10 Films Filled with Festive Cheer
Before we know it Christmas is going to be upon us. While some may disagree, James and I believe now is the time to begin getting into the Christmas spirit so we get to enjoy the season for longer! What better way to get into the mood of mistletoe and reindeer than with a series of atmospheric and sentimental films? In chronological order, here are James and my top 10 favourite films for the cheeriest season of all:
It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
Nominated by: Jeordy and James
"Strange, isn't it? Each man's life touches so many other lives. When he isn't around he leaves an awful hole, doesn't he?"
This classic Christmas film focuses on George, who wishes himself into non-existence. Clarence, an angel who's a bit of a mess up, helps George realise how important he is in the lives of his loved ones. Not only does it touch the heart and have an uplifting message of the importance of every individual in the lives of others, it encapsulates that enchanting quality black and white films share.
A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
Nominated by: Jeordy
"Charlie Brown, you're the only person I know who can take a wonderful season like Christmas and turn it into a problem. Maybe Lucy's right. Of all the Charlie Browns in the world, you're the Charlie Browniest."
This timeless film adorably and comically captures the issues of mid-century commercialism, friendship, and the true meaning of Christmas. Moreover, it's only about 30 minutes long, and available on Youtube, making it perfect for slipping a little Christmas spirit into your busy day.
The Grinch (1966)
Nominated by: Jeordy
"Then he did the same thing to the other Whos' houses: leaving crumbs much too small for the other Whos' mouses!"
If you haven't seen this film, you should be ashamed of yourself!! It's one of the most iconic stories of overcoming commercialism and coming to understand that Christmas comes without tags. The entire film is narrated in rhymes, and is delightfully colourful and charming.
The Snowman (1982)
Nominated by: James
"It was a magical day... and it was on that day I made the snowman."
If you want to treat your eyes, ears and soul, sit down for a half-hour and watch this incredibly sweet, almost entirely wordless, short. You will follow the Christmas Eve adventures of a young boy and his snowman creation.
Home Alone (1990)
Nominated by: James
"It's my house, and I have to defend it."
Although not strictly about Christmas, this festive film hilariously embraces the importance of family and sharing the holidays with them, as well as the difficulties of growing up.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Nominated by: Jeordy and James
"What's this? What's this? There's color everywhere! What's this? There's white things in the air!"
It's appropriate for Halloween and Christmas and if you disagree I'll fight you. This magnificent example of claymation combines spooky with winter whimsy, and addresses the inclusivity of Christmas spirit and holiday cheer. It also has an unforgettable soundtrack.
The Grinch (2000)
Nominated by: James
"Now you listen to me, young lady! Even if we're *horribly mangled*, there'll be no sad faces on Christmas."
The more recent live-action counterpart to the original animated Grinch, this film captures the same concepts with less rhyme and more comedy. With Jim Carey as the Grinch, this version is geared towards an adult sense of humour, making it great for those in need of a laugh this Holiday Season.
Love Actually (2003)
Nominated by: Jeordy and James
"If you look for it, I've got a sneaky feeling you'll find that love actually is all around."
This sentimental film explores how the magic of the holidays interacts with relationships and love through its innovative style featuring multiple story lines which end up inextricably intertwined. It's got big names (Hugh Grant, Keira Knightly, Alan Rickman, and Emma Thompson to name only a few), unexpected turns of fate, and a strongly uplifting conclusion.
Elf (2003)
Nominated by: James
"The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!"
A film with strong family connotations, this very goofy film focuses on a man who was raised to believe he is an elf. After the harsh discovery that he is not, he journeys to New York City to find and reconnect with his biological family. It has lots of cringe-worthy moments, while still remaining relatable and cheerful.
Polar Express (2004)
Nominated by: James
"Seeing is believing, but sometimes the most real things in the world we can't see."
While others and I might describe the animation style of this film as "unnerving," it does indeed tell the lovely and magical story of a child who has his faith in Christmas restored through a sequence of unexpected events.
Rise of the Guardians (2012)
Nominated by: Jeordy
"We are very busy bringing joy to children. We don't have time... for children."
This is one of those films you can watch any time of year, but at its core, it is Christmassy. It covers hope, fear, joy, and snow days. It has an all-star cast and beautiful animation, and its originality (Santa reinterpreted as a heavily tattooed Russian man with a yeti army at his disposal) makes it more than just another animated Christmas film.
