The holiday season has officially arrived and that means it’s time to cuddle up with a warm blanket, cozy up in front of the TV, and dive into the world of festive Christmas films. Whether you prefer heartwarming classics like It’s A Wonderful Life or hilarious blockbusters like Home Alone, there are plenty of wonderful movies available to get you in the spirit this season.
To help narrow down your list choices, we’ve compiled a list of our top 10 favorite Christmas films which range from classic flicks to modern masterpieces (and everything in between). So don’t forget the hot cocoa. Here’s our countdown for The 10 Best Christmas Movies of All Time.
10. It’s a Wonderful Life
It’s a Wonderful Life is a classic holiday movie that was released in 1946. The film tells the story of George Bailey, a man who is contemplating suicide on Christmas Eve. However, he is visited by an angel who shows him what life would be like if he had never been born. The film is a heartwarming tale that teaches the importance of family, friends, and love.
9. A Christmas Story
A Christmas Story is a holiday classic that was released in 1983. The film tells the story of Ralphie Parker, a young boy who wants nothing more than a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. However, everyone tells him that he’ll shoot his eye out with it. The film is a hilarious and heartwarming tale that will resonate with anyone who has ever wanted something for Christmas.
8. Elf
Elf is a modern holiday classic that was released in 2003. The film stars Will Ferrell as Buddy, a human who was raised by elves at the North Pole. When he learns that he is not really an elf, he sets off for New York City in search of his father. The film is a hilarious and heartwarming tale that will have you laughing and feeling festive all at the same time.
7. Bridget Jones’s Diary
Bridget Jones’s Diary is a film that has become a classic in the cinema world. Released in 2001, it instantly gained popularity for its ability to capture the truth of a modern rom-com. From Renée Zellweger’s titular performance as the well-meaning but ridiculously unlucky-in-love British opposite numbers to Hugh Grant and Colin Firth, Bridget Jones’s Diary transcended other movies of its genre to become a film truly beloved by millennials and film geeks alike.
Now nearly two decades old, its humor is still just as funny, and its message and Xmas theme just as sweet when rewatching today – making Bridget Jones’s Diary an unforgettable film for the ages.
6. How the Grinch Stole Christmas
How the Grinch Stole Christmas is a holiday classic that was released in 1966. The animated film tells the story of the Grinch, a grumpy creature who hates Christmas and sets out to ruin it for everyone else.
However, he soon learns that the true meaning of Christmas isn’t about gifts or decorations but about love and compassion. The film is a heartwarming tale that will leave you feeling festive and joyful
5. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is a holiday movie that was released in 1989. The film follows the story of Clark Griswold, who is determined to have the best Christmas ever for his family. However, everything seems to go wrong and Clark ends up having to save Christmas himself. The film is a hilarious and heartwarming tale that will leave you laughing and feeling festive.
4. Miracle on 34th Street
Miracle on 34th Street is a holiday movie that was released in 1947. The film follows the story of Kris Kringle, an elderly man who gets hired as Santa Claus at Macy’s department store in New York City.
Kris quickly becomes popular with both children and adults alike due to his uncanny ability to deliver presents to children around the world on Christmas Eve night. However, when Kris claims that he is actually Santa Claus, he finds himself on trial for insanity
3. Bad Santa
The film ‘Bad Santa’, released in 2003, was an instant classic for moviegoers. For a film about mall Santa’s pulling off the Christmas heist of the century, it certainly brings a unique sense of humor that sets it apart from other comedies in its field.
Starring is Billy Bob Thornton as the protagonist, Willie Stokes – determined to help himself and his partner Marcus (Tony Cox) rather than children this holiday season. The film is an essential modern-day festive cinema viewing experience. It has something for everyone, young or old, cynical or not. ‘Bad Santa’ is truly a film that cannot be missed at Christmas time.
2. Home Alone
Home Alone is a holiday classic that was released in 1990. The film tells the story of Kevin McCallister, an 8-year-old boy who accidentally gets left behind when his family goes on vacation to Paris over the holidays. At first, Kevin is excited to have the house to himself but soon realizes that being home alone isn’t as fun as it seems. The film is a hilarious and suspenseful tale that will keep you entertained from beginning to end.
1. Love Actually
Love Actually is a film that is regarded as a classic in modern cinema. It was directed by British filmmaker Richard Curtis and released back in 2003. Initially received mixed reviews, it has since become one of the most popular romantic movies to see, with its multiple intertwined love stories across London.
The film addresses different perspectives of love at different stages of life and involves a star-studded cast. With memorable lines and moments, it’s no surprise that Love Actually has gained such a strong following over the years and continues to be enjoyed by all generations across the world.
