When it comes to favorite holiday movies, just about everybody has simple tastes. Many of the Hollywood offerings fall somewhere in between genres, this is a good thing that helps bring the appeal of the films to a more universal audience. However, every year more and more films get released under the holiday or Christmas tag, but only come up short on the measuring stick. Classics never go out of style, and here is my list for the top 5 classic Christmas films.
“It’s a Wonderful Life”
James Stewart still captivates me to this day, by getting a look the effect he has on the life of those around him. The theme has been done in what seems like hundreds of different films, but so very few manage to pay homage to the tale that started it all. The film delivers a powerful message without every coming across as preachy, which is a rarity in any film these days.
“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”
I have a friend who quotes this movie to the point of exhaustion, but the fact that it never seems to get old is prime example of what makes the Chevy Chase romp so successful. Plus, the movie delivers a great message that anyone who spends time with family around the holidays can relate to. Really, doesn’t everybody have a cousin Eddie?
“The Santa Clause”
The Tim Allen film lands on the classic list because of the charm of the comedian. The film has a bunch of laugh out loud moments, but still has the ability to bring the magic of Christmas to the hearts of adults everywhere. Sure the sequels were forgettable, but the original still manages to bring a smile to face of any viewer.
“How the Grinch Stole Christmas”
No, not the Jim Carey version. The original cartoon narrated by king of scary Boris Karloff himself is still a Dr. Seuss treat. While not technically a movie, just about everybody in America nearly cries a bit when the Grinch gets the “power of ten Grinches, plus two.” The story of redemption around the holidays is more of a classic theme than anyone involved with the story could have ever realized.
“Miracle on 34thStreet”
While this classic has been remade as well, both films do a pretty good job at bringing the story to life. Just about everybody is rooting for Kris Kringle, and really, if you can’t get into this Santa story, then Christmas movies are probably just not for you.