Top 10 Christmas Movies

Just as the classic song states, Christmas truly is the most wonderful time of year. And for those who don’t agree, you’re probably still bitter you didn’t get a Tickle Me Elmo or Nerf gun from Santa in 1996.  Even though every family has their own personal favourites, here is a list of some of the greatest Christmas movies ever made.

10. Jingle All The Way (1996): I know what you’re all thinking…Arnold Schwarzenegger was in a movie besides Terminator and Predator? Arnold being cast in a family Christmas film is just about as baffling as him running for the Mayor of California…Oh wait. If you love The Arnold, you will love this movie!

9. Miracle on 34^th Street (1994): Although the original movie is more critically acclaimed, the 1994 remake is more relatable for those not living in the 1950’s! This Christmas classic tells the story of a young girl who meets a department store Santa Claus that changes her pessimistic parent’s opinion on whether Santa really exists, while finding the true meaning of Christmas.

8. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946): Seriously how could It’s a Wonderful Life not be a part of this list? It’s every parent and film critic’s favourite Christmas movie! Who knew dark themes of depression and suicide could end up becoming one of the most well-known and praised Christmas movies of all time?

7. Love Actually (2003): Primarily based in London England, Love Actually follows the lives of eight different people five weeks before Christmas. Despite having an excessive amount of stories to follow, this star studded British cast provides an optimistic view on love in spite of adversity.

6. The Santa Claus (1994): Truthfully, the two awful sequels following this movie have taken away some of the charm and wit from the original. Even though Tim Allen isn’t known for appearing in any decent films (Wild Hogs anyone?), his role as Scott Calvin in The Santa Claus is his best work aside from Home Improvement.

5. How The Grinch Stole Christmas (1966): And no I’m not referring to that awful Jim Carrey remake… Despite his attempts to ruin Christmas for every Who in Whoville, the Grinch is forever changed after realizing the Who’s happiness stems from their love for each other, rather than materialistic items.  Thus showing even those with hearts two sizes too small are captivated by the spirit of Christmas. Aww!

4. Elf (2003): Buddy the Elf (Will Ferrell) went through the seven levels of the candy cane forest and the sea of swirly twirly gum drops to search for his biological father after the realization he is human. Not only is this movie filled with hilarious quotes, (“Buddy the Elf, what’s your favourite colour?”) this instant-classic can be enjoyed by both children and adults.

3. Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer (1964): Considering they air Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer every Christmas Eve on CBC, I’d be surprised if someone hasn’t seen this movie. Not only is this film narrated and executed well, memorable characters such as Hermey the Elf, Yukon Cornelius and the Island of Misfit Toys make this the best version of the classic story.

2. National Lampoons Christmas Vacation (1989): Who wouldn’t want the loving and selfless Clark Griswold as their father? Despite his attempts to have a perfect Christmas, his crazy relatives, up-tight neighbours and cheap Boss prevent him from having an ideal holiday. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is easily the best of the series, and Chevy Chase’s last great movie.

1. Home Alone 1&2 (1990, 1992): Remember when Macaulay Culkin was the most famous child star and starred as the adorable and witty Kevin McCallister in the Home Alone franchise? Unlike most movie sequels, the second instalment of Home Alone is just as good, if not better than the original. This heart warming and hilarious film is an absolute must-see and will continue to be a Christmas classic for years to come.

TV Christmas Special mentions go to: Beavis and Butthead Do Christmas, The Simpsons Christmas Specials and A Charlie Brown Christmas.

ChugSpikedEggNogAndHappyHolidays!