Christmas movies that are essential for the holiday season

Chloe McBride '23

Copy Editor

Christmas is my favorite (and arguably the best) holiday. I have definitely watched my fair share of Christmas movies, from nostalgic must-sees to cringe-worthy Hallmark ones that you love to laugh at. On the grounds of being a die-hard Christmas fan, I have compiled a list of the most life-changing Christmas films of all time that you definitely have to see at least once in your life:

“Elf”

If you haven’t seen this movie yet, which is currently streaming on Max, then you are absolutely missing out. “Elf” is the perfect combination of funny moments that will make you cough from laughing so hard, heartfelt scenes that might make you tear up and an insanely talented cast that will make you wonder where you’ve seen that person before (it took me years to figure out that the love interest was Zoey Deschanel). 

But aside from all these reasons, most of all, it will never fail to put you in the holiday spirit. Watching it makes me feel like I truly am in New York, spending the holidays skating in Rockefeller Center and starting snowball fights. 

“Home Alone”

I don’t even have to defend why “Home Alone” is on this list. I mean, who doesn’t love watching an eight year-old get left behind for Christmas and have to fight off two burglars through elaborate contraptions around the house? But, if you’re still on the fence about turning on this 90s classic that’s streaming on Hulu, Amazon Prime and Youtube, then keep reading. 

For one, it has an adorable main character that you can’t help but root for, who is also surprisingly clever. It may not be the most realistic movie, but that’s simply part of its charm. It’s another film set in New York that will wrap you up in the atmosphere and motivate you to set up booby-traps around your house for potential criminals.

“Santa Clause”

“Santa Clause” is one of three movies in a trilogy, all of which are currently streaming on Disney+, starring Tim Allen. I consider this a must-see for a multitude of reasons. Particularly, there is never a dull moment in the movie, with the character having to go through the comedic changes of becoming Santa Claus and gaining the responsibility of Santa Claus in the first place. Not to mention, the film highlights the importance of family and forgiveness. 

With the snowy North Pole being a main location in this movie, you can’t help but wish you had a sleigh to travel there yourself.

“The Polar Express”

This one might be a little controversial, but hear me out. While the animations in “The Polar Express” (which you can watch on Amazon Prime) might be a little off-putting at first glance, the message of the movie and the incredible “Hot Chocolate” number are only a couple of reasons why I believe this is a top-tier holiday movie. 

The beautiful message of “seeing is not believing” makes the audience sentimental with nostalgia from their own childhood. The film allows you to feel like a kid again, bringing you back to the simpler moments of your life.

“How the Grinch Stole Christmas”

In “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” (available for rent on Youtube and Amazon Prime) Jim Carrey stars as the heartless Grinch who despises Christmas and the town of Whoville. 

The live-action adaptation of Dr. Suess’ children’s book is recognizable for its fascinating sets and the unlikely friendship between Cindy Lou Who and the seemingly cruel Grinch. I believe that this is a vital movie for everyone’s Chrinstmas-binge-list because of both Jim Carrey’s excellent performance and the heartwarming, but important message of never judging a book by its cover.

Whether or not you have seen them before, watching these five Christmas movies this winter is crucial to having the best holiday season. So, grab a hot cup of cocoa, put on your favorite Christmas pajamas, bake some holiday themed cookies and turn on these made-to-perfection films.