Favorite Christmas Movies: 20 Ranked List

CNAES

You need 5 min read

·

Post on Dec 24, 2024

41 visitor like this post

Share

Favorite Christmas Movies: A Ranked List of 20 Holiday Classics

Christmas is a time for family, friends, and of course, cozying up to watch some of our favorite holiday films. But with so many Christmas movies out there, how do you choose the perfect one? To help you navigate the festive filmography, we've compiled a ranked list of 20 beloved Christmas movies, guaranteed to get you in the holiday spirit. This list blends classic favorites with some newer gems, catering to a variety of tastes. Get ready to settle in with a mug of hot cocoa and prepare for a cinematic Christmas countdown!

20. The Santa Clause (1994)

This fun, family-friendly film follows a divorced dad who accidentally becomes Santa Claus. It's a charming story with a heartwarming message about responsibility and the spirit of Christmas. While not a traditional Christmas story, its festive spirit earns it a spot on the list.

19. A Christmas Story (1983)

A cult classic, A Christmas Story depicts the hilarious misadventures of young Ralphie Parker as he desperately tries to get a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. Its relatable humor and nostalgic charm make it a perennial favorite.

18. The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)

This musical adaptation of Dickens' classic tale brings the Muppets' unique brand of humor and heart to the story of Ebenezer Scrooge. It's a perfect blend of festive cheer and timeless storytelling. Great for families looking for a slightly different take on a well-known tale.

17. Jingle All the Way (1996)

Arnold Schwarzenegger stars in this comedic adventure as a desperate father scrambling to find the hottest toy of the season for his son. It's a chaotic and hilarious ride, perfect for those looking for some laugh-out-loud Christmas fun.

16. Home Alone (1990)

A classic for a reason! This action-comedy follows a young boy who is accidentally left home alone during the Christmas holidays and must defend his house from burglars. The slapstick humor and inventive traps make it a must-watch.

15. Elf (2003)

Will Ferrell shines in this hilarious comedy as Buddy Hobbs, a human raised as an elf in the North Pole who travels to New York City to find his father. Expect plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments.

14. Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

This heartwarming classic tells the story of Kris Kringle, a man who claims to be Santa Claus, and the impact he has on a skeptical community. It's a timeless tale of faith, belief, and the magic of Christmas.

13. The Year Without a Santa Claus (1974)

This animated special is a fun and imaginative take on what happens when Santa Claus decides to take a year off. It's a great choice for families with younger children.

12. It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

A black-and-white masterpiece that explores the meaning of life and the importance of community, this film remains incredibly relevant today. Though it's more than just a "Christmas movie," its setting and themes firmly place it in the holiday canon.

11. The Polar Express (2004)

This visually stunning animated film follows a young boy who takes a magical train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. The breathtaking animation and heartwarming story make it a truly special film.

10. Arthur Christmas (2011)

A surprisingly sophisticated and hilarious animated film showing the behind-the-scenes operation of Santa's workshop. It's funny for adults, while still being engaging for children.

9. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

Jim Carrey's over-the-top performance as the Grinch is memorable and hilarious. It’s a fun and visually stunning adaptation of the classic Dr. Seuss tale.

8. Love Actually (2003)

This ensemble romantic comedy interweaves multiple storylines that all connect in a heartwarming and often hilarious way during the Christmas season. Perfect for romantic evenings.

7. The Christmas Chronicles (2018)

This Netflix original film offers a fresh take on the Santa Claus story, featuring Kurt Russell as a fun and modern Santa. The sequel is also worth a watch!

6. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

This classic animated special features the beloved Peanuts gang and offers a thoughtful and heartwarming reflection on the true meaning of Christmas.

5. Die Hard (1988)

While debated by some, Die Hard takes place on Christmas Eve, and the action, heroism, and unexpected humor make it a fun holiday choice for those who enjoy action films. It's definitely unique!

4. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

A stop-motion animation masterpiece that blends Halloween and Christmas themes in a unique and visually stunning way. A great choice for those who appreciate darker, yet still festive, films.

3. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989)

This hilarious comedy follows the Griswold family's chaotic attempts to have the perfect Christmas. Expect plenty of slapstick humor and relatable holiday frustrations.

2. While You Were Sleeping (1995)

A romantic comedy classic, this heartwarming tale focuses on a transit worker who unexpectedly becomes involved in the life of a wealthy family during the Christmas season. Prepare for some cozy holiday romance.

1. It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

While often associated with Christmas, its powerful themes of hope and community transcend the holiday season. Its enduring message makes it the ultimate Christmas film, even decades later.

This list is, of course, subjective, and your own favorite Christmas movies might differ. What are your top picks? Share them in the comments below! Happy Holidays!