There’s nothing better on a weekend in December than relaxing with some of the best classic holiday movies. I’m always up for the Hallmark-style romantic comedies, and some of the festive movies even bring me to tears. (Noel Diary made me *feel* like 2022.) But there’s one feeling I’m most looking for: comfort and connection during the Christmas season. It’s nostalgia. And of course, nothing makes us feel nostalgic for the good old days like a classic Christmas movie.
Tradition, at least in my experience, creates a feeling of aspiration. After returning home and spending quality time with your family (baking your favorite treats, exchanging meaningful gifts, and valuing each other’s presence), you can express your gratitude for all the good things that exist in life. I move into the new year with high spirits. And that sentiment is as true as ever when I’m cuddling up between my sisters and parents, quoting word for word the best classic holiday movies.
Featured image by Michelle Nash.
The best classic holiday movies to stream this season
Classic holiday movies include A Christmas Story (my dad’s all-time favorite), The Holiday (which my mom, sisters, and I watch at least 10 times a year), and the ever-loved Elf. It’s our Christmas comfort zone. Once the cookies are baked, the presents are wrapped, and Christmas dinner is all set, there’s nothing left to do but put your feet up and enjoy a few hours of cinematic bliss.
I have to imagine this is true for many people as well. If so, keep scrolling. Consider this your guide to the best classic holiday movies.
Christmas movies on Disney+
Home Alone (1990)
That’s right, before Catherine O’Hara rose to prominence on Schitt’s Creek, she played the mother of Macaulay Culkin’s Kevin McCallister. Even with Kevin’s problematic tendencies and slapstick jokes, I will forever be fascinated by O’Hara’s perfect early 90s style. And of course, John Hughes certainly knows a thing or two about creating 80s/90s masterpieces. Along with Pretty in Pink and The Breakfast Club, Home Alone is one of his best works.
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
This crowd-pleasing classic has all the makings of a perfect holiday movie. New York City at Christmas, the wonders of what was once Macy’s department store, and a charming black-and-white presentation. When her mother hires an older man to play Santa Claus, she discovers that the man not only looks a lot like a giant man with a white beard, but claims to be Kris Kringle himself. This movie is an example of the beauty of maintaining a childlike sense of wonder, especially during the holidays.
Santa Claus (1994)
No matter what you say, Tim Allen is a surefire choice for St. Nick. Scott Calvin (Allen), a successful toy salesman, wants to keep Santa’s magic alive for his son, despite his ex-wife’s objections. After a bizarre and comedic twist (we all remember the note: “The reindeer will know what to do”), Scott assumes the role of Santa. However, the responsibility becomes heavier than expected. This is a hilarious and touching story about the lengths that parents go to for their children.
Beauty and the Beast: Magical Christmas (1997)
You didn’t expect Beauty and the Beast to be on this list, did you? Belle discovers that the Beast has a deep-seated hatred for Christmas (understandably so), and tells the Beast that this season I will do my best to show you the magic. Expect lots of uplifting songs and countless cute moments from Mrs. Potts (voiced by the late Angela Lansbury – absolutely delightful).
Christmas movies on Hulu
Die Hard (1988)
Well, we need your opinion. Does this actually count as a Christmas movie? There’s no shortage of evidence cited on the internet to support this claim. First, it’s about a New York City police officer who returns to his family for Christmas (plus, he has to save his family after being taken hostage by terrorists during a Christmas party…). His wife’s name is Holly and it happens on Christmas Eve. I think it’s up to you.
The Nutcracker (1993)
Plot-wise, the classic Christmas ballet is no different from the stories you know and love. But with 13-year-old Macaulay Culkin playing Drosselmeyer’s nephew, there’s some fun pop culture crossover that makes it worth a rewatch.
Jingle All the Way (1996)
Countless television specials have been inspired by this plot. A man is desperately searching for a high-demand Turbo Man action figure for his son (reminiscent of when Dwight bought the Princess Unicorn market and sold them on TV for huge profits). please) office? ). The humor is very 90’s, which might be one of the best things about this movie.
Amazon Prime Christmas Movies
Santa Claus: The Movie (1985)
It’s a Christmas crisis. An immoral toymaker manipulates one of his right-hand elves to destroy Santa Claus and take over Christmas. This movie has become something of a cult favorite, so join the club and press play.
Love Actually (2003)
I could write a book about why Love Actually is one of the best classic holiday movies. First up is the all-star cast. Hugh Grant, Colin Firth, Emma Thompson, Keira Knightley, Liam Neeson and the list goes on. If you’ve ever fallen in love during the holiday season, or experienced that special Christmas magic that makes everyone feel warm and fuzzy, then watch this movie. Cynics like to be realistic this time of year, but believe the hype that this is the best of the best.
The Holiday (2006)
Another star-studded Christmas movie. Jude Law, Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet and Jack Black all co-star in this Nancy Meyers gem. When two women switch places for Christmas (one in Los Angeles, the other in the suburbs of London), they get a chance to escape from their lives and find the love they’ve been waiting for. It’s romantic, heartwarming, and cheesy in the best sense of the word. Even if you’re not familiar with Meyers’ aesthetic, this film will instantly immerse you in his world.
It’s a Wonderful Life (1947)
I have mixed feelings about this movie, mostly due to the fact that it was made over 80 years ago. On the bright side, this is the story of a man who got a second chance at life. I see my life changed and the positive impact he had on the world.
Snowman (1982)
There are about three movies that I consider to be my favorites of the holiday season, and The Snowman definitely ranks at the top. When a boy builds a snowman on the day before Christmas, it magically comes to life and sets him on an all-night adventure around the world. Although it’s a silent film, it features gorgeous music that will stick with you throughout the holidays. No, that’s not a bad thing.
White Christmas (1954)
The classic Christmas movie to end all classic Christmas movies. There’s a soft space in my heart reserved specifically for White Christmas because 1) Bing Crosby, and 2) it takes place in Vermont. Two war buddies follow their lovers (a performing sister duo) to a New England resort run by a former commander. Knowing he may lose the place, they intervene to save the failing inn.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
It wasn’t until I was old that I found out that Taylor Momsen (little Jenny Humphrey from the original Gossip Girl series) played Cindy Lou Who. This discovery alone has me wanting to see Jim Carrey in green again soon. Come to think of it, he’s perfect in this movie. I love the animated version, but nothing beats Carrey’s theatrics throughout this movie.
Max’s Christmas Movie
Elf (2003)
How much do we need to say about this movie that hasn’t already been said? It’s Will Ferrell at his finest, funniest, most endearing and — in a hot interpretation — Zooey.・Deschanel’s most attractive appearance. If this movie doesn’t turn you into a Christmas maniac, I don’t know what will.
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
Every dad’s favorite Christmas movie. A dysfunctional family (supported by a loving father and a perpetually irritable teenage daughter), gaudy holiday lights, and a fight to make this year’s Christmas the best. It’s funny, silly, and captures the late 80’s perfectly.
Polar Express (2004)
I vividly remember sitting on the floor of my fifth grade classroom with a hot cocoa in hand, watching The Polar Express. The unique animation style makes it an acquired taste. However, the music and story are top notch.
A Christmas Story (1983)
Let’s end this list of the best classic holiday movies on perhaps the best note. Set in the 1940s, Ralphie plans to give him a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas, a toy his parents decide is too dangerous (“I’ll shoot you in the eye, kid!”). Like Elf, this movie has a lot going for it. Here are some of the most quotable lines from Christmas movies. If you’d like, please let us know your favorite lines in the comments section. By the way, if you’ve met anyone who doesn’t like this movie, please let me know. Because I’m at a loss.
