- “The Christmas Carol”
- “A Christmas Story”
- “The Nutcracker and the Four Realms”
- “The Little Drummer Boy”
8-Bit Christmas
(Now TV(UK)/HBO Max (US))
The film is set in a small town in the early 1980s, and follows the story of Ralphie (Ethan Hawke) as he tries to convince his family to get him a Red Ryder air rifle for Christmas. The film is set in a small town in the early 1980s, and follows the story of Ralphie (Ethan Hawke) as he tries to convince his family to get him a Red Ryder air rifle for Christmas.
In truth, this movie is quite similar, although it’s set in the late 80s and tells the story of young Jake who gets a Nintendo instead of something that could put your eye out at close range! But is it as good as that earlier movie? You betcha! ..
The movie is a heartwarming delight that evokes the period well and has many laugh-out-loud moments. The dialogue is witty and sharp, the father-son bonding is as emotional as it should be, and the story of Jake and his efforts to get a Nintendo will be familiar to anybody who went through the same in that era (and for anybody trying to get their hands on an elusive PS5 this Christmas).
This film is a modern festive classic, perfect for family viewing, and ideal for anybody looking to smile and shed a nostalgic tear over their childhood memories and relationships with their parents. ..
Klaus
(Netflix)
If you’re looking for a Santa Claus origin story, you could watch the recent A Boy Called Christmas on Now TV. Although that is a rather bland affair, in my opinion, hence the reason why it’s not on this list! Instead, check out Klaus, a beautifully animated movie that charts Santa’s origin in a new and wonderfully inventive way. ..
Jesper soon learns that the only way to make any friends in this town is to become Santa Claus. He also finds out that the townspeople are all very unhappy with their lives and are looking for a way out. Jesper takes on the role of Santa and begins to change the town for the better. ..
Jesper, a lonely boy, meets Klaus, a seemingly unfriendly woodsman. Klaus creates his own wooden toys and Jesper comes up with an idea to bring peace to the town and encourage people to write letters again. You can probably see where this is going but that’s okay, as the absurd sight gags, amazing hand-drawn animation, and messages of hope will give you a reason to keep watching, despite the expected ending. ..
Krampus
Krampus is a movie for adults and older teenagers only, as it is a fright-fest that will make you think twice about your behaviour in the run-up to Christmas.
A family is forced to battle Krampus, the legendary anti-Santa, one wintry Christmas season. Max, tired of his bickering relatives, tears up his letter to Santa. From there, all kinds of mayhem ensues involving not only Krampus but murderous elves, evil little gingerbread men, and a child-eating Jack-in-the-box clown too. Not your average Christmas then! ..
The Gremlins are back and this time they’re on the loose in your home. This time they’re not just harmless but dangerous, as they’ve been mutated by a government experiment gone wrong. If you can’t stop them, you’ll be the one who’s stuck with them for the holidays.
Love Actually
For others, it might not be as appealing. But for those who love a good Christmas cracker, Richard Curtis’ film is definitely worth a watch.
If you are a fan of the movie, you should see it. But if you are not a fan of the movie, expect to see a gallery of stars, including Bill Nighy, Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson, Keira Knightley, and Emma Thompson interact and fall in love with one another during the Christmas season. ..
The new romantic movie, “Love Actually,” is a popular choice for Christmas this year. The film features many scenes of love between people, and is sure to make anyone feel sentimental. The cynical may not be moved by the scenes, but those who are heartless will find much to love in the movie. ..
Happiest Season
(Now TV (UK)/ (US))
Harper returns home to her family with her partner in tow, Abby, played by Kristin Stewart. The only problem is, she hasn’t yet told her family that she is gay. This isn’t that surprising considering she has to deal with judgmental siblings, an uptight mother, and a father who is in the running to be mayor. ..
The movie has its funny moments and its emotional moments. It’s a mix that can work for some people, but not for others. For those who find the comedy too broad, the emotional moments might be too much. But for those who appreciate a good mix of humor and emotion, the movie might be right up your alley. ..
This movie is not a Christmas classic, but its message of being true to yourself is told in a refreshing and bold way, without falling into the trap of similar movies that resort to clichés and unrealistic happy endings.
The film is definitely worth a watch if you’re looking for something that is funny, romantic, and meaningful, and it might be your movie of choice if you want the catalyst to share long-hidden secrets with your family.
Miracle on 34th Street
(NowTV (UK)/Hulu (US)/HBO Max (US))
While the remake with Richard Attenborough does a good job of capturing the magic of this film, there’s just no beating the original from 1947. ..
The Miracle on 34th Street is a well written and imaginative story that has heart and charm. It is a festive cracker that will leave you feeling happy. ..
The story follows a divorced New York mother who hires an old man to play Santa Claus at Macy’s. When his sanity is questioned, a lawyer defends him in court.
If you haven’t seen the original, Miracle on 34th Street is a brilliant movie and certainly one of the best Christmas movies out there. ..
It’s A Wonderful Life
When “It’s a Wonderful Life” was first released, it was not as successful as other Frank Capra films. However, over time this classic has become a mainstay on the Christmas calendar. ..
The man in the story is disgruntled and frustrated with life. He’s shown what life would have been like if he never existed, and it’s a pretty straight forward story.
The film’s main themes are the importance of family, community and the interconnectedness of all life. The line “each man’s life touches so many other lives” is a powerful statement that is echoed throughout the film.
The Nightmare Before Christmas
(Disney+)
What’s this? A Halloween film or a Christmas film? Well, how about both? Yes, Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas is a wonderfully imaginative and unusual take on the conventional Christmas movie. It’s the perfect way to celebrate both holidays at once! ..
The animation is superbly done, the imagery typical Tim Burton weirdness but with enough heart and charm to make it a somewhat restrained offering from him too.
In “Jack Skellington,” director Tim Burton weaves a dark and whimsical tale of one man’s struggle to find meaning in a world that seems to have none. When the Pumpkin King, Jack Skellington (Michael Keaton), becomes disillusioned with the joyless celebration of Halloween, he stumbles upon Christmas Town and attempts to incorporate the festivities into his own land. Of course, everything goes wrong. With its jolly inhabitants and bright lights, Christmas Town is a far cry from the dreary Halloween landscape. But as Jack begins to fall in love with Christmas, he discovers that life can be just as bleak as ever - if you’re not careful. Featuring an all-star cast including Danny Elfman, Catherine O’Hara, and Michelle Pfeiffer, “Jack Skellington” is a visually stunning journey into the heart of darkness. ..
The message of this album is one of hope and redemption. Some of the songs are well-composed, while others are just really catchy. The overall message is one of hope and change.
Home Alone
(Disney+)
Home Alone and its sequel, Home Alone 2, are wonderful Christmas movies but that doesn’t mean they’re not enjoyable all year round too. There are some great jokes, the pranks are brutal and the wacky, cartoony tone helps to keep everything lighthearted. ..
Kevin McCallister is an 8-year-old boy who is largely frowned upon by his large family. When he’s accidentally left home alone during Christmas vacation, he must defend his house from a pair of burglars. ..
The Home Sweet Home Alone prank scene was absolutely brutal. While Macaulay Culkin absolutely carries the film, his charm, clever quips and elaborate traps make it all the more enjoyable. The less said about Home Sweet Home Alone the better.
Die Hard
(Disney+/IMDBTV (with ads)
Die Hard is one of the most popular action movies of all time, and it’s no wonder. It’s well-made, well-acted and has a great story. So why not add it to the list of top 10 action movies?
Die Hard is one of the most iconic Christmas films of all time. It’s a classic action movie that has been loved by audiences for over 25 years. Some people argue that it isn’t really a Christmas film, but that’s only part of its appeal. Die Hard is a perennial favorite and continues to be popular every year. ..
The hostage situation in New York City began when a gunman opened fire on a police officer’s car. John McClane, an NYPD officer, tried to save his wife and several other people who had been taken hostage.
John is forced to fight back against Hans Gruber and the German terrorists by himself. ..
Die Hard is a great movie that is still enjoyed by many people to this day. The sequels have tried to replicate the magic that was created in the original, but none have come close to the greatness of Die Hard.
We compiled a list of the best Christmas movies to watch this year, based on our opinions and what we felt were the best films of the year. We hope you enjoy!
