During this busy time of year, one of the best ways to lift your spirit and calm your mind is to relax with a classic Christmas movie. These holiday favorites can fill us with nostalgia as we remember the first time we ever viewed them years ago. So grab your popcorn and hot cocoa as we reminisce about some of the best Christmas movies of all time. Whatever your taste in movies may be, there’s sure to be a Christmas classic that will put a smile on your face (even if you’re a grinch, there are movies tailored to your taste!).
No matter what your taste in movies may be, there’s sure to be a Christmas classic that will put a smile on your face.
Table of Contents
Golden Oldies
Perhaps no other classic Christmas movie so encapsulates the hope and joy of the holiday season quite as well as this timeless film starring James Stewart and Donna Reed. As the movie begins, protagonist George Bailey finds himself facing a desperate situation one fateful Christmas Eve. When he’s just about to end it all, Divine intervention takes place as Clarence, the lovable angel-in-training played by Henry Travers, is sent to save George and earn his wings. He takes George on a journey to see what life would have been like in the small town of Bedford Falls if he had never been born. This film is a powerful reminder of the important impact each life can make. It’s heartwarming message will spread Christmas joy to your heart.
After World War II, Bob Wallace (Bing Crosby) and Phil Davis (Danny Kaye) become a top entertainment duo. They pair up with a sensational sister act, The Haynes sisters, played Rosemary Clooney and Vera Ellen, for some magical holiday musical numbers. The foursome end up at a lodge in Vermont looking to brighten the spirits and business prospects of the lodge owner, Wallace and Davis’ former Major General Thomas J. Waverly. Intermingled in the plan to help save the Major General’s business is a love story between Wallace, Davis, and the two Haynes sisters that has plenty of twists and turns. This delightful film will leave you dreaming of a white Christmas.
Hilarious Hits
Viewers of all ages immediately fell in love with Ralphie Parker, played by Peter Billingsley, and his nutty Midwestern family in this hysterical holiday classic. This film chronicles the weeks leading up to Christmas wherein 9-year-old Ralphie does everything possible to try and ensure he will receive a Red Ryder Range 200 Shot BB gun for Christmas. From double-dog dares, to his dad’s “Fra-gee-lee” bowling award, to receiving the most embarrassing homemade gift ever created, you can join Ralphie on his quest for the coveted BB gun.
Join the Griswold family
for another adventure as Clark attempts to have the best Christmas light display in the neighborhood. Feeling in the Christmas spirit, Clark, played by Chevy Chase, invites both he and his wife’s parents to their home for the holidays. What he wasn’t expecting was his cousin and her uncouth husband Eddie and their two kids to show up, along with their trailer. Things go from bad to worse for Clark as his light display malfunctions, his tree gets burned up, his turkey is ruined, and his boss replaces his Christmas bonus with a jelly club membership.
Family Fun
In this family Christmas classic, Kevin McCallister, played by Macaulay Culkin, is accidentally left behind when his family leaves for Christmas vacation in Paris. He enjoys his time alone in style, while fending off a couple of not-too-bright burglars that keep trying to break into the house. This is a great movie to watch with a house full of friends and family, or when you’re home alone for the evening.
Kermit, Miss Piggy, and the rest of the Muppet crew bring the classic Charles Dickens story to life. Filled with catchy songs, kids will love seeing their unforgettable Muppet friends help Scrooge, played by Michael Caine, discover the true meaning of Christmas.