As the festive season unfolds, there’s a certain joy in the air. Our Christmas tree is already aglow, I’m preparing for the delicious cooking ahead, and the sound of festive albums fills my home while I enjoy classic holiday movies.
Here we are, on the 9th day of Blogmas—what a delightful achievement! Despite battling a peculiar allergic reaction and feeling drowsy from antihistamines, the holiday spirit remains unshaken. In this spirit, I want to share some of my all-time favorite movies that I turn to each year during this magical season. They evoke fond memories, warm my heart, and fill my days with joy.
Growing up, my grandfather and I would read Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” every Christmas, a cherished tradition that solidified this story’s place in my heart. *Scrooged*, starring the wonderful Bill Murray, offers a modern twist on the classic tale. Murray portrays Frank Cross, who runs a television station planning a live adaptation of the story. With a troubled past that dampens his appreciation for Christmas, Frank’s perspective transforms with the help of the spirits of Christmas past, present, and future.
If you can believe it, I only watched *Love Actually* for the first time about two years ago, and it has since become my all-time favorite holiday film. With a stellar cast featuring Colin Firth, Liam Neeson, Alan Rickman, and Andrew Lincoln (whom I’ll forever associate with Rick Grimes), the movie weaves together the lives of eight unique couples navigating love in the bustling month leading up to Christmas in London. This touching film brings laughter and tears, solidifying its status as a Christmas classic.
*Annie* is a beloved classic, and the 1999 TV version holds a special place in my heart. While I did enjoy the 2014 adaptation, there’s something about this rendition that resonates deeply with me. The story follows eleven-year-old Annie, who has grown up in a harsh orphanage managed by the cruel Miss Hannigan. After multiple failed attempts to escape, she is taken home by Grace Farrell, who brings her to live with billionaire Oliver Warbucks for two weeks during Christmas. Annie wins the hearts of everyone around her, including Mr. Warbucks and even the President! Though Mr. Warbucks wishes to adopt her, Annie is still in search of her real parents, who left her with a locket. Meanwhile, trouble brews as Miss Hannigan’s brother and his conniving girlfriend disguise themselves as Annie’s parents to claim the reward offered by Warbucks.
Another film that I adore watching during the holiday season is *The Holiday*. Despite not being a huge fan of romantic comedies, I find myself completely drawn to this one. It effortlessly moves me to tears and laughter each time I watch it. The storyline follows Iris Simpkins, who writes a wedding column but struggles with an unrequited love for colleague Jasper Bloom. After discovering Jasper’s engagement to another, her life takes a drastic turn. In Los Angeles, Amanda Woods, trying to escape from a broken relationship, impulsively swaps homes with Iris for the holidays. Amidst the backdrop of this charming tale, love blossoms as Amanda meets Iris’ brother Graham, while Iris finds solace with her elderly neighbor Arthur and a talented composer named Miles.
I cherish classic films, and *It’s a Wonderful Life* is both timeless and beautifully crafted. The story follows George Bailey, a kind man who dedicates his life to helping the people of Bedford Falls. Though he dreams of adventure, circumstances prevent him from pursuing that path, especially as he stands against the greedy Mr. Potter, who seeks control over the town. On Christmas Eve, a mishap causes George to contemplate a drastic decision, feeling he would be better off dead. However, the prayers of those he loves summon the gentle angel Clarence to guide him back to hope.
What are your top picks for holiday movie marathons? Speaking of favorites, I must mention the *Harry Potter* series. While not strictly holiday films, I find immense joy in revisiting both the books and movies during this season. They encapsulate a cozy, magical feeling, reminding me of the festive moments at Hogwarts that I adore most.
