The holidays are a joyous time, perfect for spending the cold days inside with loved ones, and cozying up on the couch to watch nostalgic movies. But lots of precious time is wasted finding the right movie to watch. Including old favorites and unforgettable names, we have compiled a top 5 list of movies that you are sure to enjoy during this holiday season.
1. Elf (2003) – directed by Jon Favreau
Like most movies on this list, Elf holds a nostalgic factor for countless people. The comedy that was released over 20 years ago is a staple in holiday movies, and if you happen to have not seen it yet, it is a must. Elf is a 2000’s film about a child who was raised in the North Pole among elves, who eventually visits New York in search of his father. The comedic scenes bring fun while the Christmas setting reinforces the holiday spirit! You can enjoy this festive film on streaming platforms such as Hulu and Max.
2. Home Alone (1990) – directed by Chris Colombus
Home Alone has a special place in a lot of people’s hearts because of its warm and sentimental feeling that it provides its watchers. The movie is a family-flick all about a little child, Kevin, who is accidentally left home alone for the holidays. During the film we see Kevin comically battle two older men while they try to rob his home. The movie will have you cherish the holidays and share laughs with your family and friends. If you have yet to see the movie, you definitely should. You can view the movie on multiple streaming apps including Disney+ or Amazon Prime.
3. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) – directed by Ron Howard
How The Grinch Stole Christmas is a thoughtful film that has a deeper meaning to it. This movie is a live-action adaptation of one of Dr. Seuss’s most loved books. The story follows The Grinch, a creature who hates Christmas and its cheerful feeling. The Grinch decides to steal holiday themed materials from a city who is particularly fond of christmas. But even after the materials were stolen, Whoville, the city that enjoys Chrweistmas, still continues to persevere and celebrate the holiday. This shows the Grinch that the holiday spirit is much more centered around love and its community, rather than materialistic things. This movie brings people feelings of reminiscence, which is why it’s a must-watch during these times. You can see the movie either on Apple TV or Fandango.
4. The Polar Express (2004) – directed by Robert Zemeckis
The Polar Express is based on a book, but unlike most movie adaptations, the film keeps the magic and wonder that the book holds. It is centered around the story of a young boy who boards a magic train to the North Pole, and meets many friends who he faces challenges and adventures with along the way. It is a classic holiday movie that has important and comforting themes such as faith, childhood wonder, and friendship. It’s the ideal holiday comfort film and can be streamed on Hulu and Max.
5. Daddy’s Home 2 (2017) – directed by Sean Anders
Daddy’s Home 2 a is a comedy centered movie that continues the story of the co-dad’s Brad and Dusty. In this film, Brad and Dusty decide to have a “together Christmas” for their kids. They take a nice vacation to the snow for the holidays, but they soon find out that maybe a “together Christmas” wasn’t the best idea after all. While this movie might be aimed for more mature watchers, it still talks about many valuable lessons like parenting styles, love, and forgiveness while sharing a funny, yet interesting story. To watch this perfect movie the season, it is available on Paramount+ and Pluto TV.