The best way to get an early start on the holiday spirit this December is to revisit those classic Christmas movies that have left a cinematic mark and won our hearts. This list brings you a bit of typical Christmas nostalgia, no doubt, but these films are also guaranteed to ignite the hope and joy of the holidays.
So don’t wait too long, this is the perfect time of year to cuddle up on the couch and enjoy your favorite characters in the snow.
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
I didn’t watch this lovely Christmas movie until I got to college, but from the first time I saw it, it became one of my favorites. Since then, I have re-watched it on at least three more occasions, even having the opportunity to enjoy it in a movie theater.
This touching story, directed by Frank Capra and starring James Stewart, tackles themes of hope, family and the true value of life on a Christmas night. Over the years it has become a true cult film, included in many lists of the 100 best films in history.
Home Alone (1990)
Kevin McCallister (played by Macaulay Culkin) has left many memorable moments for all of us who grew up in the 1990s. This Christmas comedy directed by Chris Columbus follows a boy who is accidentally left home alone during Christmas and must fend off burglars who try to break into his home.
The funny movie has become a modern classic that many viewers watch over and over again — even Macaulay Culkin has not forgotten, he made a commercial a few years ago portraying Kevin again.
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
This is the movie that made everyone believe in Santa Claus, whether you watch the original (directed by George Seaton and winner of three Oscars) or the 1994 remake.
With this sweet story, that follows an old man who becomes Macy’s Santa Claus and must prove in court that he is the real deal, you can cheer up difficult days and believe in magic again. It’s certainly a holiday favorite of millions.
The Polar Express (2004)
Based on the children’s book of the same name written by Chris Van Allsburg, this animated film has a timeless message about faith, friendship and the Christmas spirit.
The plot revolves around a young boy who begins to doubt the existence of Santa Claus and embarks on an adventure on a magical train bound for the North Pole.
In addition to the charming story that’s bound to make you a believer again, even when the magic seems to fade away, it also has a unique and impressive visual style that has made a lasting impact on Christmas cinema.
Love Actually (2003)
This is one of my favorite movies and a must-see every December. And I’m not the only one who thinks so! Many viewers consider it a tradition during the Christmas season.
This romantic comedy is set in the days before Christmas with an ensemble cast that includes Colin Firth, Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant, Alan Rickman, Rowan Atkinson, Bill Nighy, Keira Knightley, Laura Linney and Liam Neeson.
The stories of love, friendship and heartbreak are intertwined with an unbeatable soundtrack, making the music part of the plot. A few years ago, the actors reunited to make a short film about the lives of these characters in the present day and of course left fans waiting for a longer sequel.
A Christmas Carol (1984)
This story, based on the famous novel by Charles Dickens (published in 1843), has been adapted several times. The 1984 version is especially notable for capturing the complete essence of Ebenezer Scrooge and his transformation during Christmas Eve.
The film is timeless and highlights the values of generosity, love, friendship and redemption, conveying a message about the consequences of actions and the possibility of change.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Tim Burton fused Halloween and Christmas through this film, creating something truly unique with the character design.
Directed by Henry Selick, this stop-motion animated film stands out for a distinctive visual style and a captivating gothic aesthetic. The story follows Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, who finds himself exhausted from celebrating Halloween and makes the decision to kidnap Santa Claus to assume his role.
Now, in honor of the thirtieth anniversary of its release, many theaters around the world have announced that they will be screening this fascinating film during the 2023 season.
Image: Pixabay