Start your holiday season off right by watching the best five holiday movies of all time. To be judged as “the best,” holiday movies must include components of nostalgia, holiday spirit, and an interesting plot line. All five movies have some of each, making them the perfect movie-night picks for the beginning of the holiday season.
In fifth place is “Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas.” This movie features a grumpy, green
creature, the Grinch, who tries to “steal” Christmas from Whoville. While it displays some nostalgic elements, its plot and holiday spirit are what put it on this list. Although the Grinch spends almost the entire movie attempting to rid Whoville of Christmas, in the end, a family of ‘whos’ welcome him into their home to enjoy Christmas dinner. This act of kindness demonstrates the holiday spirit of giving and community. While this movie is good, it’s in fifth place because it lacks many nostalgic elements.
In fourth place is “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York.” A sequel to the original “Home Alone” movie, this film follows the McCallister family’s winter vacation the next year. While the rest of the family travels to Florida, Kevin mistakenly boards the wrong flight that’s headed to New York City. Unfortunately, the burglars from the prior year, also known as the Wet Bandits, have arrived in New York City at the same time. Although the plot of this movie was partially taken from the prequel, the writers are able to keep the attention of the audience by adding new components to the story. The movie’s New York City setting elevates the holiday spirit and makes watchers feel nostalgic of holidays as children. This film is in fourth place because it is a sequel, so it loses some of its original appeal, but its comedy and nostalgic charm keep it in the top five.
In third place is “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” In this movie, the Griswolds celebrate Christmas by having both sides of the family stay at their house. Many nostalgic elements in this movie, such as the lights and decorations in the home, make this movie a perfect watch for this holiday season. Its hilarious plot shows the ups and downs of family and the holidays. All of these elements combine to create a funny, engaging holiday movie.
Coming in second is “Elf,” starring Will Ferrell. This movie follows Buddy the Elf as he travels from the North Pole to New York City during Christmas time to find his father. From ice skating in Rockefeller Plaza to shopping in toy stores, this movie perfectly encapsulates the excitement leading up to the holidays. Its plot displays a story of bringing joy and kinship back to a world obsessed with work and material items. This movie is in second place because Buddy’s childishness can sometimes be overwhelming. Despite this, the movie sends a strong message of acceptance through an original and comedic plot.
In first place is the movie “Home Alone.” This holiday classic follows the McCallisters when they decide to go on a trip to Paris for Christmas but forget their eight-year-old son, Kevin. While Kevin is home alone, two burglars attempt to break into his house. The classic songs and snowy setting add a layer of nostalgia to this seasonal favorite. The original plot line keeps viewers interested, and it teaches watchers that even though the holiday season can be stressful, being grateful for family and friends is the most important part of it all. “Home Alone” is in first place because it fully incorporates nostalgia and holiday spirit into every element, while maintaining a relatable and funny plot.
Overall, each movie has its own unique charm, which makes any choice a great one for a cozy winter night. Because of its hilarious plot line, nostalgic feeling, and contagious holiday spirit, “Home Alone” is the best holiday movie. It’s the perfect choice to begin the holiday season this year, showing the importance of family and gratitude through a comedic and heartwarming lens.
