There’s something reassuring and cosy about snuggling up with a
box of choccies and watching a Christmas film with loved ones.
It can be an old favourite you know word for word, or a classic
that you’ve never managed to see before. As long as it’s feelgood with a happy
ending, then you’re on to a good thing.
Here’s a list of some of the best festive films of all time. How
many have you seen?
Elf
Will Ferrell steals the show as Buddy, a man-child in tights who
was raised among elves at the North Pole. When Buddy heads to New York to find
his biological father, he’s like a kid in a sweet shop. All sorts of
shenanigans follow in this silly, charming caper.
Home Alone
When Kevin McCallister’s (useless) parents leave him home alone
while they jet off to Paris, a series of comic escapades ensue. Eight-year-old
Kevin revels in his new-found freedom until two hapless burglars try to target
the property. Can Kevin outsmart the bad guys? Will his parents make it back?
And why are American houses so very, very big? A good watch for all the family.
It’s a Wonderful Life
Released in 1946, this movie is often lauded as the best
Christmas film of all time. James Stewart plays a small-town businessman ready
to give up on life until a guardian angel changes his mind. The film’s emphasis
on community values still resonates today.
Miracle on 34th Street
Another black and white classic, Miracle on 34th Street is a gentle tale about a kind gent called
Kris Kringle, who plays Santa in Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade. When he starts
telling Macy’s customers and staff that he really is Santa, Mr Kringle’s claims
and sanity are tested in court.
The Muppet Christmas Carol
Michael Caine is a British film legend, but his performance in
this retelling of Charles Dickens’s novel is undoubtedly his best. He plays it
straight as grumpy Scrooge while Kermit, Piggy and the rest of the Muppet gang
ham it up in Victorian costumes. And if your heart doesn’t melt at the sight of
Robin the Frog as Tiny Tim with his little wooden crutch, then we need to talk.
The Snowman
This perennial favourite tells the story of a small boy who
makes a snowman in his back garden, which then comes to life. There’s something
about the charming illustrations of Raymond Briggs, combined with the haunting
soundtrack, that makes this animation quite magical.
Tell us what you’ll be watching
during the festive season.