A Christmas Story (1983)
The quintessential Christmas classic in the Diaz household is A Christmas Story. From the first cup of coffee my dad will drink at 6:30AM to when I go to bed around 11:00PM after eating Chinese food, the looped version of A Christmas Story on TNT doesn’t leave our living room television screen. It’s always fun to pop your head in and laugh about Ralphie being kicked down the slide by Santa or about Mr. Parker’s leg lamp, the movie doesn’t get old. It hits all the right notes pertaining to dysfunctional family dynamics around the holiday, which I think makes this the best Christmas movie ever made. If you’ve never seen it, throw on TNT this year on Christmas in between opening gifts and heading to your relatives and take in all 93 minutes of this hilarious holiday flick.
Love Actually (2003)
Love Actually is a perennial favorite for the holiday season due to its heartwarming storytelling and thematic resonance with the spirit of Christmas. Richard Curtis weaves multiple romantic narratives that capture the essence of love in its various form. Whether it’s romantic, familial, or platonic, Curtis makes you fall in love. Set against the backdrop of the festive season, the movie celebrates the interconnectedness of people’s lives during the holidays. Its stellar ensemble cast and memorable soundtrack create a charming and feel-good atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for cozying up with loved ones and indulging in the joy, hope and love that define the Christmas season. Love Actually effortlessly embodies the magic of love and togetherness, making it a delightful film to watch and cherish during the holidays.
Gremlins (1984)
Is it a horror movie? Yes, it kind of is, but in the cutest and most cuddly way a horror movie can be. While this might be deemed hypocritical, I categorize Gremlins as a Christmas movie. I don’t put Die Hard or Carol in that same category. Why, you might ask? Well, it’s because Billy receives Gizmo and the other mogwais as a Christmas gift. If it weren’t the holiday season, then Billy would never be put in the position to break the three forbidden rules that turn mogwais into gremlins. I also attach a Christmas sentiment to it because I first saw this when I was 11 around Christmas time. There’s nostalgia and holiday sentimentality that this film has for me, so yes, it’s making the list. Definitely an off-the-beaten-path holiday film, but one you’re sure to enjoy.
Elf (2003)
“Buddy the Elf, what’s your favorite color?” It’s a classic. Elf is one of those Christmas movies that if you see it’s on cable, you’re sitting down to watch the rest of it no matter what point it’s at. It could be Buddy just getting to New York or him getting into the massive snowball fight, you get hooked. I find it oddly similar to The Shawshank Redemption where you always feel the need to watch it when it’s on. Elf incorporates a hysterical Will Ferrell role, but also an underrated hilarious one from James Caan. If you haven’t seen Elf yet, then this years the year to see it. If you’ve seen it already, there hasn’t been a better time to sit down for a rewatch. Cook a nice plate of spaghetti and syrup and get comfortable on the couch to watch Elf.
It’s A Wonderful Life (1946)
While A Christmas Story is a quintessential classic at my house during the holidays, It’s A Wonderful Life should be a classic at everyones house. Regarded as one of the best films ever made, director Frank Capra takes the viewer on a journey about depression, community, and love that is set against the background of the holiday season in Bedford Falls, New York. James Stewart’s portrayal of George Bailey is often hailed as one of his finest performances. His portrayal captures the essence of the character’s journey and emotions, making the audience deeply empathize with him. Personally, I’d say it’s his best performance — it’s definitely my favorite from the legendary actor.
The Night Before (2015)
Not only is The Night Before one of the most underrated Christmas movies, I think it’s one of the most underrated comedies of the 21st century. A lot like Hot Tub Time Machine, The Night Before showcases male friendships past college very well. It shows how people drift apart, but can come back together through one unique tradition or bond. The chemistry shared between Seth Rogen, Anthony Mackie, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt is great because they make you believe they’re all life long friends that have bonded since high school over their Christmas Eve traditions of going out to bars and playing Runaway on a big piano. Plus, Michael Shannon is in this as a mystical pot dealer. Anytime Michael Shannon is in a movie, it gets better.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
As a child, the whacky and obscure world of Tim Burton films scared me. They were creepy and in my mind, they never felt clean. Sort of like I’d feel skeeved out after watching one of them and would need a shower. But as I’ve grown up, I’ve become fond of Burton’s writing and Henry Selick’s direction. So much so, that I think this is one of the best Christmas movies ever made. While it hits the somewhat traditionalistic Christmas notes like featuring snowflakes and Christmas lights, it transcends that. We receive the powerful message that if you fail while trying to conquer a great quest, it’s still admirable that you tried. To clearly portray that message while still hitting the notes of Christmas loosely is beautiful.
Christmas in Connecticut (1945)
Last night, my dad got home and was flipping through cable and saw that Christmas in Connecticut was on the TCM channel. That led for him to retreat to the living room and watch it. It’s not just his favorite Christmas movie, but one of his all-time favorite films. I used to sneer at my dads recommendation of older films, but I must note that this is a great film. It holds a unique charm revolving around mistaken identity and the spirit of Christmas that makes you feel warm inside. Despite being released decades ago, Christmas in Connecticut continues to resonate with audiences due to its timeless themes of love, family, and the joy of the holiday season. This is a great double feature with It’s A Wonderful Life if you’re looking to go into the history of Christmas films.