Everyone always raves about the options for Christmas movies. I personally think most of them are pretty over-played and too fluffy for my sensibilities. For example, my sister wanted me to watch “The Knight before Christmas” with her. A love story about a time-travelling knight during, you guessed it, Christmas time. Puke. If you’re not already entrenched in the phenomenon of Netflix Original movies, let me educate you. They’re awful. This is the third Christmas in a row where my sister is trying to get me to watch the “Christmas Prince” sequels. Last year it was “A Christmas Prince: The Royal Wedding” and this year is “A Christmas Prince: The Royal Baby”.
Its times like this that I miss the simplicity of the Halloween season, pure gore, jump scares, and truly endless hours of choices, both good and bad. Christmas movies have a sense of timelessness if they’re actually any good. But even the “good” Christmas movies still seem to miss the mark for me. Here is a comprehensive list of some of my recommended Christmas movies to watch this season.
“NOS4A2” 2019 Television Series (Available on Hulu)
Ok, so I admit I haven’t finished this series YET. It just came out about 2 months ago on Hulu and I’ve just gotten around to watching it after my sister recommended it (I already have viewing trust issues with her). The series actually is a horror series but with a slight Christmas theme. A man (played by Zachary Quinto) drives a wraith abducting children he sees as abused to go to his special “Christmas Land.” Nefarious deeds ensue while a woman realizes her special creative abilities. I highly recommend this for the horror lover that wants some festive themes in the context. It was adapted from the second book written by Stephen King’s son Joe Hill (King) and I can’t wait to see how it unfolds!
“The Grinch Who Stole Christmas” 2000 Movie (Available on Netflix)
I have to mention this movie simply because it’s my mom’s ALL TIME favorite Christmas movie, and Christmas is her favorite holiday. I can (proudly?) say that everyone in my family can quote this movie in its entirety. We’ve already set a limit in my parent’s household how many times we’re allowed to watch each year. The Grinch (Jim Carrey) is a grumpy outcast who lives in the mountain above Who Ville, and concocts a plan on how to steal Christmas. I love this adaptation because it’s truly hilarious, and they humanize the Grinch in a way that really makes you feel for the loneliness that comes with being an outcast in society. It’s great for kids, but the adults enjoy it too. I consider that a win!
“It’s a Wonderful Life” 1946 Movie (Available on Youtube for $2.99)
Want to bring the mood down making everyone within a mile radius of you to cry? Watch “It’s a Wonderful Life”. Now considered one of the greatest movies of all time, its timeless themes keep you thinking and feeling this movie for days afterwards. When a man loses all hope for life, with the help of his guardian angel, he realizes how the world would be without him in it. Maybe it’s because Christmas is a really tough time for some people who have lost someone or who are experiencing isolation, but this movie brings a warm embrace to your heart. Forget Christmas, this is a movie for any occasion! Just remember to bring the tissues, and to make sure you’re surrounded by people you love.
“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” 1964 Movie (Available on Amazon Prime video for $9.99)
I know I said above that I don’t like fluffy – and this is as adorable and fluffy as you can get for the holiday season. However, hear me out – I can look past that simply because this movie is SO good. I loved it as a kid, and I still love it as an adult. It’s one of those movies about a red-nosed reindeer who feels like an outcast in his group. He meets an elf, who would rather be a dentist than a toymaker, and they go on a journey together. The stop motion still holds up with its 60’s charm and the themes are still relevant today. We’re all just trying to be ourselves and find a place where we are accepted for that.
“Love, Actually” 2003 Movie (Available on YouTube for $3.99)
I know, I know….”Love, Actually” I feel gets a lot of groans when I mention it. The truth is that it truly is a great movie, and has a little bit of everything for all the picky watchers in the family. Told throughout different perspectives of characters, “Love, Actually” follows the ups and downs of falling in, out, or sideways in love. Sometimes it’s a lover, a husband, a son, or a child with his first crush. It’s a touching movie that makes you wonder what life really is all about. Take that chance, love that person, and live life to the fullest that you can. Sometimes it can break your heart, and other times it makes you feel like you can fly. Even though it’s not a very old film, it’s quickly become one of the top Christmas movies in recent times. Add it to your list if you’ve never seen it! (and no, it’s not like “The Notebook”)
I feel like a lot of Christmas movies have this sad undertone with the hope of a better tomorrow, and I can see how the allure of Christmas movie watching season became so popular. We want to be a part of a family and friends to feel inclusive, even if they’re driving you crazy. It’s uniquely American that we can sell this dream that no matter your background, abilities, intelligence or creed, you are accepted, and everything will be okay (with a big bow on it!). Maybe it’s not all so bad…
What are your favorite movies to watch during the Christmas Season? List them below!
