10. Bad Santa
Take a break from studying, and give Bad Santa a try if you’ve never seen it. Billy Bob Thornton plays a conman posed as Santa who befriends a troubled boy, and their hilarious interactions carry the film.
9. The Polar Express
Besides teaching children to keep believing in Santa, The Polar Express is cinematically beautiful, and has a great soundtrack. Plus, it always seems to be on FreeForm. It’s the perfect movie for sitting comfy on the couch with a cup of hot coca.
8. Frosty the Snowman
Before there was Olaf, a snowman named Frosty came alive to brighten children’s days during winter. This movie is a classic that is a staple this holiday season.
7. The Holiday
I love to watch this movie whether it’s winter time, or not. It’s a romantic-comedy starring Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz, Jack Black, and Jude Law which takes place in two different countries during the holiday season.
6. Nestor the Long Eared Christmas Donkey
This is a heartwarming movie that I can only watch once or twice during the holiday season, but it is still one of my favorites. Makes me cry every time.
5. A Charlie Brown Christmas
The Peanuts + Christmas = A recipe for one of the best movies of the Christmas season. This is perfect for people who do not have a lot of time to watch a holiday movie, but want to feel some holiday spirit.
4. How the Grinch Stole Christmas
This movie is the animated version of Dr. Seuss’ story How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and is my personal preference over the live-action film starring Jim Carey. It’s another movie that will lift your spirits without taking up a lot of your time.
3. Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town
Ever wonder how Santa came to be the man who delivers presents to children? Well this stop motion movie tells this story in a clever and cute manner that is perfect for this holiday.
2. Elf
Will Ferrell blows me away every time I watch Elf. If you haven’t seen it, he plays Buddy the Elf, a man who grew up at the North Pole with an Elf upbringing. He travels to New York City after he realizes that he’s different from the other elves to see his father, and experiences the world outside Santa’s Workshop. It’s absolutely hilarious anytime of the year, but captures the holiday spirit that I love.
1. The Year Without a Santa Claus
My all-time favorite movie this holiday season tells the story of when Santa Claus wants to take a break from bringing Christmas presents to all of the children in the world, and how everyone reacts to this. I personally love the Heat Miser who’s def better than Snow Miser!
And there you have it, this holiday season’s top ten movies! Whether you have seen these movies or not, I recommend watching one whenever you need a break this stressful time of the school year. Best of luck with finals, and have a great holiday!
HCXO,
Steph Niknam