Shrug off those winter coats and plop your frigid butts by a crackling fire (that 24/7 yule log channel will do) because it's time to get together and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with a collection of the best Christmas movies that cinema has to offer.
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Christmas movies have a special place in our hearts. They transport us to a world of snowy landscapes and twinkling lights, enveloping us in the warmth of tradition and nostalgia.
Some Christmas movies deliver laughter through comedic mishaps and quirky characters. Others touch our hearts with tales of redemption, kindness, and the importance of giving. No matter the storyline, they all capture the essence of the holiday spirit.
Families gather around the TV, popcorn in hand, to share these cinematic moments, creating cherished traditions that span generations. It's a time when we can escape into a world where wishes come true, miracles happen, and the joy of the season is palpable.
Whether it's a story of a misfit who finds acceptance or a lesson in the true meaning of Christmas, these films remind us of the beauty of this time of year and the power of love and togetherness.
Here are the top 10 Christmas movies ever made.
10. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966)
Warner Home Video
Who's in it: Boris Karloff (narrator), June Foray (Cindy Lou Who), and Thurl Ravenscroft (singing voice of the Grinch).
This timeless tale, narrated by Boris Karloff, tells the story of the Grinch, a green, furry recluse who despises Christmas. With the help of memorable characters like Cindy Lou Who, the Grinch learns the true meaning of the holiday season - that Christmas isn't just about presents and decorations but about the spirit of love and togetherness. The film's whimsical animation, memorable songs, and endearing message have made it a beloved holiday tradition for generations.
9. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)
Classic Media
Who's in it: Burl Ives (Sam the Snowman), Larry D. Mann (Yukon Cornelius), and Billie Mae Richards (Rudolph).
This delightful stop-motion classic tells the story of Rudolph, a young reindeer with a glowing red nose that sets him apart from the others. Facing ridicule and rejection, Rudolph embarks on a journey of self-discovery, ultimately proving that our differences can be our greatest strengths. Burl Ives' soothing narration as Sam the Snowman adds a warm touch to the film. With its charming characters and uplifting message, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer continues to capture hearts every holiday season.
8. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
Getty Image
Who's in it: Peter Robbins (Charlie Brown), Christopher Shea (Linus), and Tracy Stratford (Lucy).
A Charlie Brown Christmas is a beloved holiday classic featuring the iconic Peanuts gang. The film follows Charlie Brown's quest to discover the true meaning of Christmas amidst the commercialism and chaos of the season. Linus, with his memorable speech about the birth of Jesus, provides a touching moment of clarity in the story. This heartwarming tale, filled with endearing characters and accompanied by Vince Guaraldi's unforgettable jazz score, reminds us that the simplicity of love and friendship is what makes Christmas truly special.
7. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Disney Enterprises, Inc.
Who's in it: Chris Sarandon (Jack Skellington), Catherine O'Hara (Sally), and William Hickey (Dr. Finkelstein).
Directed by Tim Burton, the stop-motion animated movie takes us to Halloween Town, where Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King, stumbles upon Christmas Town and decides to take over the holiday. The film's darkly whimsical atmosphere and memorable characters, like the lovable ragdoll Sally, make it a captivating and enduring holiday classic. Blending the spooky with the festive, it's a tale that reminds us of the importance of embracing our own traditions while appreciating the beauty of others.
6. Bad Santa (2003)
Dimension Films
Who's in it: Billy Bob Thornton (Willie), Tony Cox (Marcus), and Lauren Graham (Sue).
A hilariously irreverent approach to the holiday season. Billy Bob Thornton stars as Willie, a foul-mouthed and morally questionable mall Santa Claus who, along with his elf companion Marcus, plans to rob the mall on Christmas Eve. Despite its dark humor and crude antics, the film manages to find some heart beneath its cynical exterior. With memorable performances and a unique twist on the holiday genre, Bad Santa offers a refreshingly different take on Christmas.
5. Scrooged (1988)
Paramount Pictures
Who's in it: Bill Murray (Frank Cross), Karen Allen (Claire), and Bobcat Goldthwait (Eliot Loudermilk).
This modern-day retelling of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol stars Bill Murray as Frank Cross, a selfish and heartless TV executive who is visited by three Christmas ghosts. The film adds a comedic and satirical twist to the classic tale, while still delivering a powerful message about redemption and the importance of kindness. Murray's wit and charisma shine in this darkly funny yet ultimately heartwarming Christmas movie.
4. Home Alone (1990)
20th Century Fox
Who's in it: Macaulay Culkin (Kevin McCallister), Joe Pesci (Harry), and Daniel Stern (Marv).
A family-friendly holiday film that combines humor with heart. The story follows young Kevin McCallister, accidentally left behind by his family during Christmas vacation, as he defends his home from two bumbling burglars. Macaulay Culkin's charming portrayal of Kevin, along with the hilarious antics of Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern as the burglars, makes this film a timeless favorite. Home Alone reminds us that the holiday season is about family, love, and the strength that can be found in unexpected places.
3. Elf (2003)
Columbia Pictures
Who's in it: Will Ferrell (Buddy), James Caan (Walter), and Zooey Deschanel (Jovie).
A heartwarming and hilarious holiday film that has quickly become a modern classic. Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, a human who was raised by elves at the North Pole and embarks on a journey to New York City to find his real father. Ferrell's endearing and childlike portrayal of Buddy, combined with a whimsical and playful narrative, makes Elf a joyful and family-friendly movie. It captures the essence of the Christmas spirit by emphasizing the importance of spreading love and cheer during the holiday season.
2. It's A Wonderful Life (1946)
Herbert Dorfman/Getty Images
Who's in it: James Stewart (George Bailey), Donna Reed (Mary), and Lionel Barrymore (Mr. Potter).
A timeless classic that explores the impact of one person's life on an entire community. James Stewart delivers a stellar performance as George Bailey, a man on the brink of despair who is shown what life would have been like if he had never existed. This heartwarming tale reminds us of the profound effect our actions can have on others and the true value of friends and family. With its enduring message of hope and redemption, It's A Wonderful Life continues to resonate with audiences of all generations.
1. A Christmas Story (1983)
MGM/UA Entertainment Co.
Who's in it: Peter Billingsley (Ralphie), Melinda Dillon (Mrs. Parker), and Darren McGavin (Mr. Parker).
Topping the list is A Christmas Story, a quintessential part of the holiday season. Set in the 1940s, the film follows young Ralphie's quest to receive a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. A Christmas Story captures the nostalgia and innocence of childhood during the holidays, complete with memorable scenes involving a leg lamp and a visit to Santa. Its humor, charm, and relatability make it a timeless favorite that reminds us of the magic and quirks of the Christmas season.
