Top 10 best Christmas movies
With the cold nights drawing in, there has never been a better time to close the curtains, stick the kettle on and get yourself cosy with one of these Christmas cinematic classics.
Whether you’re hosting a movie night with the whole family or taking an evening to relax from all the stress of Christmas planning, there’s something on our list you’ll love.
1. The Snowman (1982)
One boy’s magical Christmas Eve with his snowman is a short but poignant trip and one we all should take. Accompanied by Aled Jones’ now iconic rendition of the “Walking in the Air”, The Snowman can’t fail to get you in the yuletide spirit. Be sure to catch the sequel The Snowman and the Snowdog if you can, it may not hold the same status as the original but is still delivers a great little slice of Christmas magic.
2. White Christmas (1954)
The most Christmassy Christmas film ever made. Chocked full of great songs, characters and humour, White Christmas may not be the best movie on this list but it will put you in the festive mood like no other.
3. About a Boy (2002)
Not entirely set at Christmas as much as revolving around the festive period, this coming of age story focuses on an immature man’s growing friendship with a timid young boy; a fun and heart-warming tale adapted from the Nick Hornby novel.
4. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
The story of The Pumpkin King growing tired of Halloween and hosting a yuletide celebration of his own is a fun and alternative celebration of Christmas. Memorable songs, good humour and beautiful stop-motion animation create a unique experience that shouldn’t be missed and is a great one to watch with the Grandkids.
5. We’re no Angels (1955)
Humphrey Bogart, Peter Ustinov and Aldo Ray star as three escaped convicts that look to exploit a local family before finding the Christmas spirit and using their criminal talents for good. A sometimes overlooked classic, it’s still a great festive story and well worth watching if you can.
6. Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
Technically a Thanksgiving Film, but Planes, Trains and Automobiles is too much fun to leave out. Following an up-tight ad executive and a boorish salesman as they travel across the country, this film walks the line between humour and sentiment beautifully and is a great way to get in the festive spirit.
7. Joyeux Noel (2005)
Following six people on the the backdrop of the famous Christmas Truce, Joyeux Noel is a powerful and important story that explores the sacrifices made by many throughout the war and shows how Christmas brought them all together. As this year marks the centenary of WWI, there has never been a more fitting time to watch this film.
8. Hugo (2011)
This biopic of the French director Georges Méliès is, by far, the most visually captivating film on this list. Set in 1920s Paris, it is equal parts a tribute to the legendary filmmaker and an insight in to his wild and elegant imagination. Hugo is a beautiful and charming love letter to a director who made the world a more magical place and is a must watch for all the family this Christmas.
9. It’s a Wonderful life (1946)
George Bailey’s journey of self-discovery is tragic, moving and ultimately creates the quintessential Christmas film. Often imitated but never surpassed, if there’s one film to watch this Christmas, it’s this one.
10. Love Actually (2003)
Love Actually is set in London and tells the story of eight different couples, all intertwined, and follows their journey through the frantic festive period. Showing that love comes in all different shapes and sizes, it’s a great uplifting film to watch and one of the best festive romantic comedies.
Did we miss out any Christmas classics? Let us know in the comments below!
Rachel - Silversurfers Assistant Editor
Latest posts by Rachel - Silversurfers Assistant Editor (see all)
- What’s your favourite scary film? - October 26, 2024
- Easy Traybakes for National Baking Week - October 14, 2024
- Practical tips for living with arthritis - October 11, 2024
- 10th October is World Mental Health Awareness Day - October 8, 2024
- The best of Simon & Garfunkel Playlist - September 28, 2024
