Top 5: Holiday Movies
The holiday season is known as “the most wonderful time of the year” for a reason. It’s the time for gift-giving, cookie making and of course, holiday movies. Whether you don’t know what movies to watch or you’re looking to compare your ranking to this one, I’ll be ranking the best movies to watch this holiday season.
Number 5: “A Christmas Story”
We’re starting off strong with the sweet story of Ralphie. This one is too cute not to enjoy. This movie makes me appreciate the tradition and family time that comes with Christmas. I love the simplicity that the Parker family brings and the memorable moments seen throughout the film. To me, this movie is the perfect representation of what a childhood during the festive season is.
Number 4: “Love Actually”
Some may find it sappy, but I love a good romance movie, especially during the holidays. I’m sure many others do as well. It’s the time of the year to surround yourself with those you love, and “Love Actually” shows this through tons of different characters’ stories. The sweetest story is told through the lives of 16 people, whose paths cross to create one of the most amusing, charming and sweet holiday movies of our time.
Number 3: “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (Live action)
Whether it’s the original cartoon or the live-action or the new cartoon, we can all agree that the Grinch is a holiday classic. It’s a never-fail Christmas specialty that was so good that they had to make three. The Grinch makes me think of my childhood and look past the gifts, feasts and charades of Christmas. For me, the best part is seeing my friends and family … and maybe the food a little bit. The Grinch is a movie that reflects this so well, and for that reason, it’s one of my favorites.
Number 2: “Home Alone”
Who doesn’t enjoy the mischievous plotting of Kevin McCallister? This movie is full of laughs and never fails to make holiday movie nights interesting. This movie will always be considered a classic. The witty lines never get old and Kevin’s master plan will forever be famous. For me, this movie is a must-watch during winter break, as I’m sure it is for many others.
Number 1: “Elf”
Next up is everyone’s favorite, the iconic “Elf”. Growing up, this was the movie I waited to watch all Christmas season. It’s another classic and a movie that never fails to make me laugh. The spirit and light-hearted feeling of this movie is contagious. Buddy the Elf, Walter Hobbs, Jovi; all these characters make this movie irresistible and, in my opinion, the best holiday movie to watch.
Honorable Mention: “A Charlie Brown Christmas”
While it might not be everyone’s favorite, it’s a classic. There’s a deep level of comfort Charlie Brown and his friends bring, especially during the holiday season. It’s simple, sweet and a perfect representation of what the holidays should be: a chance to spend time with those you love.
Honorable Mention: “Polar Express”
This movie brings back memories of third grade just before Christmas break, huddled with your classmates and watching the train make its way to the North Pole just before the early dismissal. It’s a movie that never fails to bring back the holiday memories of your childhood. I know some think it’s irrelevant and boring, but you can’t lie, there’s something magical about the Polar Express and its journey to the North Pole. To any looking to visit their past this winter break and keep up with tradition, this movie must be on your list.
These are just some of the movies that make the holidays feel more merry to me. As long as it’s still December, it’s never too late to watch a holiday movie, so now’s your time. Grab your blanket and hot cocoa, get on the coach and start your marathon!
