note, I’d like to add that if you love this movie, you will love the sequel novel “Long Live The Pumpkin Queen“, which explores Sally’s origins and offers a glimpse at Jack and Sally’s relationship following the events in the movie.
5 The Santa Clause (1994)
This one has Tim Allen as Scott Calvin, a man who inadvertently becomes Santa Claus after the previous Santa falls from his roof. The film cleverly explores the themes of fatherhood, family, belief, and the magic of Christmas.
With its mix of humour and touching moments, “The Santa Clause” has been a holiday favourite of mine since the very first time I watched it as a kid.
6 Batman Returns (1992)
While not a traditional Christmas film, “Batman Returns” is set against a wintry Gotham City backdrop, filled with holiday decorations and festive motifs. Directed by Tim Burton, the film features Michael Keaton in the titular role, battling Danny DeVito’s sinister Penguin and Michelle Pfeiffer’s magnificent Catwoman.
The juxtaposition of the holiday season with dark themes adds a unique twist, making it a compelling watch for those who enjoy a little darkness mixed with our seasonal spirit.
7 Die Hard (1988)
What has become a perennial debate in my family, and, I’m sure, in others, is whether “Die Hard” qualifies as a Christmas movie. I say it deserves its spot on Christmas movie lists; it is, after all, set on Christmas Eve. Maybe I merely have loose criteria for what constitutes a Christmas movie. Anyway, back to the film.
Bruce Willis is John McClane, a New York police officer visiting Los Angeles in an attempt to get back together with his wife. While they are at a Christmas party at the company she works for, a group of terrorists take over the building, and soon enough, McClane gets to work trying to rescue hostages.
The film masterfully combines action, suspense, and holiday cheer, making it a thrilling watch for those who want a more action-packed movie-watching experience amid the usual festive fare.
8 Scrooged (1988)
This movie makes Christmas “Christmas” for me. It is a modern retelling of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol”, in which Bill Murray portrays a cynical television executive who undergoes a transformative journey, guided by three spirits revisiting his past, present, and future. With its sharp humour and heartfelt moments, “Scrooged” captures the essence of redemption and compassion, making it a perfect watch during the holiday season.
9 How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Jim Carrey stars as the titular character, whose disdain for Christmas drives him to plot a heist against the Whos of Whoville.
This live-action adaptation captures all the whimsical essence of Dr Seuss’s beloved story and the magic of the animated special of the 1960s.
Carrey’s energetic performance, layered with vibrant visuals and catchy music, creates a festive atmosphere that embodies the holiday spirit. Christmas is not allowed to pass without us in front of the TV and watching this movie at some point.
10 The Muppets’ Christmas Carol (1992)
This movie is another delightful adaptation of Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol”, with this one featuring much less Bill Murray and way more Muppets in a whimsical musical experience. With Michael Caine as Ebenezer Scrooge, the film blends humour, music, and myriad heartwarming moments, making it a treat for all.
Well, that’s my list of favourite Christmas movies. Are there any you think should be on there that aren’t or even shouldn’tbe on there that are?
As ever, thank you for reading my post. I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and a happy and prosperous new year!
Until next time,
George
© 2024 GLT
GEORGE L THOMAS 
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