With Christmas just one week away, we felt that it was time to start binge-watching our holiday favorites (again). Here’s a list of the ones we love, and why we love them!
Meet Me In St. Louis (1944)
This is the film that gave us “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”, and for that, it’s cemented on my holiday must-watch list. Recced by: The Collectress
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
This film is a holiday tradition for many families, mine included. I can think of very few other movies that show how precious every life is, even when that person feels worthless. This is so much more than just a Christmas movie, and it gives me the feels every damn time. Recced by: The Collected Mutineer
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
So, is the old man really Santa Claus? That’s the mystery of this classic Maureen O’Hara movie. The best part? The movie isn’t even really about Christmas; it’s about having faith in the people around you. Recced by: The Collected Mutineer
White Christmas (1954)
It really isn’t the holiday season until I watch this one with my mother. I’ve seen it at least 50 times, but the more I watch it, the more I love it. (And if you can, also see it on stage. It’s magical) Recced by: The Collectress
How The Grinch Stole Christmas (1966)
We’re talking the television short that inspired the film. Christmas just isn’t the same for me without that catchy song. I mean, “Your heart is full of unwashed socks.” Classic. The whole thing is only 25 minutes long, and you can watch it right now. Recced by: The Collected Mutineer
Scrooge (1970)
“A Christmas Carol” is probably the most adapted holiday story out there. Because who doesn’t like a ghost or two in their Christmas movies? This particular adaptation is my favorite, because in addition to being the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, it is a broadway-worthy musical. Recced by: The Collected Mutineer
Christmas Vacation (1989)
This film is probably the most quoted one by my family. It doesn’t even have to be Christmas for us to watch it, quote it, or accidentally emulate it. (The cat being fried by the Christmas lights? I wish I could say that never happened at our Christmas…don’t worry, kitty is fine!) Recced by: The Collectress
A Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
This is the only way to experience this piece of classic holiday literature (for me, the Muppets are the only people who can make Dickens palatable!) Recced by: The Collectress
You’ve Got Mail (1998)
Tom Hanks + Meg Ryan + dial-up internet = amazing. Recced by: The Collected Canadian
Bad Santa (2003)
Apparently, a theme in my favorite holiday films is finding one’s Christmas spirit and what I adore about this movie is that Billy Bob Thorton’s character has absolutely ZERO until he meets our adorable, chubby hero. “Are you fuckin’ with me?” and that entire bit has to be the funniest exchange in the movie and watching the main character grow throughout the story is hilarious. This is so very NOT kid friendly, but trust me, you will laugh your ass off. Recced by: The Collectiva Diva
Love Actually (2003)
Does this one need explaining? Recced by: The Collected Canadian
The Polar Express (2004)
I’m all about whimsy, and this movie is as whimsical as they come, plus, there’s singing! Also, Tom Hanks plays a number of animated roles within the film, each one unique, fun and unforgettable. The story is all about believing in Santa and the wonder that comes with having the Christmas spirit. It’s one I love and watch with the fam every year, with a cup of hot, hot, hot hot chocolate. Recced by: The Collectiva Diva
The Family Stone (2005)
This is a beautiful, beautiful film about family that just happens to be set at Christmas. And really, all the kudos to Diane Keaton for that emotionally-charged dinner table scene. All the kudos. Recced by: The Collectress
Doctor Who Christmas Specials: “Christmas Invasion” (2005) & “The Runaway Bride” (2006)
While they’re technically not films, we can’t make it through the holiday season without a dose of Christmas spirit from our favorite doctor: David Tennant. Also, DONNA NOBLE. Recced by: The Collectress & the Collected Canadian
What are your favorite holiday films? Tell us on Twitter.