When it comes to the holiday season, the one thing we can all count on are amazing movies. And thankfully we have plenty of Christmas movies to choose from. Here are our top 25.
The holidays might be about goodwill to all and being grateful for what we have, but there is a lot more to this season of giving than just the way we feel. From gift giving to entertainment, the holiday season is packed with ways we celebrate, and this includes watching the perfect Christmas movies.
There are some movies that sit as the ultimate classics of the season, while others are less appreciated, and yet still worthy of a watch. And while there are Christmas movies we always expect to see on compilation lists featuring top watches of the season, with our list of 25 must watch movies, we tried to change it up a bit.
Sure, this list includes some of the most iconic Christmas movies ever released, but there are also some on this list that deserve so much more love than they seem to get. After all, just because a movie was not released in theaters, that doesn’t mean it isn’t worthy of our attention.
Besides, there are some new holiday movies streaming now that actually are as much fun as we could have hoped for. And of course, there are plenty of those feel good movies as well.
Basically this is a list that encompasses all aspects of the holiday season, from the humor and joy to the heartwarming emotions and touching moments. We all have our favorites, and perhaps with this list of Christmas movies, you will find something new to fall in love with this season.
25. Home Alone
You might be wondering why one of the more iconic Christmas movies is coming in at number 25 on our list. And while I would be remiss if I left this movie off the list entirely, I admit to this one not being an absolute favorite.
Home Alone is definitely an enjoyable watch, with plenty of humor and even a sense of the craziness of the holidays. And sure I watch this movie every once in a while, but for me I always question how a parent can forget their child at home (even in the craziness of the season). Let’s not even go into the fact that there was a sequel where it happened again.
For me Home Alone is more of a comedy of errors than a feel-good Christmas movie. So, alas, this one is relegated to the back of the pack in this list of the best movies for the holiday season. (Honestly, if it wasn’t a favorite for so many, as well as one I have been known to watch more than once, it might have been left off the top 25 list.)
While I know plenty of people who love this movie and watch it on repeat, this is one of those films I could forget to watch and be okay with. And that is ultimately the reason that Home Alone comes in at 25, because even though it is a fun watch every few years, it’s not the ultimate expression of Christmas fun and joy I would hope for in my holiday movie watching experience.
24. A Christmas Story
Don’t hate me, but A Christmas Story is another one of those movies I don’t love. In fact, if it wouldn’t get me banned from my cousin’s Christmas list, I might have ditched this one too.
Growing up, I remember the day when this movie would play on a 24 hour loop. My cousin would keep the channel it was playing on up on the TV the entire 24 hours (seriously even while she was sleeping). It got to a point where I thought I could quote this movie.
So, while I understand why it is typically a favorite for many people, in my mind this is simply not the ultimate Christmas movie (even if they try to be with a name like A Christmas Story). Considering how many times I have actually watched this movie (way more than I ever wanted), it has to make our top 25 Christmas movies list. After all, if you have ever watched a movie so much that you know full scenes and quotes, it should probably make a top anything list.
Perhaps the only thing I truly love about this movie is the grand prize leg lamp that has become so iconic that it pops up in stores every Christmas since this movie first debuted. I have seen the leg lamp as part of more decoration displays and gift idea lists than I ever thought possible. And it is that kind of iconic imagery that really does give this movie the boost it needs to be a must watch Christmas movie… at least once.
23. Elf
Okay, this one was hard to rate within the top 25 for me. I thought about putting this one higher, but at the same time, it was hard to push down other movies for this one. As someone who is not a fan of one of the key actors in the movie, Elf doesn’t get quite as much love from me as I want to give it.
However, at the same time, I can’t remember a single year since this movie was released that I haven’t watched it at least once.
Elf has plenty of ridiculous moments (which work within the story), as well as feel-good moments, and even those moments we expect from a holiday offering. Basically, it feels like this movie has it all in many ways.
We get music and singing, which is always a bonus in a Christmas movie. We get some veteran actors and actresses who are able to embody their characters. And of course, we get the magic of forgiveness and love, as well as a Santa sighting or two.
In many ways, Elf is a great Christmas movie. But for me, it’s just not a favorite, which leaves it lower on the list than some of the other great movies of the season. Of course, it does get a boost thanks to the fact that we get to see some classic animated characters we did not expect to see gracing the screen (the Narwhal anyone?).
22. Scrooged
Sometimes we forget that comedy movies are just as important as any other Christmas movie, and Scrooged definitely comes in as a great holiday offering with plenty of humor, as well as a lesson or two. Based off of the Charles Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol, Scrooged stars Bill Murray as the titular Scrooge, being a stingy boss with a penchant for firing people (whether fairly or not).
Not only is this a Christmas movie, it is also a dark comedy, which makes it feel like a unique choice for being a top 25 movie for the holiday season. However, there is something so captivating about Murray, that he makes any film you watch enjoyable.
Scrooged is a modern retelling of a classic tale, and that certainly helps add to its appeal. Of course, with a cast that includes Bobcat Goldthwait, Alfre Woodard, and John Forsythe, this movie delivers on so many levels.
It may not feel like your typical choice for best holiday movie, but it delivers and that’s what matters. And yes, I admit that Bill Murray is definitely a major reason why I loved this movie, because he plays a bad guy perfectly, even as he helps deliver the comedy too.
A Christmas Carol has long been a story of redemption, and even Scrooged works to deliver that theme, even if it does it in a fresh way (or at least fresh for when it debuted).
21. Joyeux Noël
If you haven’t heard of Joyeux Noël, then you are missing out on a stunning film that showcases humanity at its very best in the worst situation. Set during World War I, this movie is a fictional account of an actual event that took place around Christmas time.
This film is easily an epic war film, but with a beautiful story of Christmas and the reason for the season. In December of 1914, an opera singer was sent to the front lines of the war to perform for the troops in an effort to offer comfort and hope to the troops.
Joyeux Noël brings people together in unity over a common shared interest – Christmas. And the beauty of this film is the fact that even as it is the story of war, it shines a spotlight on humanity and our common bonds. Whether French, German, or British, every single man on the battlefield has a family, dreams, and a life that they left behind in order to fight for their country.
While this movie may not be for everyone, it should definitely appeal to anyone who loves an epic story with drama, heartfelt emotion and the common bonds of Christmas. Joyeux Noël is a beautifully told story that delivers sentimentality and poignant moments of the human condition. Considering even the trailer is enough to get me tearing up, it just feels like this is the kind of movie that deserves its moment in the spotlight.
For me, this movie could easily be higher on this list, but it is definitely a more obscure choice for some people, which is why it lands at number 21 on this list.
20. The Santa Clause
So what happens when you basically break Santa Claus? Well, if you are watching The Santa Clause, then Tim Allen has to take on the job and finish the Christmas deliveries.
Perhaps what makes The Santa Clause a great Christmas movie is the fact that it is as much a family film, as it is a holiday offering. This story delivers everything from drama to comedy, and of course all the Christmas magic we could have hoped for.
Not only is this movie the start of a solid series, but we get to watch the evolution of Santa Claus from an everyday businessman to the leader of the North Pole. And seriously how cool is that? We literally watch Tim Allen gain a ton of weight just so he can be Santa.
Beyond watching the man’s transformation, there are certain moments that feel perfect in this movie, especially when young children come up to him in order to tell him their wishes. After all, they know who he is, even if he can’t come to terms with it (right away).
This is a film that gives us the holiday spirit we crave from a good Christmas movie, and that we sometimes struggle to find. And while it may not be the most in-depth storyline ever, it still draws you in and leaves you laughing, crying, and of course smiling with joy. What more can you ask for really?
19. White Christmas
Originally released in 1954, White Christmas is a true classic holiday movie. And the fact that it stars legendary performers such as Rosemary Clooney and Bing Crosby, means that it is a must watch at least once.
However, what makes White Christmas one of my favorite Christmas movies is the fact that it combines a beautiful story (it may seem syrupy for a lack of a better word, but it is the holidays) and amazing songs. And it feels like the best Christmas movies really do give us the best holiday songs, so if the movie I am watching features music I am in.
And speaking of music in movies, it is probably good to remind people that this particular film really is more of a musical than anything else. This means that there are more than just a few great songs throughout the film, but at the same time, it is so much more than just the typical movie musical.
This movie gives us a rural inn that needs help, former World War II soldiers trying to move on with their lives, and a hint of romance and holiday magic. And perhaps that is what makes this such a classic film – the fact that it delivers on what the holidays are all about, magic, love, and hope.
White Christmas is the kind of classic film that is a feel good movie all around. And it’s definitely one that deserves to be watched at least once during the holiday season.
18. Love Actually
For some people, Love Actually can be a hard movie to follow considering it tells nine individual stories that are all interconnected. The one thing that truly connects all of the stories being told in this film is love (of course).
As a British romantic-comedy, Love Actually not only delivers some wonderful stories of love and romance, but also delivers charming one-liners and bits of humor that leave you wanting more. And while some of these stories are perhaps not as happy as others, there are deep emotions that are explored in every single tale.
Love Actually reminds us that many of our stories connect in some way, and around the holidays, we can miss the most obvious things or find new love and hope. The magic of the season is always there in some way and it is also what makes this film so beautiful.
While there are some people who might find this movie hard to follow or not the best in terms of being a romantic film, it really does deliver in so many ways. And if you give it a chance and really pay attention to each of the individual stories being told, it is amazing what you end up coming away with.
For me, Love Actually is the kind of anthology film that delivers so much more than just the usual cheer and gift giving of a Christmas movie. And that’s why even if it isn’t the holidays, I can turn this film on, pour a cup of hot chocolate, and dive right in.
17. Bad Santa
When it comes to great Christmas movies, Bad Santa might not be at the top of your list. In fact, it may not be on your list at all. Except, at least in my mind, there is a lot to love about this dark comedy movie, including Billy Bob Thornton’s performance, and the fact that it was John Ritter’s final live-action movie before his death (he did feature in two animated movies following this one).
While Bad Santa tells the story of two thieves, one of whom even portrays Santa Claus himself, it’s hard to think of this movie as a great holiday offering. And yet, with the help of not only the comedy, but also the fact that Thornton’s character is actually able to be more than just a degenerate, we end up getting a story of redemption.
The thing about Bad Santa is that if you go into watching it knowing that it is a dark comedy with a lot of vulgarity and bad behavior, you end up enjoying it more than if you expect Christmas cheer and goodwill towards all. The fact that it also shows a young boy learning how to defend himself against bullies and finding a new family of sorts certainly helps push it over into being an enjoyable holiday watch.
Are there moments that leave you wondering why this is considered a Christmas movie? Of course there are. But at the same time, it also delivers all the things that a good holiday film should – humor, excitement, and redemption. (And while the sequel, Bad Santa 2, is not included in this list of movies to watch, it is still worth an honorable mention.)
16. A Bad Moms Christmas
First, I have to say that if you have not watched Bad Moms, then you need to fix that first. If you have seen that one, then you can’t miss A Bad Moms Christmas. As far as sequels go, this one is a hysterical romp that features even more bad behavior and humor. And yet, it is not so much about bad behavior, as it is moms finally admitting that they are tired of being unappreciated and expected to do everything for everyone.
In A Bad Moms Christmas, we get to see the main moms from the original film with their own moms. And not only are there shenanigans, but we also get to see relationships being fixed, built up, and even made stronger. Of course, before we can get to that point, we also see relationships that are falling apart, frayed, and basically just generally a mess.
We can all relate to the stress of the holidays and even problems with the relationships we have with members of our family. And that is what makes A Bad Moms Christmas so great. It really is a reflection of real people, so it feels like it could actually be our lives.
The fact that this is also a comedy, means that even as the movie feels like it could be real life, it still makes us laugh. In fact, this is the kind of movie that really does deliver on the promise of being a Christmas movie since it gives us all the feels, as we laugh, cry, and even want to shake a person or two.
This movie is so much fun to watch, that even if it isn’t Christmas, it is worth a watch or two.
15. The Man Who Invented Christmas
Have you ever wondered about what inspired Charles Dickens to create A Christmas Carol? If the answer is yes, then The Man Who Invented Christmas is the movie for you. Not only do you get to see what Dickens was like before Tiny Tim and Ebenezer Scrooge ever graced the page, let alone the big and small screens, but you get a story of Christmas that is truly inspirational all on its own.
After dealing with three failures, back to back, Charles Dickens is struggling to deal with his finances. But with the help of A Christmas Carol and some of the most iconic characters to ever be a part of the holiday season, things begin to turn around for the man who is said to have helped change the holiday into the celebration it is today.
The Man Who Invented Christmas may have taken creative license with the story of Dickens and his life, but at the same time, this story is an inspiration in its own way. And as far as being a holiday movie, it not only works, but it becomes its own masterpiece in many ways.
Based on a true story (of course), this is one film that really will warm the heart and mind. And for those of us who love classic literature, and particularly Charles Dickens’ work, this feels like a must watch movie at least once (although I am totally good with watching this one every season).
As an added bonus, it certainly helps that the cast includes Christopher Plummer and Dan Stevens. With both men being scene stealers, this is a great option for Christmas movie lovers looking for a break from the usual holiday fare.
14. A Christmas Carol (2009)
Speaking of A Christmas Carol, there have been so many adaptations of this classic story that if we didn’t include at least one we would be completely remiss. (Luckily, we have to versions of this classic on the list.)
Based on the classic story by Charles Dickens (see The Man Who Invented Christmas), A Christmas Carol might be one of the most iconic holiday stories ever. And that is why it has been remade so many times that we could easily do a ranking of just the best versions of this movie. While there are certainly any number of live action choices we could have picked for this version of the movie, there is something about this one that stands out.
In this case, it feels a bit darker than what one might expect from Disney, and of course the fact that Jim Carrey is Scrooge helps to make it all work. But it is not just Carrey that sells this movie, it is the entire cast, which includes Gary Oldman, Robin Wright, Colin Firth, and Cary Elwes. Seriously, this cast is so impressive that it will draw you in, even if you aren’t a fan of A Christmas Carol.
You really can’t go wrong watching a more classic take on Charles Dickens’ work. And while we may love when the Muppets try their hand at this story, it is definitely not quite as impactful. Instead, this is a perfect chance to watch an iconic reimagining of the classic that delivers all of the drama, emotion, and inspiration we could have hoped for. (All this to say that our favorite version is also from Disney and can be found a bit higher up in the rankings.)
13. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
There are many iconic characters around Christmas. And one of the more iconic has to be Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, who has not only had a number of stories written about him, but he has also been the subject of his own movie or two. (And who wouldn’t want to write about the reindeer that helped Santa deliver Christmas to the world?) In 1964, the TV movie told the story of this misfit of a reindeer and his friends as he tried to find where he belonged and fit in.
Not only is this a great story of bullying and pushing past that sadness and sense of isolation, but it is also a story of friendship and finding your own path. And perhaps that is what makes this movie a must watch every single year. We get a lovely lesson, along with a classic holiday story and animation that has actually stood up to the test of time.
This may be a shorter movie than so many others, it is still an enjoyable watch, especially with family and friends. And if you happen to have a cup of hot chocolate to enjoy while watching, then it feels like you can’t go wrong.
No matter how old you are, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is a story that resonates with everyone for so many reasons. Whether it is about finding a place to fit in or dealing with being bullied, this is a movie that delivers more than just a lesson, it also delivers hope. And we can never go wrong with a little hope in our lives and movie watching preferences.
12. A Charlie Brown Christmas
There are a lot of animated options when it comes to finding great Christmas programming. And if we are going to look for iconic characters with our holidays, then it feels like we have to turn to Charlie Brown and friends.
A Charlie Brown Christmas is based on the comic strip created by Charles Schulz, and originally ran as a television special in 1965. However, over the years, it has become as much of an iconic classic as a movie like A Christmas Carol.
From the characters that we all know and love to the iconic imagery, such as the poor little tree that basically falls over with more than one ornament on it, A Charlie Brown Christmas is a must watch, at least once every season. And the fact that one of our favorite pups (Snoopy) is part of the story makes it that much more fun to watch.
We love that we get to see all of Charlie Brown’s friends make an appearance in this movie. And the moment when everyone is reminded about the meaning of Christmas will always stand out as an iconic scene that transcends the fact that this is an animated movie.
Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang are good at giving us heartwarming moments and stories that include humor and joy. And that is exactly what we get with this particular animated movie, humor, joy, and heartwarming moments of emotion.
11. The Nightmare Before Christmas
There has long been a debate over whether The Nightmare Before Christmas was a Christmas movie or a Halloween movie. And while we think it qualifies under both categories, it really does fit as a slightly darker look at Christmas.
We love watching Jack Skellington explore Christmas Town and trying to capture the joy and happiness of the holiday. And the fact that he is to Halloween what Santa is to Christmas means that as viewers, we expect to see him more jolly in his role than he is.
The fact that this is also a musical fantasy certainly helps to give it more love as a Christmas movie, although the darker aspects and more Halloween based approach to the holiday is definitely something that will make other people reject it as one of the great Christmas movies.
Personally, I love this story, these characters, and the overall look at what makes Christmas and Halloween so different from each other, while also pointing out the magic behind both holidays. And of course, the fact that Jack actually has to save Santa Claus after being the reason he is in trouble makes the entire story come full circle. (Plus, just like any other holiday movie, The Nightmare Before Christmas even features a few life lessons and a romance.)
While this story could probably have landed higher on this list, for me it is still just this side of being a bit too much Halloween to be the ultimate Christmas movie. But the fact that it delivers both makes it near and dear to my movie-loving heart.
10. The Grinch
Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch might be a remake of more than one movie, but for me, it is definitely one of the better options. Not only does the newest version of The Grinch Who Stole Christmas give us even more insight into who the Grinch is and was, but this version of Max is cuter than ever. In fact, I would say that this Max is a scene stealer in every way.
We all know the story of the grouchy Grinch who wants nothing to do with Christmas and the Whos living in Whoville. And yet, even knowing the story, this animated movie feels fresh and new.
I love the new Grinch and Max and found their story even more compelling than I have in the past. And of course having Benedict Cumberbatch voicing the Grinch, certainly helps sell this character and his tragic back story. However, it is not just the Grinch’s story that gets a bit of a makeover, as one other major character also gets an upgrade. The fact that Cindy Lou Who’s character (and her mother) gets a bit of an upgrade in terms of her own back story definitely adds to the overall appeal of this new take on the classic story.
Much like other holiday classics, The Grinch features great songs, plenty of emotion, and of course a lesson or two. The fact that both Grinch and Max are now even cuter than ever, just completes the picture.
9. Arthur Christmas
With a name like Arthur Christmas and a setting of Christmas night, it makes sense that this movie would make our list. And while it may be a more obscure choice for some, if you have ever seen this movie, you will understand why it is a great holiday offering.
Not only is Arthur the son of Santa Claus himself, but he ends up being the only one who can truly save Christmas. While Santa and his other children have changed the way the holiday is run, Arthur is a lot more old-school, and we love it! He still believes in the magic of Christmas, and that is what makes this story so wonderful.
This is a story that once again reminds us that Christmas and the holiday season is about more than just getting presents and having the newest thing. It really is the season of giving and hope and it really feels like that is the point of Arthur Christmas, to remind us of this.
The fact that this animated movie is just as enjoyable for adults as it is for kids is an added bonus that we can all appreciate. Not only can you sit down and watch this with your kids and still have a great time, but you can always watch it on your own and be entertained. Basically, this is a win-win, and we are totally here for that.
Oh, and can we just point out how fabulous the voice cast is for this film? Not only do we have James McAvoy and Hugh Laurie, but there is also Bill Nighy and Jim Broadbent, meaning we have some powerhouse stars lending their talents to these characters.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ByAINYDyFXs
8. Mickey’s A Christmas Carol
As I mentioned before, there have been many versions of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. And perhaps my all time favorite version of this story has to be Mickey’s Christmas Carol, which brings the classic Disney characters to life in a new way.
Released in 1983, this Dickens’ classic as an animated movie brought to life by characters like Mickey, Donald, and Goofy, still holds up to this day. And that doesn’t always happen. There have been plenty of movies and shows that simply don’t live up to our memories, and yet this one does.
Perhaps what makes Mickey’s A Christmas Carol work is that it really does stay true to its source material in many ways. And even the small tweaks that are done to make it child-friendly are not enough to take away from the story and what it means.
Unlike some reimaginings of this classic story, this Christmas movie is fun, vibrant, and well crafted. We get a film that is not trying to imitate anything else, but is instead trying to live up to the emotion and storytelling of Charles Dickens. And even with Mickey and friends bringing these characters to life, Dickens’ work still reigns supreme in this version of the film. (For me, this is truly the very best animated version of A Christmas Carol.)
7. Babes in Toyland
Did you know that Keanu Reeves once starred in a Christmas movie? How about Drew Barrymore? Well, the magic did happen at one point, when these two starred in the classic story, Babes in Toyland.
Released in 1986, this version of Babes in Toyland was a television movie that some people love and others are less than impressed with. However, once I saw Reeves and Barrymore on my screen I was sold.
Babes in Toyland brings a young girl to Toyland, where she ends up teaming up with both friends and family in an effort to defeat Barnaby, an evil villain looking to take over all of Toyland. The magic of Toyland is the magic of Christmas and while this is very clearly a holiday movie, it can be hard to put into words exactly what makes this film so great as a tale of the season.
However, the fact that we ultimately learn the identity of the Toymaster (it’s Santa Claus of course), and we learn more about Toyland and its inhabitants makes this story one that falls right into the realm of holiday magic. And yes, there are lessons to be learned, romances to be had, and of course magic and wonder.
Basically, Babes in Toyland is a magical Christmas movie that just really makes you long for the wonder of childhood. The fact that it also gives us a young Drew Barrymore and Keanu Reeves just seals the deal on this version of the film at the very least. And since I watched this movie on repeat when I was little, it will always have a special place in my nostalgic heart.
6. The Bishop’s Wife
The Bishop’s Wife is a classic holiday movie, that some people have never even heard of, which is sad for so many reasons. And yet, this is a story of faith, hope, and holiday magic that deserves to be enjoyed again and again.
Released in 1948, this movie was originally released in black and white and stars Cary Grant, a Hollywood icon. This movie sees a dejected bishop looking for divine intervention, leading to the arrival of a man who claims to be an angel from above. As this angel makes himself invaluable in the bishop and his wife’s life, it soon becomes a challenge to the heavens.
While there are some major religious vibes to this particular Christmas movie, it is also a beautiful story of hope, redemption, love, and faith. The Bishop’s Wife is a timeless classic that more people should watch and appreciate. And the fact that the story actually holds up, is stunning.
Although many movies are being remade and given new life, this is one classic that seems to be left to shine all on its own. Luckily, the acting is amazing and the holiday storyline transcends the decades.
Hopefully more people start watching this film in order to give it new life and new fans. It definitely deserves more love from Christmas lovers. And of course, it doesn’t hurt to have Cary Grant as a star.
5. Holiday Inn
The classics are called this for a reason. These are stories that are able to stand the test of time and deliver every single viewing. So, whether it is the first time you watch it or even the 100th, classic Christmas movies are just that – classic.
And Holiday Inn is certainly at the top of its game as a classic Christmas story. This movie musical from Irving Berlin is a stunning tale of love, loss, friendship, and even redemption.
With a stellar cast that includes Fred Astaire and Bing Crosby, Holiday Inn is a beautiful story that also reminds us that love can conquer even our own mistakes and bad decisions. While this is definitely a Christmas movie, it actually spans over the course of a year, meaning we actually get to see different holidays represented.
This is the movie that introduced the world to one of the most iconic Christmas songs ever – “White Christmas.” With 12 songs specifically written for this film, including one that was meant to be the star, “Be Careful, It’s My Heart,” this is a soundtrack and movie that deliver on the magic of the holidays.
While the storyline itself is very much a back and forth of love and loss, it is still beautiful in its own way. And with stunning music numbers and dance moments, Holiday Inn is a spectacular that deserves to be watched at least once in your life.
4. Meet Me in St. Louis
A year in the life of a family at the turn of the century is the basis for Meet Me in St. Louis. And yet, while this may be a year in the life, it is also very much a holiday classic. But what makes this one of my all time favorite Christmas movies might just be the fact that it stars the incomparable Judy Garland.
Meet Me in St. Louis might be about the year leading up to the family heading to the World Fair, but the holiday moments have always been what stood out to me the most. I remember watching this movie as a child and being drawn in because of the music and beauty of it all.
And of course, it feels like you can never go wrong with Judy Garland in a film, so this was and always be a favorite for me. The fact that it also features some beautiful music certainly helps sell it as well.
Not only does this movie give us “Auld Lang Syne,” but we also get “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” And the fact that the latter is performed by Garland is the star on top of the tree for me, because her voice has always been breathtaking and scene-stealing really. (If you have never heard the version performed by Judy Garland, it is important to note that it is different from the one Frank Sinatra gave new life to.)
This is a movie loaded with nostalgia and charm, and that is of course part of what makes this a magical Christmas movie.
3. It’s a Wonderful Life
There are a lot of classic movies, and while some might be considered a holiday classic, It’s a Wonderful Life is one that stands the test of time as a classic work of art. Listed as a fantasy film, this is the story of a man who is struggling.
It may be Christmas time, but George is thinking of ending it all because of the many problems he is facing. And while the angels worry over what to do, George ends up saving his own guardian angel. This leads to a look at what might have been without everything George has contributed to not just the people in his life, but his entire town.
This is like a trip down memory lane in many ways, and yet it is also a beautiful reminder of the way we all make an impact, even if we don’t think we do. As far as movies go, this is one that has topped many lists, and we can’t blame people for loving this film.
Not only is the acting beautiful, but the story itself is one that transcends genres. This is a story that more than just stands up to the test of time, it is truly just as relevant today as it ever was. And perhaps that is why it will always be more than just a classic, but one of the greatest Christmas movies ever released.
It’s impossible to make it to Christmas without watching It’s a Wonderful Life at least once. And for me, this is truly the perfect choice for Christmas Eve as it really does remind us of all the things we have to be thankful for.
2. Miracle of 34th Street
I feel like Miracle on 34th Street is one that everyone has seen at least once. And even if you haven’t seen the original from 1947, you have seen it (there have been a few remakes of this classic, including one in 1994) at least once. However, I will always opt for the 1947 classic as my go to choice for Christmas viewing.
Not only does this version of the movie seem to be the most magical, but it makes sense for the time period it was released in. A lawsuit over Kris Kringle being Santa Claus feels like something that might have happened back then. And the acting is so amazing that you truly believe each of these characters is who they say they are.
As a story, Miracle on 34th Street truly is a stunning tale of holiday magic and believing in things and people. While this may be considered a comedic drama, there is so much more to this movie than that. This is a stunning tale of Christmas magic and faith.
We all want to believe in Santa (no matter how old we are), and this movie proves that it is possible to believe and have that spark of hope that gets us through the day. And it helps that the innocence of childhood is what sells us all on believing that this man truly is Santa Claus himself (it is and no one can tell me otherwise).
Even if you prefer a more updated version of this movie, Miracle on 34th Street stands the test of time over and over again, making this one of my all time favorite Christmas stories.
1. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
Released in 1989, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is my all-time favorite Christmas movie. There is not a single movie on this list that compares in my eyes to this comedy classic. Not only is this one I can watch on repeat, but it doesn’t matter what time of year it is either. I will watch this movie from beginning to end, laughing every single time.
The fact that I can also quote this movie with friends makes this one that needs to be at the top of the list.
For me, I think what makes Christmas Vacation the ultimate Christmas movie is how relatable it is. Not only does it feel like so many of us have that crazy family that drives us up the wall, but who doesn’t have that person who is so obsessed with the holidays that they go all out on decorating? And what about the work situation, where you wonder if you are going to get a bonus or end up with nothing? Seriously, times may be changing, but these aspects of the movie still seem to hold true for a lot of us.
While this movie makes me laugh and is in many ways all about bringing the humor, there are still plenty of heartwarming moments as well. These are the moments that remind you of the magic of Christmas, and help give this movie the boost it needs to become a truly well-rounded classic.
If I could only watch one Christmas movie for the rest of the holiday season, this would hands-down be my choice. And that is why it lands in the number one spot for great Christmas movies (at least this year).
There are a lot of holiday movies out there to enjoy. And while Hallmark Christmas movies may not have made this list, or some of those new Netflix offerings, they are just as worthy of binge-watching as any that made our list here. We love the holidays and the magic of the season, and with these films, hopefully you find yourself feeling the same way.