Christmas is one of my favourite times of the year. No, I don’t celebrate the holiday itself, but I love the feeling and aura the month of December evokes; snow is glistening on the bare trees, the air is laced with peppermint and gingerbread, everyone is happy and kind, and most importantly, Christmas movies are on again! Surely, I can’t be the only one who staves off on watching Christmas movies for 11 months to save them for December — it makes the holidays that much more enjoyable and festive.
Without further ado, here are the top five Christmas movies ranked by yours truly — someone who doesn’t celebrate Christmas.
5. Barbie in the Nutcracker (2001)
Barbie in the Nutcracker is an old gem. It has that classic Barbie animation that we love, along with an unforgettable soundtrack. (Who doesn’t love “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy”)? The lovely story in which Clara and the Nutcracker have to defeat the Mouse King makes me nostalgic every time and is the perfect film to have on while cozied up in a blanket by the fireplace.
4. Hook (1991)
Now, there’s probably some debate as to whether or not this film is a Christmas movie, but it takes place during Christmas and, therefore, qualifies in my book.
This film is all about rediscovering your childhood and imagination (is that Christmas-y enough for you?) in the most magical place of all time: Neverland! Peter — yes, Peter Pan is now a boring adult with children of his own and goes on a journey to save his kids from the notorious Captain Hook. With the help of the Lost Boys and Tinkerbell, Peter remembers what it’s like to enjoy life and doesn’t let adulthood ruin his fun. Also, it stars Robin Williams, so you just know it’s going to be good.
3. Rise of the Guardians (2012)
Okay, I know this isn’t technically a Christmas movie either. If anything, it’s an Easter movie since that’s the holiday the Guardians try to save. But I don’t care. This movie is an easy 10/10 and is absolutely perfect for the Christmas season; there’s beautiful snowy scenery, a story of self-discovery, and one of the Guardians is a far cooler version of Santa. What more can you ask for?
Despite its charming animation, great voice acting and intriguing plot, this movie is criminally underrated. I even daresay that it is one of my top favourite animated movies (and I have a lot). And, let’s face it, who among us didn’t have a crush on Jack Frost when they were little? No? Just me? Okay, moving on.
2. Dr Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
As a Christmas classic, I couldn’t not put this movie on my list. Jim Carrey puts on a hilarious performance that remains iconic to this day; one that has us snorting with every one of his over-the-top quotable lines.
The Grinch’s comically sad backstory can’t help but make you feel sympathetic and understanding as he ruins Christmas for all of Whoville. (Frankly, they deserved it; especially Mayor Maywho. What a jerk). And the older you get, the more you realize you actually relate to the cranky old Grinch; fervently deciding what to wear to an event before choosing not to go at all, saving some alone-time to wallow in self-pity and privately loathing society from a distance. Isn’t that what Christmas is all about?
1. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)
December simply cannot go by without watching the first two Home Alone movies, though the second one is superior to the first (yea, I said it). In Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, we’re taken on a journey through the “pretty side” of winter in New York, one decorated with snow and lights rather than sludge and grey.
When Kevin gets lost in the Big Apple, we follow him into a beautiful hotel — which brings us hilarious moments like the “Get down on your knees and tell me you love me” scene — and an even more beautiful toy store which, as a kid (and kinda even now), I’d always wanted to visit. Needless to say, Christmas isn’t Christmas without the McCallisters.
So, for all of you who celebrate Christmas, make sure to keep these movies on your watchlist this season. Happy holidays, everyone!