The holiday season just isn’t quite complete without a cozy night in with a cup of hot chocolate in hand and watching a classic Christmas movie.
We probably all have our favourites from A Christmas Carol to Home Alone and Love Actually. Christmas movies have a magical way of bringing people together, and what better way to spend the holiday?
With so many festive favourites out there, it’s tough to pick just a few—but we’ve narrowed it down to the ultimate top 10 Christmas movies of all time.
Take a look and see if yours makes the list.
Home Alone
Home Alone is an absolute classic. The 1990 film follows the misadventures of a young boy named Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) who is accidentally left home alone. However, things don’t go as expected when he comes face-to-face with two burglars and is forced to protect his home.
It’s a Wonderful Life
It’s a Wonderful Life follows the story of George Bailey (James Stewart), a man who has spent his life helping others but feels lost when he is faced with financial ruin. At his lowest point, an angel named Clarence shows him what life would have been like if he had never been born.
Love Actually
Love Actually weaves together multiple love stories set during the holiday season. The 2003 film tells the lives of several characters – from a newlywed couple to a heartbroken stepfather – during the highs and lows of love and relationships.
Die Hard
Die Hard is a memorable action film that has become a holiday favorite for many. Released in 1988, the movie follows NYPD officer John McClane (Bruce Willis) as he attempts to rescue hostages taken by terrorists during a Christmas party at a Los Angeles skyscraper.
Elf
Released in 2003, the film follows Buddy (Will Ferrell), a human raised by elves at the North Pole. He travels to New York City to find his biological father, Walter Hobbs, who doesn’t know he exists.
A Christmas Carol
A Christmas Carol is about Ebenezer Scrooge, a greedy man who hates Christmas. On Christmas Eve, three ghosts visit him, each showing him his past, present, and future. These visits help Scrooge realize how his actions hurt others and teach him the importance of kindness and the Christmas spirit.
Miracle on 34th Street
Miracle on 34th Street was released in 1994 and tells the story of a man named Kris Kringle (played by Richard Attenborough), who claims to be the real Santa Claus and is hired as a department store Santa. When doubts about his identity arise, a young attorney (played by Dylan McDermott) takes on the case to prove that belief in Santa is not just for children.
The Muppets Christmas Carol
The Muppets Christmas Carol is a whimsical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic novella. Released in 1992, this musical comedy features Michael Caine as Ebenezer Scrooge, who is visited by the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future. This version is different from the original movie as it includes the Muppet cast, with Kermit the Frog as Bob Cratchit and Miss Piggy as his wife, as well as Gonzo narrating the story.
Home Alone 2: Lost in New York
Released in 1992, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York follows Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) after he is again separated from his family, this time finding himself alone in New York City. When he decides to explore the city, he crosses paths with the bumbling burglars Harry and Marv, who have escaped from prison and are planning a heist. But that won’t likely happen on Kevin’s watch.
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is a hilarious holiday comedy that has become a Christmas tradition for many. Released in 1989, the film follows Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase) as he tries to create the perfect Christmas for his family, despite a series of chaotic and often disastrous events.
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