Relax With a Classic Christmas Movie
Are you like many other folks who are still in the midst of Christmas shopping, decorating, sending greeting cards, baking cookies, assembling toys, or putting up the tree? As you get caught up in the festivities of the season, you may feel yourself becoming a little overwhelmed at times.
Why not take a break and relax with a classic Christmas movie? It’s a great way to remain in the Christmas spirit while still taking a breather from all the seasonal activities.
We’ve assembled a collection of holiday favorites to help you unwind during this hectic season – enjoy them by yourself or with friends and family.
Did any of your favorites make our list?
Animated
Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer (1964)
Everyone knows the story of Rudolph, the reindeer who doesn’t quite fit in, at least at first. In this classic rendition of the story, join Rudolph and his friends as they look for a place that will accept them.
A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
This 1965 animated classic is based on the Peanuts comic strip by Charles M. Schulz. It was originally commissioned and sponsored by The Coca-Cola Company. It has been an annual broadcast in the U.S. ever since its debut, aired traditionally during the Christmas season. It has also been honored with both an Emmy and a Peabody Award.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966)
This Dr. Seuss tale has been a Christmas favorite ever since it was first made into a movie. Though the 2000 re-make features live actors and improved technology, there’s just something special about this classic animated short.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
This artistic foray into the holidays is a Halloween and Christmas favorite, bringing together fans of both holidays for a stop-motion animated, musical experience.
The Polar Express (2004)
The Polar Express is a 3D computer-animated musical fantasy based on the 1985 children’s book which shares the same name. It grossed $309 million worldwide when it was released. The 2006 Guinness World Book of Records listed it as the first all-digital capture film.
Comedy/Family
A Christmas Story (1983)
A Christmas Story is a traditional holiday classic that follows young Ralphie on his journey to convince everyone that a Red Ryder B.B. gun would be the ultimate, perfect Christmas gift for him.
Scrooged (1988)
Scrooged is a re-make of the classic story A Christmas Carol. In this version, “Scrooge” is a selfish TV executive, played by Bill Murray, who is haunted by three spirits on Christmas Eve.
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
The Griswold family is back and attempting a big family Christmas. With this comedy classic, you can laugh along as things don’t work out quite as planned.
Home Alone (1990)
Eight-year-old Kevin is accidentally left behind as his family leaves for Christmas vacation. While home alone, it’s up to him to protect himself and his home from a pair of burglars.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Starring Jim Carrey as the Grinch, this remake adds a lot of humor to the classic. You’ll have a lot of laughs and still walk away filled with Christmas spirit.
Elf (2003)
In a case of hilarious mistaken identity, Will Ferrell plays a man raised as an elf in the North Pole who is on a search for his true identity.
Drama/Family
A Christmas Carol (numerous versions)
A Christmas Carol is a novella by Charles Dickens. It was first published in 1843. It premiered as a 1935 British fantasy film called Scrooge. An American film adaptation, named A Christmas Carol, was released in 1938. There have been several remakes and adaptations released since. Whether you’re looking for live actors, animation, or Muppets, you’re sure to find a version, or two, your whole family will love.
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
This 1946 Christmas comedy-drama is based on the short story “The Greatest Gift” written by Philip Van Doren Stern. Considered one of the most loved films in American cinema, this classic has become a viewing tradition during the Christmas season. Follow George Bailey as his guardian angel intervenes to show his positive impact on those around them and change his mind about ending his life on Christmas Eve.
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
In this Christmas classic, you’ll fall in love with Kris Kringle and go on an adventure filled with miracles as a little girl sets out to prove Santa Claus is real.
Musical
White Christmas (1954)
Singing and dancing, plus romance, make this classic an integral part of any Christmas movie marathon. Enjoy the antics as the group teams up to save a failing Vermont Inn.
Babes in Toyland (1961)
Follow along on this Mother Goose adventure as Tom Piper and Mary Quite Contrary join other Mother Goose characters to find each other in Toyland.
This list is by no means comprehensive as there are so many good Christmas movies to choose from. If you’re stuck on what to watch though, you’ll likely find a few options to get you started on this list.