As the weather gets cooler, there’s no better way to embrace the holiday season than by watching classic festive films. Both humorous and heartwarming, these movies are ideal for those who prefer Christmas over Thanksgiving.
Home Alone
Eight year old Kevin McCallister is forgotten at his home when his loud family travels to Paris for the holiday season. As a result, he finds himself home alone inside the empty walls. Throughout the film, the young boy finally begins to understand the significance of family when protecting himself from two intruders. While watching this movie, viewers were very entertained when Kevin made such unique plans to keep the intruders out of his house.
Where to watch: Disney+, YouTube, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video and Fandango at Home.
The Polar Express
“The Polar Express” tells the tale of a young boy that has been struggling with his belief in Santa Claus. On Christmas Eve, he travels upon a magical train that reveals the fascinating truth of the holiday by taking him to the North Pole. He discovers meaningful connections with his peers and discovers the true meaning of Christmas. Many enjoy this animated movie because it explores the theme of belief, which is very important.
Where to watch: YouTube, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Fandango at Home and Google Play.
Elf
“Elf” features Buddy the Elf, a human who was raised by elves in the North Pole by accident. Upon discovering that he doesn’t fit in with Santa’s elves, Buddy travels to New York City to find his biological father. Elf is an iconic Christmas movie because of its unique humour.
Where to watch: HBO MAX, YouTube, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Fandango at Home and Google Play.
A Christmas Story
“A Christmas Story” is centered around a nine year old boy named Ralphie Parker, whose greatest wish is to receive a Red Ryder air rifle. Set in the 1930s, the film depicts the experience of childhood and family life during the festive season. Inspired by the works of Jean Shepherd and brought to life by director Bob Clark, this film has secured its place as a holiday classic by audiences. Many enjoy this film because of the presents that his family gives him on the holiday.
Where to Watch: YouTube, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Fandango at Home and Google Play.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Originally a book written by Dr. Seuss in 1957, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” was adapted into a live action film featuring Jim Carrey. In this movie, the Grinch lives on an isolated mountain overlooking Whoville, planning to ruin Christmas for all the citizens in the nearby town. However, a young girl named Cindy Lou Who and the rest of the Whoville community try to convince him to see the charm of celebrating Christmas. This movie reminds watchers of the joy that the holiday season can bring and how people connect because of it. Additionally, we have read Dr. Seuss’s entertaining books, which are available to Southwest students in the Media Center.
Where to watch: Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Fandango at Home and Google Play.