Honorable Mentions
A Christmas Story.
A Charlie Brown Christmas.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (The Original).
Top 5 of All time
No. 5-Scrooged (1988)
-Perhaps an unexpected pick coming in at the five spot, but Scrooged proves to be what I find to be an excellent movie. Taking a look into the life of a greedy, selfish, and unkind TV executive in Frank Cross portrayed by Bill Murray; the movie recounts the same Christmas Carol story but with a more modern and somewhat cynical twist. What I love about this movie is how realistic it feels. The film very much feels grounded in reality with the way of how a mean spirited person in power might act and the character development especially near the end of the movie is really impressive with Frank Cross turning around his actions and making the people who love him happy at last.
No. 4-Elf (2003)
-One of the greatest actors of our generation, Will Ferrell, carries this movie to make it an instant classic. The movie is directed by one of my favorite actors and directors in Jon Favreau as well. What makes this movie so special is Ferrell’s comedic timing paired with an intriguing story that makes for a fun Christmas movie.
No. 3-Home Alone (1990)
-Not much to say here because this movie brings about some classic Christmas nostalgia. When Kevin McCallister is forgotten as his family goes to Paris, he must defend the house against robbers. The fast-paced and comedic style of the movie makes it quite entertaining.
No. 2-Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
-Second only to “It’s a Wonderful Life” this movie is emotional, exciting, and warm. The movie stars the real Santa Claus who is filling in for an intoxicated Santa at the Thanksgiving Day Parade. What makes this movie especially compelling is the case for whether or not this man is Santa Claus or just insane. The ending of the film is especially well done.
No. 1-It’s a Wonderful Life-(1946)
-Back to back movies in the 1940s take the top spots for my best Christmas movies. “It’s a Wonderful Life” is easily the best Christmas movie I’ve ever watched and perhaps one of the best films ever made. The plot centered around George Bailey is highly engaging. When Bailey wishes he hadn’t been born, an angel named Clarence shows him all the good that would cease to exist in the world. The movie has a great story and a great message.
