The changing of the weather signifies the holiday season, and this means it’s time to watch those classic holiday films. 2020 has been pretty rough, and we could all use some Christmas spirit. Here are some of my favorite films and where to watch them this year.
Without a doubt, Dr. Seuss’s “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” is at the top of this list. As the adaptation of a children’s book most people read, the film brings back nostalgic memories of when the audience was younger. The 1966 classic has the perfect blend of comedy, animation, and Christmas spirit, making it the best rewatchable family film.
Next on the list is the 2006 classic, “Elf.” Directed by Jon Favreau and starring Will Ferrell, the film has a so-so plot but uses its slapstick comedy pattern to engage the audience. “Elf” utilizes drama and comedy to exaggerate Ferrell’s sympathetic role as Buddy the Elf, or not-elf. The film indefinitely brings out the Christmas spirit in all those who watch it. This season, it is available with a Hulu subscription.
The next film is an old black and white film, but that shouldn’t distance your attention from it. With the perfect Rotten Tomatoes score of 100%, the 1942 musical “Holiday Inn” truly brings out the best of the Christmas spirit. Starring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire, artistic legends of the time period, the film utilizes its musical aspect to combine Christmas and romance in one way or another.
Following the 1942 musical, the 1946 film “It’s a Wonderful Life” leaves a moral message while using Christmas time as its outlet. Directed by the Academy Award winner Frank Capra, the film has heavy plot exposition but quickly turns it into a Christmas theme. “It’s a Wonderful Life” has an amazing message perfect to hear during the holiday season. This film can be watched through an Amazon Prime membership.
If you are a fan of action movies, look no further. Although it was not released during the holiday season, “Die Hard” does take place during Christmastime. With great performances from Bruce Willis and Alan Rickman, I highly recommend this film to those who haven’t seen it before. “Die Hard” can be viewed with a Hulu, HBO Max, or Amazon Prime membership.
“Remember the Night,” released in 1940, follows the story of a couple who go through a rocky relationship during Christmas time. As you can tell, the film is a rom-com but the two are balanced extremely well. This film is free to watch with a Peacock membership.
The next film, directed by Chris Columbus, is one that most people know very well. The 1990 classic “Home Alone” follows the life of Kevin McCallister, who is accidentally left at home when his family travels to France for the holiday. While being robbed by the “wet-bandits,” Kevin uses his meticulously placed traps to secure his home from invasion. The classic film has great slapstick comedy, which gives joy during the holiday time. “Home Alone” can be seen on Disney+.
Some honorable mentions include, “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” “Star Wars Holiday Special,” “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York,” and “A Christmas Story.”
Throughout the holiday season, I highly recommend you watch the stated films to give yourself some much-needed joy and Christmas spirit.
