10 Christmas movies to get you in the festive spirit!
Get out the popcorn and festive snacks, it's Christmas movie time!
NO matter who you are or what you do, 2022 has been a strenuous year and things just seem to be speeding up as the year winds down!
Why not start the process of getting into the Christmas spirit with some popcorn and a classic movie?
ALSO READ: Beach safety first this festive season
This is an opportunity to let your mind switch off as you get into that great end-of-year zone. Here are our top 10 to get you started.
1. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
Start with an old classic that has a bit of melancholy, ending with some really uplifting Christmas cheer. If you’re a first-timer, this is a story about a down-on-his-luck bank clerk (James Stewart) who is pushed to the brink of suicide before a trainee angel shows him how sad life would be without him. A real tear-jerker!
2. Die Hard (1988)
If that’s too soppy for you, you can’t go wrong with this Bruce Willis classic. The only connection it has to Christmas is the setting (an office Christmas party), but there are some great one-liners and plenty of mindless action to keep you enthralled. Watch John McClane save his wife – and Christmas!
3. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
For those who prefer a whacky comedy to unwind with, then Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase) is your man. Awkward family gatherings, insane decisions, and a real heart to make this the ultimate family Christmas.
4. Home Alone (1990)
While there have been sequels and remakes, the original featuring Macaulay Culkin really can’t be outdone! Young Kevin accidentally gets his wish for a lonely holiday when his family goes on vacation without him. But things get tricky when two thieves try to rob the youngster’s home – their mistake!
5. The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
Charles Dickens’ age-old Christmas story has been remade countless times, but you really can’t beat the Muppet’s endearing version. Michael Caine’s stoic performance of Ebeneezer Scrooge so wonderfully contrasts with the Muppet’s antics for a really joyful film.
6. Miracle on 34th Street (1994)
If you want to remain true to the classics, the 1947 original is also worth watching, but this 1994 version is a really heartwarming film. A Christmas store Santa (played by Richard Attenborough) believes he’s actually Father Christmas, a point which young Dorey (Mara Wilson) and her lawyer friend (Dylan McDermott), end up proving in court.
7. Elf (2003)
This is a treat for adults and children alike as Will Ferrell puts on a fantastic performance of a human brought up to believe he was a Christmas Elf. There’s lots of magic to be discovered!
8. Love Actually (2003)
If you’re looking for something with a bit of romance this festive season, turn to Richard Curtis’ British classic. A series of interconnected stories unfolds, some with humour, some with drama, but all with a lot of love (actually!).
9. The Holiday (2006)
Keeping with the romantic theme, this time with a British and American twist, is The Holiday. Starring Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet as two love-sick women looking to escape for the holidays, the pair swap homes and find love.
10. The Grinch (2018)
There are many versions of this Dr Zeuss classic, but the cartoon one voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch is a great one for the whole family. From a grumpy green gremlin to a beloved festive fellow, this is a wonderful Christmas tale. The 2000 film starring Jim Carrey is also a fun option!
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