It’s that time of year, and amidst a flurry of gifts, lights and snow, are the timeless films we love to watch with our family and friends. The amount of films devoted to the spirit of Christmas is nearly countless, but here’s a few of the most iconic and lasting titles you may want to snuggle up with your family this year.
It’s a Wonderful Life
This film is a classic gem, about the divine intervention of a man prepared to commit suicide on Christmas Eve. His guardian angel saves him, and shows him how life would have been had he never been born. The film is quite a testament to the longevity of cinema, as it was released in 1946, and is still the go-to Christmas movie for families. This movie is perfect for anyone who wants a dose of nostalgic charm, vibrance, and goodwill.
Home Alone
A hearty success for budding child star, Macaulay Culkin, “Home Alone” is a humorous and lighthearted romp. Its plot follows a child who’s accidentally left behind by his family as they go on vacation. At first, he loves the freedom of being alone, but soon finds it’s a bit disheartening, especially when burglars try to invade. While the movie is light and bubbly overall, it conveys a message of family appreciation.
The Polar Express
Combining the techniques of computer animation with motion-capture technology, “The Polar Express” artfully tells a tale of several children, who board an enchanted locomotive that’s on a journey to Santa’s fortress in the North Pole. The film conveys an idea about the innocence of childhood, and believing in great things even though you can’t experience them tangibly.
A Muppet Christmas Carol
Based on Charles Dicken’s famous story, this film manages to combine fantasy, humor and a genuine love, seamlessly. The plot follows the basic formula of the three ghosts of Christmas, and the muppets respectively act out their roles with whimsy and flair. The film certainly communicates a positive message of friendship and togetherness that anyone can appreciate.
A Christmas Story
This film captures a decidedly darker tone than many Christmas movies, which is refreshing. The brilliant humor and casting of “A Christmas Story” is simply unmatched. It’s a film that will delight for years to come, and the unique narrated aspect of the story is something that imbues charm and realness to the film. Many movies portray a fantasy, but this film generates a completely life-like atmosphere that will resonate with everybody.
I hope you enjoyed this list as much as I enjoyed writing about it. Now it’s your turn, what are your top holiday movies?
_____________________
Loren Stacks is a booklover, music-lover and a freelance writer for companies like SecureYourTrademark.Com. Ever-frustrated with not being tan enough, he has a running project of visiting 12 beaches around the world in 12 months.
