'Tis the season, isn't it? Christmas can turn the hardest and toughest guy out there into a pile of mush, but only when watching classic Christmas movies that bring tears to our eyes.
Christmas is all about parties, friends, and family, but it's also snuggling up on the couch with your partner, a cup of hot cocoa and a Christmas movie on. So take a look on Netflix or any other VOD service you have, and get these classic amazing Christmas stories.
These moments are moments to keep. So let's begin.
The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
Back in the 1990’s, The Muppets were still a big thing. I mean they still are but as a nostalgic part of life. So when they were on a roll, they did lots of great stuff, without always thinking about revenue. Thank God for that.
The Muppet Christmas Carol is a musical dramedy (drama+comedy). It’s an adaptation of the novel A Christmas Carol, by Charles Dickens. The amazing Michael Caine portrayed Ebenezer Scrooge amazingly.
It has become a must-see, as it follows the storyline quite closely, but adds a Muppets twist.
There's More... Bill Murray is the best
Scrooged (1988)
A Bill Murray masterpiece. In every film Murray takes part in, we can feel the Murray presence in small parts along the storyline. In Scrooged, those small parts ARE the movie. Murray portrays a selfish and very cynical T.V. executive. Just like we like him.
But this time, it’s Christmas. SO Frank Cross (Murray) gets haunted by three Christmas spirits. These Christmas ghosts teach Frank the meaning of Christmas, and like always, everything comes to a happy end.
If there’s a movie you want to see that is funny and a cliché, this is the one.
Next, a true classic
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
In a pile of Christmas classics upon classics, we had to list "Miracle on 34th Street" because this movie was just too good for its generation.
The movie won many Academy Awards and proved itself worthy of a repeat on channels around the world, every Christmas.
The story starts out with a drunk Santa Clause who is supposed to appear in the Macy's Day Parade, and is followed by many characters that clash and love and collaborate ultimately resulting in what it was, a true miracle on 34th!
Next, being tough doesn't mean you can't cry...
Die Hard (1988)
“Are talking about the 1988 Bruce Willis action movie ‘Die Hard’?!?”
Yes, I am, so Yippee ki-yay m…
Anyway, New York policeman John McClane is on leave visiting his separated wife and two daughters living across the country for Christmas, when all hell breaks loose at a Christmas party at the Nakatomi tower, where his wife works. A group of terrorists takes over the building, so who you gonna call? Oh, wait… that’s another movie…
McClane takes back the building, kills the terrorists and gets the girl. Like a boss. It’s a must-see for Christmas. It really is.
Next, don't be left behind...
Home Alone (1990)
Hilarious and adorable, we present to you "Home Alone", forever a classic on our watch. "Home Alone" is about a young boy, Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin), who is accidentally left behind while his family goes on a trip to Paris.
Kevin is forced to stay home alone while his family has left him, and he goes through trials that test his ability to fight off danger.
By danger, we mean two burglars that attempt to harm him while attempting to execute their plan of home wrecking. The hilarity of the movie comes from all the funny pranks Kevin McCallister plays on these two devilish men, just to ensure his safety. With a heartwarming ending of a homecoming, the movie leaves you in tears of joy and laughter!
Next, back to the '60s
Babes in Toyland (1961)
Disney Classic "Babes in Toyland" is such a cute film, that it is a definite for you Christmas movie night marathon. Made in 1961, the film had become so popular that it made its mark on Christmas culture for the rest of the generations to experience. In the movie, the piper's son Tom is set to marry Mary Quite the Contrary to an ending of happily ever after.
However, the evil antagonist Barnaby sets out to ruin their plans and ultimately sets out to Mary while he attempts to drown Tom and sell him to the gypsies. At the end of the movie, Tom and Mary marry each other after having to go through trials and tribulations to reach this moment.
While the first-ever "Babes in Toyland" was made in 1934, it has been redone several times more, 1987 and 1997.
Next, white is a Christmas color, isn't it?
White Christmas (1954)
Talk about a classic, take a peek into "White Christmas", one beautiful romantical comedy. Those are always a favorite genre to watch while cuddling in a blanket with a cup of hot cocoa! "White Christmas" takes place in the World War II era in which two U.S. soldiers, both a Broadway entertainer and an aspiring entertainer perform for their division and provide relief for the soldiers.
The story continues on and the two soldiers transition into professional entertainers outside the army, and to their surprise, they fall in love with two sisters. The rest of the plot we shall leave for you to watch for yourselves, however, we will leave you with a final and inspirational quote from the movie: "May your days be merry and bright, and may all your Christmases be white".
Happy watching!
Next, on Christmas, even bad is funny...
Bad Santa (2003)
If you want to laugh until your tears pour a second Jordan River, then by all means, start watching "Bad Santa"! Starring Bernie Mac, Billy Bob Jones, and Tom Ritter, this movie took the Christmas spirit hostage to another level of hilariousness. Professional thieves Markus Skidmore and Willie T. Soke are both partners in true crime, pun intended.
The beginning introduces us to these two maniacs who disguise themselves in different costumes in order to rob stores. Beyond that, Willie is an alcoholic who can not control his dirty mouth when he is surrounded by children, and every other word is profanity, bound to make you laugh at the situation.
Ultimately, Willie befriends a young boy named Thurman Mermen, who becomes manipulated by Willie in order to carry out his transgressions. The plot continues to unravel to an ending that will warm your heart. This movie is definitely worth the watch, and we won't go further so not to spoil it for all of you.
Next, great stories never die...
The Polar Express (2004)
The coolest feature about "The Polar Express" is that it was filmed using human actors transformed into animation with the help of performance capture technique. What is even more fascinating is that "The Polar Express" obtained a page in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the first film to use its technique.
"The Polar Express" is based on a book written many decades ago, and is directed about different children aboard the train. From the beginning, the nameless Hero Boy departs on a train to the North Pole, and the rest of the story continues on to the end in which we realize that his faith and belief is what carried him through.
The capturing theme behind the movie is so inspiring, that even outside of Christmas it succeeds in helping us believe.
Next, can you become Santa?
The Santa Clause (1994)
Exceeding our expectations in 1994, "The Santa Clause" has remained on our A-List for almost two generations now. The movie stars Tim Allen, Judge Reinhold, and Wendy Crewson and begins with a unique plot. The story goes like this: Scott Calvin (Tim Allen) hears a noise on his roof, and ultimately runs up to confront who he thought was an intruder in the house.
Ultimately, the mystery man falls off the roof, and to Scott's surprise, it was actually Santa. Following Santa's death, Scott takes on the role and ultimately becomes Santa Clause. The plot itself is a unique and creative story for both children and adults to enjoy!
Next, some good parenting for ya'
Jingle All the Way (1996)
Now, remember seeing this funny face on the billboard and thinking to yourself, "what is this man doing and how can I see more"? "Jingle All the Way" is forever a classic that has truly won our hearts beyond belief.
Starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, it was already intriguing to see his role transition from a horror show as the terminator, to a loving father who will do anything to buy a toy for his child, even if it means dressing up as Turbo Man and going past his limits to please his son.
The theme of the movie is about putting aside your work for your children, and realizing that they exist too. Truly, "Jingle All the Way" will warm our hearts more than Christmas socks for the long run!
Next, how lovely can innocence be...
Meet Me in St. Louis (1944)
Before we dive into the plot and characters, let's state a fun fact first and foremost. If any of you are a true Christmas song lover, then you will obviously remember the classic "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas", then you would love to know that the star of the movie, Judy Garland, was the singer to release it through the film.
Anyways, the musical plot circles around an up upper-class family living in St. Louis during the summer of 1903. Esther (Judy Garland) falls in love with the boy next door who is very aloof to her existence. Once Esther properly meets her crush, John, he proceeds to diss her about her cologne, calling her out for being too strong for a woman.
After finding out her family is moving, the plot thickens and towards the end, the family never moves, to Esther's delight. The next fun fact about this movie is that the beautiful Christmas songs became hits through the releases and features in the film!
Next, love is best when it's Christmas.
Love Actually (2003)
One of the most fun movies to devour on Christmas is "Love Actually". The movie itself stars fan favorites Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, Keira Knightly, Liam Neeson, and many more actors. The best characteristic of the movie is that there are ten plots that somehow tangle themselves into one.
If you watch the movie in full, you'll become intrigued by the way the writers executed the plots perfectly into a hit of a movie. There are many other movies like this based during different holidays and events, but this one is our favorite out of all of them. Enjoy!
Next, laughing is good for your health
Elf (2003)
Everybody knows it: Will Ferrell movies are always geniuses because Will himself is a pure genius. Seeing that the movie stars Will Ferrell, James Caan, and Zoey Deschanel, we know automatically it is going to a movie watched on repeat during a Christmas night.
"Elf" surrounds one of the Elves (Will Ferrell) discovering his human roots and embarking on a journey to find his biological father. The Elf goes down to New York City in search, and learns that he has to accustom himself to human nature and behavior.
Overall, the film takes you through comedy scenes that will stick in your mind, and ultimately the plot ends with a joyful Christmas ending.
Next, Dr. Seuss would love it.
How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Whenever you watch a movie starring Jim Carrey, it almost always guaranteed that you will laugh non-stop until your belly aches of joy.
This absolute of a masterpiece takes place in Whoville, where everyone is intoxicated by Christmas spirit, while the Grinch hates the holiday with all of his bones. After an encounter with the horrific Grinch, young little Cindy Lou (Taylor Momsen) decides to delve into his story and try and get to the root of why he is such a grinch.
The movie follows the pain of the Grinch, the shallowness of Whoville, and the curiosity and kindness of children. What more could you ask for when you're relaxing with a glass of wine at night under the mistletoe, watching this precious film?
Next, it sure is a wonderful life
It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
Looking into "It's a Wonderful Life", you see tragedy and triumph. After many failed attempts at being happy with his life, George Bailey (James Stewart) contemplates what life would be like if he wasn't around, and how he could ultimately kill himself.
On Christmas Eve, a guardian angel shows up to George, and decides to show him all of the people he has inspired throughout his life. The angel then shows George what life would be like if he had never existed, and George begins to see things in fear and sadness, yet takes on this perspective.
Ultimately, George becomes distraught by not existing, and towards the end, he anxiously kneels and begs the angel to give him back his existence. This movie is so heartwarming, that your heart could light the fire in the fireplace and ready the warmth for Santa!
Next, friends will be friends
Just Friends (2005)
"Just Friends" is probably one of the cutest, heartwarming films to make the list. The movie stars such A-list actors such as Ryan Reynolds, Amy Smart, and a fan favorite Anna Farris.
It all starts off with a young, gentle giant Chris Brander (Ryan Reynolds) who is ultimately in love with the popular Jamie Palamino (Amy Smart). From the beginning, you see that Jamie's crush feelings are unreciprocated towards Chris, and he becomes truly upset after being humiliated.
Fast forward ten years to where Chris is this gorgeous hunk, and Jamie never changed a bit, of course in looks. Ultimately he tries to win her over, but finds out she's in a relationship that means the world to her. Check it this movie and see if they stop being "just friends", because most movies have a happy ending.
Next, bad again...
Bad Santa 2 (2016)
And so the trouble comes back again, this time doubled and filled with laughs galore! This time, the plot circles around Willie Soke's unfortunate ending and another web of betrayals, even by his mother and once again, his old partner in crime Markus. Ultimately, revenge is sweet and Willie has his fair share.
You know you want to watch this film, over and over again because everyone could use a fair share of dirty comedy!
Next, can Santa love?
The Santa Clause 2 (2002)
Ladies and gentlemen, we present to you yet another Santa Clause movie, this time an upgraded sequel. In this new and twisted plot, the new Santa (Tim Allen), finds himself to be forced into a marriage with the other woman, Mrs. Clause, having forgotten about his new life.
Santa is told that he must marry Mrs. Clause, or all of Christmas will die away, leaving its fate at his fingertips. The second movie is more of a love story that surrounds the stresses that keep coming, and this time the thrill of wanting to know what happens next will have you glued to your couch!
Next, the 80's produced some funny stuff.
Ernest Saves Christmas (1988)
Have yourself a holy, jolly movie marathon and include "Ernest Saves Christmas", because this 80's Christmas comedy will not fail you ever, we promise!
The movie stars the amazing actor, Jim Varney and he executes the character of Ernest P. Warell perfectly.
In a short summary, "Ernest Saves Christmas" is a Christmas comedy surrounding the life of Ernest and his ultimate dangerous pathway with Santa Clause. If you're looking for an old comedy to sip hot cocoa to, this is definitely worth your time!
Next, some Christmas magic happening there...
A Christmas Carol (2009 )
"A Christmas Carol" stars our favorite, once again, Jim Carrey. The way the movie was made is very similar to "The Polar Express" however it is slightly different.
Either way, the imagery is fascinating and the plot is filled nostalgic as it is based on the original story by Charles Dickens. The plot follows Scrooge, who is absolutely negative about Christmas. One day, he is visited by the Ghost of Christmas Past, then the Ghost of Christmas present, followed by the Ghost of the Future, in which each visit shows him perspectives of his heartbreaking life.
The rest of this summary is not going to reveal what happens at the end, for this is up to you to watch and see whether he changes, or does not.
Next, truly a classic.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Last but not least, we present to you "The Nightmare Before Christmas", a beautiful Tim Burton classic. The story plot follows Jack Skellington from Halloween Town, and his discovery and desire to celebrate Christmas from Christmas Town.
Throughout the movie, you will see the trouble that comes from being a skeleton from Halloween, celebrating the spirit of Christmas as horrors begin to unravel and traumatize the citizens of Christmas Town. Overall, this movie was saved for last because throughout all the comedies and old-time favorites, "The Nightmare Before Christmas" will go down in history as one of the spookiest, yet intriguing films to have touched the world of film.
Next, it's not always white on Christmas.
Black Christmas (1974)
"Black Christmas" stars Olivia Hussey, Keir Dullea, and Margot Kidder and is truly a horrific yet beautifully written movie. We decided to throw in a Thriller movie into the mix of all the other lovely, lighthearted films. "Black Christmas" is less of a movie about demons and ghosts, but more about a stalker and a murder in the attic.
One character, Janice, is reported missing after disclosing with her boyfriend that she is pregnant and wants to get an abortion due to the lack of desire to be a mother. Following this, the main protagonist Jess keeps receiving strange phone calls and begins to find discover different dead bodies; the rest is all spoilers to we shall finish the description here.
We will say however, the whole movie is a murder mystery worth the curiosity and investment.