Classic Holiday Movies

White Christmas - This musical comedy follows the tale of Bob and Phil, two US army soldiers who begin work as entertainers after the end of World War II. In a fast-paced tale that brings out the importance of loyalty and love, the two friends show their previous army general that he has not been forgotten. “I love the music,” said Beth Hartog ’19. “It’s just a classic.”

Home Alone - This classic movie follows eight-yearold Kevin McCallister after his parents forget him when leaving for a vacation. Kevin cleverly evades two intruders, successfully defending his home. His family returns on Christmas morning and they happily reunite. Grant Hill ’16 said, “They should bring back this Macaulay Culkin!”

Miracle on 34th Street - Kris Kringle takes the role of Santa in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and kicks off the season of holiday celebrations. Then, Kringle is miraculously proven to be the one and only Santa Claus in a formal hearing. This charming movie shows the importance of support and happiness during the holiday season. Annalise Hilts ’16 said, “It’s a classic, and my family and I watch it every year.”

How the Grinch Stole Christmas - Based on Dr. Seuss’ children’s book, this adaptation focuses on the Grinch. This miserly character is determined to ruin the holidays for cheery citizens of Whoville. After attempting to ruin the holiday several times, he realizes—with the help of six-year-old Cindy Lou—that the holidays are not all about festivities and decorations—they are about spending time with family and friends. Charlotte Wang ’17 said, “Watching this movie every year always puts me in the Christmas Spirit.

The Nightmare Before Christmas - This film combines elements from both Halloween and Christmas, following Jack Skellington, also known as The Pumpkin King. This character is usually in charge of organizing Halloween celebrations, but after accidentally ending up in Christmas town, he is enchanted by the holiday spirit and decides to take over Santa’s job. Deepak Gupta ’18 said, “I like this movie because it branches off from the traditional style of holiday movies. The animation style is creepy but also entertaining.”

Polar Express - On Christmas Eve a magical train called the Polar Express picks up a boy and some other children on its way to the North Pole. The youngsters’ adventures during their journey illustrate the importance of bravery and true friendship. Matt Spence ’16 said, “Polar Express had me believing in Santa until fifth grade. I’d watch it every Christmas, and the song Believe is still one of my favorite holiday songs.”

A Princess for Christmas - Jules Daly, her niece Maddie, and her nephew Milo are invited to spend the holidays with their distant relative Duke Edward of Castlebury in Europe. There, Jules falls in love with the Prince of Castlebury, and the whole family has a magical Christmas. “I’ve seen this movie five times,” said Hannah Melchinger.

A Christmas Carol - Based on Charles Dickens’ novel, this movie follows grumpy Ebenezer Scrooge as three ghosts show him the past, present, and future of his coworker’s life. Scrooge realizes that his negative mood impacts the life situation of people around him, and Scrooge transforms his attitude by Christmas morning.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer - Based on the popular song “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” this movie features the heartwarming story of Rudolph. Rudolph firrst faces difficulties due to his unusual feature of a glowing nose. However, Rudolph and his family and true friends experience adventures that reveal the importance of true friendship and allow Rudolph to take pride in his unique traits. “This movie brings back so many memories from when I watched it as a kid,” said Tyler Bahamonde ’18.

Elf - This classic American comedy is a must-see. Buddy, played by Will Ferrell, is a human raised with elves at the North Pole. After realizing that, in fact, he is not an elf, Buddy returns to America to find his father. Amy An ’18 said, “There are some great life lessons in the movie and Buddy is admirable because he takes risks and is very enthusiastic even when faced with challenges.”