I love the week after Christmas and before New Year’s Day! Hubster is usually home and the good will of the holiday season is lingering. Every year looks a little bit different, but one thing it always includes? Movies!
Contemporary or nostalgic, color or black and white, serious theme or slapstick comedy. We love them all!
We have a tradition of watching It’s a Wonderful Life at least once during the holiday season. My heart never fails to be touched when ol’ George finally “gets it.” The film celebrates its 75th birthday this year, so even if you’ve seen it a dozen times, you have to take the time to watch it again. Its 75th birthday–come on! And to think that it wasn’t a hit when it came out.
Just goes to show that time will tell. Don’t be a hasty judge of anyone or anything. (free holiday advice)
My Top Ten Holiday Movies of All Time
10. The Man Who Invented Christmas
9. Die Hard (Yes, it is so a holiday movie!)
8. The Bishop’s Wife
7. Miracle on 34th Street
6. A Christmas Carol (the 1951 version featuring Alastair Sim)
5. Christmas Vacation
4. Home Alone
3. Elf
2. White Christmas (not to be confused with Holiday Inn, which is the movie that brings us the song White Christmas.)
1. It’s a Wonderful Life
More Movies You Just Can’t Miss…
These next two movies belong in a class all their own! The Chosen is a free streaming show you can watch on YouTube. It’s a down-to-earth depiction of Jesus and his ministry. This Christmas special, The Messengers, was shown in select theaters in early December, but I didn’t get to see it. Thankfully, it will eventually be available on the free streaming option.
One for the Kids that You’ll Love, too!
The Star is an animated version of the Nativity story. It features the voices of Kristin Chenewith, Kelly Clarkson, Oprah Winfrey, Tyler Perry, Tracy Morgan, and Patricia Heaton among others. You can watch it on Netflix or buy your own copy here. Great quality! It’s considered a Christian comedy. You’ll love it!
That Left Me Confused…
I spent way too long on this post, weighing the merits of each movie and trying to come up with the proper order! I’ve probably completely forgotten some and have faulty memories of others.
Still, that’s a pretty good list! Pop some popcorn, snuggle up with the softest blanket you have, and turn out all the lights except the Christmas tree’s. That’s what I’m talking about! Great, yes?
What are your favorite holiday movies?
Let me know in the comments! Happy watching!
Leslie Watkins
I’m never finished with Christmas movies…may they just linger a bit longer…
Tracey Buchanan
I’m ALWAYS moved by Its a Wonderful Life! Love the joy and hope in all Christmas movies!