Family huddled around a screen ()
Grab a warm cup of hot cocoa, a reindeer-shaped sugar cookie - or two - and snuggle up in a cozy blanket on the couch. It’s time for some Christmas movie magic! While there are many wonderful movies out there that will get you in the Christmas Spirit, here are the four that are near and dear to my heart.
1. “Elf”
“Buddy the Elf, what’s your favorite color?”
“You’re not Santa, you smell like beef and cheese!”
Any of these quotes sound familiar? They should, and if they don’t, you’re missing out on the best Christmas movie out there! “Elf” brings you positivity and lots of laughter. Buddy the Elf discovers he was mistakenly delivered to the North Pole as a child and raised by Santa’s elves. When he gets older and makes the (obvious) realization that he isn't an elf, Buddy sets off to New York City – in full-on elf attire – to search for his real father, who may or may not want anything to do with his childish son. Will Ferrell does a phenomenal job bringing laughter and holiday cheer as Buddy the Elf.
2. “Home Alone”
In my opinion, the original Home Alone was hands down the greatest movie of the quintet of Home Alone movies. In the first movie, Kevin McCallister misbehaves the night before a family Christmas trip to Paris. His punishment is to sleep in the attic, where he wishes he would have no family. His family leaves for their trip but forgets Kevin is in the attic, and next thing you know, Kevin believes his wish came true. However, it’s not long before his dream is crushed by two crooks with bad intentions. This popular holiday movie touches hearts by highlighting the importance of family, despite how mad they make you, and that no matter the circumstances, nobody wants to be alone for the holidays.
3. “The Grinch”
Know someone who needs to get in the Christmas spirit? Make them watch the Grinch with you and watch the magic unfold. The mean, green Grinch and his dog sidekick, Max, devise an evil plan to ruin Christmas for the endearing people of Whoville. However, leave it to sweet Cindy Lou Who of Whoville to try and warm the Grinch’s cold heart and kick-start his Christmas Spirit. This classic Dr. Seuss tale can make any grump happy!
4. “A Christmas Story”
This beloved holiday movie is an oldie, but a goodie! Following the adventures of young, nine-year-old Ralphie Parker as he spends his time wishing for his dream Christmas gift. His mother, school teacher and a man dressed as Santa Claus all deny him of this gift with the warning, “you’ll shoot your eye out kid!” Ralphie barely makes it to Christmas Day with the suspense of whether or not he will get this gift along with the stress of dodging a bully and dealing with his grumpy father. Whether you’ve seen this 1983 holiday classic or not, it’s a must-watch during the Christmas season!
Regardless of what Christmas movies you find yourself watching this year, just ensure you’ll have a jolly, good time – and lots of Christmas-themed snacks! Merry Christmas and to all a good movie night!
