What Are My Favorite Christmas Movies to Watch Yearly?

You might wonder why, in the midst of so many Christmas movies available, I carefully select a handful of titles each year. My choices are rooted in personal preferences, nostalgia, and the desire for unique storytelling. Typically, my yearly Christmas movie schedule includes no more than three full-length films and one television episode, each chosen for its own distinct charm and significance.

Among my must-sees are classics such as The 1938 'A Christmas Carol' with Reginald Owen, a true throwback to a time when holiday movies captivated audiences with their charm and simplicity. These classic tales of redemption and joy continue to hold a special place in my heart, much like a cherished family heirloom passed down through generations.

Of course, no list of my favorite Christmas movies would be complete without mentioning Die Hard. It's not a traditional Christmas film in the usual sense, but I have come to regard it as a unique and almost cinematic tradition. Watching John McClane take on the holiday entreprise might not have the same cozy, family-friendly appeal as some others, but it’s an action-packed alternative that helps me forget about the dreary winter weather outside.

Unique Christmas Stories

Other than the classics, I enjoy the opportunity to explore unique and less mainstream films. One such gem is A Very Supernatural Christmas, which offers an interesting and unexpected twist on the traditional Christmas narrative. This film does a fantastic job of blending the spirit of Christmas with a supernatural tale, making it a memorable watch.

I also appreciate the opportunity to watch shorter films and television specials. For instance, the The Grinch Who Stole Christmas featuring Jim Carrey is a favorite both for its hilarious dialogue and the well-crafted story. And while many households might watch holiday shows from the 1950s and 1960s, those of us who grew up in the digital age often find them more rigid and limited compared to today's offerings.

Interestingly, some of the films I watch during the holiday season might not be the most traditional choices, but they certainly have their own charm. All I Want for Christmas is You is one such film that appeals with its blend of romance and heartwarming moments. I might also revisit Elf, a film that provides an unexpected twist on the Elf from the North Pole, making it particularly engaging.

Evaluating Christmas Movies

When choosing Christmas movies, I tend to gravitate towards those that offer something different or that have a strong emotional impact. For instance, films like Elf and Home Alone are crowd favorites, but I find them too predictable after a few viewings. Similarly, while Christmas Vacation and Elf are beloved, I have seen them numerous times and prefer to view them sparingly.

Other films, such as Die Hard, have become a tradition for me. It's not a movie about holiday cheer, but its excitement and adrenaline rush offer a nice counterpoint to more conventional Christmas films. I also enjoy the Charlie Brown Christmas Special and Scrooged, both of which provide nostalgic enjoyment.

For those looking for something entirely different, the Lost at Christmas comes highly recommended. It's a Scottish romantic comedy that may not have garnered the same level of recognition as its American counterparts but is a delightful entry in the genre. It's lighter, more romantic, and offers a unique romantic twist that aligns well with the Christmas spirit.

Ultimately, my selection of Christmas movies each year is driven by a love for classic tales, the desire for something new and unexpected, and, of course, the joy of indulging in the holiday spirit. If you're looking for recommendations, be sure to check out these films—it might just make your holiday season even more memorable.