Christmas is the most joyful holiday of the year. As the Christmas trees and gingerbread men are decorated and the warm apple cider is indulged, beloved Christmas films complement the season to shine light on what the holiday is really all about. Take a break from all of the shopping and the gala planning and get into the spirit by watching some of the greatest classic Christmas Films to grace the big screen.
“Miracle On 34th Street” (1947)
“Miracle On 34th Street” is truly a gem when it comes to Christmas film classics. Even though it has been continually remade, the classic version still remains the most beloved. This film follows Doris Walker who is a loving mother refusing to let her daughter believe in the magical Santa Claus. She soon comes across Kris Kringle who is institutionalized after claiming to be the real Santa. The rest of the story follows Doris and her daughter as they fight to have Gwenn released and during this process, Doris has her faith in magic restored as she realizes that he just might be the real Santa. This is a truly beautiful story that helps capture the miracles and magic that surrounds Christmas. Enjoy this classic featuring actors Edmund Gwenn, Maureen O'Hara, John Payne, and writer and director George Seaton.
“A Christmas Story” (1983)
Everyone can relate to Ralphie Parker of “A Christmas Story” as he goes to great lengths in order to receive the one Christmas gift he absolutely must have: a shot range air rival. The adults around him, even the department store santa, continue to warn him that he is going to shoot his eye out with such a gift but he remains determined. Through all of Ralphie’s obstacles and horrid gifts, he finds that nothing is more delightful than Christmas morning. This is a timeless classic that is both quirky and joyful, wonderfully acted by Peter Billingsley, Melinda Dillon, and Darren McGavin.
“It’s A Wonderful Life” (1946)
No Christmas season is complete without the viewing of this much adored classic. This story follows George Bailey who is swamped by personal and financial troubles. He soon gets help from his guardian angel who shows him what life would have been like for others if he had never been born. He soon realizes how much he affects those around him in a positive manner and is taught the true meaning of Christmas. “It’s A Wonderful Life” is a heart-warming story that inspires everyone to embrace the positives of life even when it seems like there is only negative. James Stewart, Donna Reed, and Lionel Barrymore do an amazing job on this magical story directed by Frank Capra and written by Frances Goodrich.
“A Christmas Carol” (1984)
This classic Christmas Film is an adaption of the popular Charles Dicken’s novel. The film stars Ebenezer Scrooge who is a rather mean businessman with a strong dislike for Christmas. Due to his ungrateful demeanour and shrewd stinginess, he is visited by the spirit of his deceased business partner who shows him the more important things in life. As the audience watches Scrooge transform from ungrateful and rude to appreciative and kind, they are reminded of what is truly important each holiday season. Originally, A Christmas Carol debuted in 1934 but this 1984 classic is hard to beat featuring actors George C. Scott, Frank Finlay, Angela Pleasence, and director Clive Donner.
“National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation” (1989)
Another classic, we get a peek at what goes on behind the scenes of the ‘perfect’ family Christmas holiday in suburbia. Family values and Christmas traditions are accurately depicted in this film as the audience witnesses the Griswald family cover their house in lights, pick out the perfect tree and attempt to overcome family issues. This movie teaches that, despite the sometimes, stressful holidays or dysfunctional families, the Christmas spirit can overcome any obstacles. Written by John Hughes and directed by Jeremiah Chechik, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation featured actors Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo, Juliette Lewis and others.