Introduction
Hooray, it’s that wonderful time of year again! The holiday season is here! One of the most exciting parts of the holiday season is curling up on the couch with friends and family, with hot chocolate in hand, and watching your favorite holiday movies. When it comes to picking a festive movie, you really can’t go wrong! Whether you choose timeless favorites like Miracle on 34th Street or the fun-filled Elf, any option is sure to spread some holiday cheer.
However, if you’re stuck on what movie to watch, look no further! We recently gathered some fun results from a survey we sent out to all MLHS students, and there were some clear holiday favorites! Here are the top 10 picks that students at MLHS love to watch. Enjoy!
#10: It’s a Wonderful Life
At 4 votes, It’s a Wonderful Life holds the #10 spot. This classic tells the tale of George Bailey, a businessman who considers ending his life on Christmas Eve. In the nick of time, an angel named Clarence shows him what the world would have been like if he had never been born. Ultimately, this film leaves its viewers with a heartfelt message about the value of life and the profound impact any single individual can make.
#9: A Charlie Brown Christmas
With 5 votes, A Charlie Brown Christmas is ranked #9 and ties with The Nightmare Before Christmas and A Christmas Story. In this Charlie Brown tale, our protagonist decides to direct a Christmas play with his friends. Through the struggles they face and the discoveries they make, Charlie Brown and his friends learn of the true meaning of Christmas. For anyone in need of a nostalgic childhood classic, this film is a top contender.
#8: The Nightmare Before Christmas
As the 8th most popular film, The Nightmare Before Christmas also holds 5 votes. This animated film features the worlds of both Halloween and Christmas and is a fitting choice for fans of either—or both—holidays. Bored with his everyday spooky routines, the protagonist, Jack Skellington, finds his way into Christmas Town. Although this film is not your typical heartwarming tale and has its scary moments, its creative plot and timeless morals nonetheless make it a worthy watch.
#7: A Christmas Story
Our 7th most popular film, A Christmas Story, won 5 votes as well. Set in the 1940s, this film centers around Ralphie Parker, a boy who wants a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas more than anything else. Despite being continuously rejected by adults, including with a remark from his mother that “You’ll shoot your eye out,” Ralphie continues to pursue his wish. This beloved favorite is filled with funny bits and is a top pick for a feel-good film.
#6: Die Hard
At 6 votes, Die Hard has the #6 spot. This action-packed, unconventional Christmas movie takes place on Christmas Eve, when NYPD officer John McClane, played by Bruce Willis, visits his wife at her company’s holiday party. When a group of terrorists takes over the building where the party is at, McClane must find a way to save the hostages, his wife being one of them. For anyone in need of an action-filled film with hints of Christmas, this movie is a fitting choice.
#5: Home Alone 2
With 7 votes, Home Alone 2 is placed at #5 and ties with Polar Express. As the sequel to Home Alone, this film follows Kevin McCallister as he is separated from his family once again, this time in New York City. In his journey, Kevin meets the same burglars he outsmarted in the first movie. As Kevin and the burglars face off against each other a second time, we the viewers are reeled in for a joyride. As a bundle of laughs and wits, this film is perfect for viewers in want of a lighthearted comedy.
#4: Polar Express
Our 4th most popular film, Polar Express, also won 7 votes and takes viewers on an enchanting journey to the North Pole. The curtains open on one Christmas Eve when a young boy who doubts the existence of Santa Claus boards the Polar Express, a train headed to the North Pole. Throughout this train ride, our protagonist meets other children, faces various obstacles to surmount, and learns valuable lessons about belief, friendship, and the magic of Christmas. The film features a stunning animation and a message that well embodies the spirit of Christmas.
#3: The Grinch
At #3 is The Grinch, with 10 votes. This well-known tale tells the story of a grumpy, green creature who hates Christmas. Accordingly, this character devises a plan to steal all the Christmas decorations and presents of nearby Whoville, a town that displays a festive round of Christmas celebrations every year. Will he succeed, or will something utterly unexpected occur? Watch to find out, or watch to relive this childhood classic.
#2: Elf
Elf is the second most popular film on our list, at 13 votes. This hilarious comedy revolves around Buddy, a human who was raised by elves at the North Pole. Upon finding out that he is not actually an elf, Buddy sets off to New York City to find his new father. His unwavering enthusiasm, kindness, and unusual behavior bring joy to everyone he meets and even reaches across the screen to spread laughter to viewers. Throughout his adventure, Buddy helps others rediscover the joy and magic of Christmas, while also finding for himself a sense of belonging and family in the bustling city of New York. All in all, Elf is a comedic film that twists and pulls your heartstrings and leaves you feeling warm and whole.
#1: Home Alone
Last but certainly not least, Home Alone places the highest, at 18 votes. The film follows eight-year-old Kevin McCalister, who is accidentally left behind when his family goes on their Christmas vacation to Paris. At first, Kevin enjoys the freedom of having the house to himself, but things take a turn when two burglars, Harry and Marv, try to break in. With his quick thinking and a series of creative traps, Kevin tries his best to defend his home from the burglars. At its core, this movie invites viewers to watch two criminals as they are endlessly outsmarted by a child with a witty imagination, providing its audience with plenty of laughs and satisfaction.
Conclusion
There’s nothing better than curling up on Christmas Eve and watching these classic holiday movies. They bring all the laughs, feels, and cozy vibes that make the season so special. So grab some hot chocolate and let these movies bring Christmas magic to life. Have a wonderful winter break!
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