This Christmas season, seat yourself with a warm blanket and a popcorn in hand, to watch some of the most popular Christmas classics of all times.National Lampoons Christmas Vacation (1989)- Chevy Chase stars in this vehicle about the continuing lives of the Griswold family as they celebrate a Christmas with all their relatives. Also starring Beverly D'Angelo, Juliette Lewis, and Randy Quaid Christmas Vacation is one among the funniest films on my list.
A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)- Charles Schulz brought his comic strip to life, by writing a mad-for-television version of his Peanuts. A Charlie Brown Christmas was about his main character Charlie Brown, and what he and his friends go through one Christmas. In an industry that had been overwhelmed by adult actors playing the roles of the kids, this film made a difference by introducing children's voices. In addition to that, there were biblical references in the story that helped reflect the real meaning of Christmas.
A Christmas Carol (1938)- A Christmas Carol was written by Charles Dickens, and tells the story of old "scrooge" who wants nothing out of life but to make more money. He sacrifices his family and friends, and everyone that has ever loved him, in the pursuit of becoming richer. He is then visited by ghosts in his old age, attempting to show him the error of his ways. It depicts the importance of being there for your fellow man on Christmas, and does a great job of making a deep impression.
A Christmas Story (1983)- A movie told almost entirely from the mind of a young boy during the 1940's as he goes through his daily routine, hanging out with friends, running from bullies, and meeting Santa at the big mall on Christmas day. From wanting a Red Rider BB gun, to standing in front of the toy store windows, or eating Christmas Dinner outside, this movie does an excellent job of amalgamating a multitude of events.
It's A Wonderful Life (1946)- A story about a man who unable to bear the hard times makes a strange wish, that he had never been born. Feeling that the world would be better off without him, he wants to obliterate himself. For a short time, the angel grants him his wish, and the chance to see what life would be like if he really had never been born. Frank Capra directs, and Jimmy Stewart stars as George Bailey, a family man, who has come across some tough times. The movie instills hope and a new found belief that no matter how small we may seem in the scheme of things, each one of us has something immense to offer.
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)- A Miracle on 34th Street is about a man who claims to be none other than Kris Kringle himself. Of course nobody believes him, and it is up to a lawyer and a little girl who must set aside their logical thinking to have faith that this man could really be The Santa Clause. It is really a great story about whether or not we are willing to believe in something we can't see or prove for ourselves.
The Santa Clause (1994)- Something happens to Santa Clause and Tim Allen must now step in to save Christmas from being ruined. Slowly, he starts growing the beard and the belly, and soon enough he looks just like Santa Clause! The job of delivering presents to all of the children of the world over one night is not as easy as it seems. The film is hilarious at times, and was done well enough to have a sequel 8 years later.
How The Grinch Stole Christmas (1966)- Created in 1966, this was an animated feature based on the book by Dr. Suess. It covered the exploits of "The Grinch", who had lost its spirit for Christmas over the years. His only goal in life now, is to rid the world of Christmas joy. In order to do this, he will attempt to remove all of the gifts from the small town of Whoville.
Home Alone (1990)- A huge family that is going on a Christmas vacation with a truck load of kids. Unfortunately, on the morning of the trip, everyone wakes up late and ends up rushing around to try and make it to the airport on time. One of the kids (Kevin) is left behind, and when he awakes, he finds that he has a mansion size house all to himself. Now he must run an entire house, and defend it against thieves who are attempting to rob his family. Through it all, he comes to realize how important his family really is. He also learns some valuable lessons about life and the love for the people he holds most dear.
Frosty The Snowman (1969)- Frosty The Snowman is the tale of a magical top-hat, that when applied to the head of a snowman, brings him to life. It is a far-fetched story, but it is fun to watch, and it is endearing in everything that it presents. The best part though, is the theme song of Frosty. It is one of the great animations that came out in 60's around Christmas time, and still has a place in my home movie collection.