As anyone who knows me can testify, I am definitely a major Christmas fanatic: music, movies, parties, cookies, everything. Although I love all Christmas movies, there are definitely better ones than others with different moods and themes.
Depending on your mood, a Christmas movie can either break your heart, make your heart soar, make you believe in miracles, or bring out the child of anyone. Therefore, I categorized my favorite movies (I've literally watched almost every Christmas movie ever) into different genres depending on your mood.
Comedy
1. Elf
Can you beat Elf? I'm really not sure. Elf is easily one of my favorite Christmas movies, as it not only incorporates both adult and childish humor, but also emphasizes how the Christmas spirit is so much more than just gifts; it's love, generosity, and second chances.
2. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
This movie is most likely more enjoyable with a more mature group of family members, as it takes a comedic approach on an oh too familiar situation for many families.
3. A Christmas Story
A classic tale of wanting something you just aren't allowed to have. Throw in some bullies, a frozen pole, and some crazy neighborhood dogs, well that's what makes it memorable.
Love/Romance
1. Love Actually
The classic British love story may take some getting used to, but it is definitely a love story classic. Filled with twists and turns, it'll keep you guessing until the very end.
2. The Holiday
I'm not one for cheesy rom-coms, but I legitimately love this movie. It's cute and sweet without being too over the top and holiday cheesy.
3. Holiday in Handcuffs
Love Melissa Joan Hart and Mario Lopez? Need I say more?
4. Any Christmas Hallmark movie ever
My family loves the Hallmark channel for holiday movies, and if you are into this cute and heartwarming genre, then all you have to do is flip to this channel and you're set.
Family Classics
1. The Polar Express
You can never go wrong with The Polar Express. It ultimately confronts every child's fear that Santa may not be real, but it ends up bringing out the child in anyone and is able to make any nonbeliever believe in the magic of Christmas.
2. Home Alone
I don't think there's any movie that is able to create such an innocently scary scene than preparing to fend off burglars with elaborate schemes (after many microwavable mac and cheese dinners of course).
3. A Charlie Brown Christmas
Rarely has there ever been a speech even comparable to Linus' that will make you reevaluate the entire meaning of Christmas. Heartwarming, sweet, and a great pick-me-up.
4. Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Personally, I prefer the classic animated version, but both are classics that once again demonstrate the power of Christmas.
Claymation
Personally, I love love love claymation movies; the classic songs, the simple storylines, and the overall design of them.
1. The Year Without a Santa Claus
Such an underrated movie, it If you ever catch yourself wondering where "I'm Mr. Green Christmas" and "I'm Mr. White Christmas" came from, it's from this classic.
2. Santa Claus is Coming to Town
Ever wonder how Kris Kringle became Santa? This movie answers any questions you'll ever have about his existence.
3. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
This movie explains not only the significance of Rudolph, but of all of his misfit friends, as well.
Classics
1. Miracle on 34th Street
When you think of Christmas classics, it is almost impossible to not think of this one. Filled with lots of love, sentiment, and doubt, it is a classic nobody should go without seeing.
2. It's a Wonderful Life
Of course, a classic tearjerker and emotional rollercoaster, this classic reminds us all the value each one of us possess.
3. Holiday Inn
Personally, I'm a huge fan of old movies, and this movie combines elements of comedy with love with the classic old movie touch.
4. White Christmas
Again, if you enjoy older movies, I definitely recommend watching this comedic love classic.
Christmas movies not about Christmas but still good
1. Trading Places
I actually love this movie, because of the witty humor, Christmas vibes, and overall themes of the movie.
2. Die Hard
In the mood to stop watching lovey sentimental Christmas movies? Here's one to change that right up.
3. You've Got Mail
No not technically a Christmas movie, but some of it occurs during Christmas, and really everyone needs to see this movie in my opinion.
Honestly, you cannot go wrong when it comes to Christmas movies, because regardless of what kind of mood you are in, they all remind us that the best time of the year is quickly approaching.
