It’s that time of year once again when home comforts become that little bit more comforting and we find ourselves dusting off our festive film collections for some warm cinematic company.
Here’s our short-list of the five films that’ll be keeping us in excellent festive spirit over the Christmas holidays.
1 It’s a Wonderful Life
What better film choice than this cinematic classic to watch during those cosy festive evenings as the fire crackles and the drinks pour. James Stewart shines as ever in the leading role as George Bailey with compelling acting throughout. The handsome legend is also styled to perfection, notably his sharp three-piece suit and slick haircut fit for any leading man. With the help of an angel, George is able to realise the positive impact he has had on so many people despite overlooking his own interests for the good of his town. After seemingly losing out to greed and contemplating the worst, George is able to look harder at the positives and appreciate the wonderful outcomes he has influenced. Simply brilliant.
2 The Muppet Christmas Carol
A classic Christmas film based on the classic Dickens novel. It doesn’t get much better than this. Crammed with an emotive balance of comedy, heartache and Christmas sing-a-long favorites, this is THE Christmas film that the whole family should watch year after year without hesitation. Michael Caine also looks tremendous as Scrooge with immense sideburns and an excellently layered outfit – that is until the visions begin.
3 Home Alone
This 90s favourite puts the emphasis on family values at Christmas time – with quite the unique twist. The willpower of an 8-year-old child accidently left alone as his family travel on a seasonal holiday is the main plot here, and Macaulay Culkin’s performance provides audiences with laughter and tears throughout. The silly yet threatening nature of ‘The Wet Bandits’ and the heart-warming personal story of Old Man Marley help cram this film with everything Christmas can stand for emotionally.
4 Miracle on 34th Street
Okay, we have to admit we haven’t even seen the original version… but just look at that beard!
5 Jingle All The Way
Arnold Schwarzenegger plays a likeable, busy Dad who gets too caught up at work and as a result constantly lets down his wife and son. With Christmas on the horizon, he misses his son’s karate show after promising to be there and then crucially leaves it too late to get the one gift Jamie and the rest of America want – a Turbo Man doll. The story unfolds from there in this superhero-meets-family values Christmas feast of a film. It reflects and highlights just how tested parents can be and the distance they’re willing to go to keep their families happy at the most stressful and expectant time of year. There’s something that every viewer can realistically relate to; From the annoying neighbour jumping on every opportunity to out-do Arnie, to the rivalry with fellow-parent Myron who is attempting to get hold of the same doll. It’s safe to say that this is one for the parents just as much as the kids.