I think we can all agree that Christmas isn’t really Christmas until you’ve argued over which festive flick to watch. There are so many great ones to choose from; black and white classics such as Miracle on 34th Street, terrible late 90s films like Jingle All the Way, and how can we forget the timeless animation The Nightmare Before Christmas?
If you, like so many people around the world, are struggling to choose a Christmas film then look no further. After many discussions, we’ve created a list of the five best films to watch over the festive period.
Elf
This absolute Christmas comedy classic starring Will Ferrell and Zooey Deschanel follows Buddy the ‘elf’ on his journey to find his real Dad. After growing up in the North Pole, but not really noticing that he’s about 4ft taller than everyone else, Buddy learns that he isn’t really an elf, so travels to New York to find his family and real identity.
Why it is so good
The honest humour of this film is what really makes it. All family members, young and old will be laughing their heads off at Will Ferrell and his child-like wonder and behaviour.
It’s a Wonderful Life
This 1946 feel-good film is on every year in most homes across the country. It follows businessman George Bailey, who believes he will be held responsible for hiding money and be sent to jail. This drives George to contemplate suicide, which is when an angel visits to show him what life would have been like if he had never been born.
Why it is so good
This film has been popular since 1946 for a reason. It does a great job at putting things in perspective, and reminds about how good we really have it.
Home Alone
No one wants to be left alone at Christmas, but that’s exactly what happens to 8-year old Kevin when his family forgets about him and leaves him at home whilst they jet off to Paris. Kevin doesn’t mind though, he gets to eat lots of pizza and make a mess (pretty much living the dream I’d say) until two burglars attempt to rob his house on Christmas eve.
Why it is so good
The hilarious and inventive booby traps set up by Kevin will have everyone giggling, particularly when the two burglars manage to set off every single one.
Love Actually
At 13 years old, this film is still a firm favourite for many people. Multiple interrelated stories about love, and the obstacles people face to reach it, are told against the backdrop of has-been rock star Billy Mack and his rubbish Christmas themed comeback song. Be warned though, it isn’t one to watch with kids or your parents!
Why it is so good
The multiple storylines are fantastically linked, and you’ll find yourself going through every emotion possible. Prepare to cry, laugh, and feel all loved up.
The Muppets Christmas Carol
Dickens and the Muppets come together in this telling of A Christmas Carol, but with an added dose of fun. The evil Ebenezer Scrooge is faced with three ghosts as he travels through time during the night of Christmas Eve. Come the end you’ll be singing, celebrating, and wishing a rich grumpy man would buy you a massive turkey.
Why it is so good
The story was first published in 1843, and is still loved by people today. The Muppets have made it more accessible and fun for younger audiences in this great film.
