Christmas classics you need to binge watch this holiday season

We’re just a few weeks away from a 'holly jolly Christmas’. And while you bond with the family over decking the halls and decorating your home and tree, squeeze in some movie-time with a host of titles themed around the special day. 

Without much ado, hop on to the couch with some hot chocolate and marshmallows, and revel in the Christmas cheer and frolic because we’ve got you covered. 

The Santa Clause (1994)

As far as movie plots centered on Christmas are concerned, nothing gets more interesting than the protagonist killing Santa by accident and then trying to fill in his shoes. This Christmas crisis also sees Tim Allen having to deal with a suspicious ex-wife while trying to keep his secret safe. It’s a fun, feel-good film that’s goofy right from the first scene. Plus, you’ll finally get the answer to how Santa is able to get down chimneys that are too small for him. 

Miracle on 34th Street (1994)

The perfect dose of humour and sadness along with some heartbreaking moments sounds like just another Christmas. Miracle on 34th Street is a story is about a department store employee, who claims to be Santa Claus and manages to convince not only innocent kids, but adults as well, that he’s the real deal, despite being taken to court to prove his identity. These sweet, innocent and feel-good moments make this classic Christmas movie a must-watch. 

Home Alone (1990)

This is a movie that has a special place in my heart. I’ve lost count of the number of times I watched it as a kid while growing up—one kid, two robbers and an absolute laughter riot over the Christmas weekend. Did I need more? Absolutely not. The movie introduced me to the world of Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern who were anything but the perfect thieves—the they are dimwitted and adorable at once. It may be 32 years since the movie, but there is never be a point where I feel bored of watching an eight-year-old Kevin McCallister who the family forgets at home while they take off for a vacation. In fact, the film is so good that you don’t need Christmas, or any occasion, to watch it. 

How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

If there is a Christmas movie that every millennial remembers watching growing up, this is the one. And it’s not just for its Christmas theme, but also for an unrecognisable Jim Carey who was absolutely terrific as the Grinch. It’s a lovely movie that perfectly brings out the true meaning of Christmas and teaches us how everyone deserves a second chance, no matter how bad they are. As you grow older, you tend to relate more with the Grinch and realise why he does what he does. This holiday film is an absolute treat for the eyes and will make your heart grow three sizes. 

Elf (2003)

They’re few things better to watch on Christmas than a movie that’s based around a human raised by Santa’s elves in the North Pole. This cute and adorable elf is on a quest—to find his biological father—and sets off on a journey that sees him reach the city of New York. Released 20 years ago, it’s a film that can be enjoyed by the entire family, and don’t be surprised should anyone would want to watch it all over again. 

A Christmas Story (1983)

Are you looking for a Christmas movie that’s warm, humourous and nostalgic? You won’t find a better one than this. So, just get ready to hop on board and watch Ralphie Parker (Peter Billingsley) who wants one thing and one thing only for Christmas—an official Red Ryder carbine-action 200 shot range-model air rifle. What follows is a series of failed attempts to search itas he hopes against hope to find it under the Christmas tree. Making matters worse is the constant rebuttal by elders. It’s a movie that’ll remind you what it was like to be a kid during Christmas and is one that you certainly shouldn’t miss out on. 

It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

This timeless classic is the quintessential Christmas film. Want to know why? To begin with, the direction and screenplay is stellar and that makes the movie funnier and more heart-warming. It celebrates the warmth and togetherness that Christmas is all about. And keep your tissues ready for this one as the last scene of the film will leave a lump in your throat. Ranked 11th on the American Film Institute’s original list of the 100 Greatest American Films of All Time, the film revolves around the life of George Bailey (James Stewart) who wishes he’d never been born, only for an angel (Henry Travers) to show him how many lives he’s impacted and how things would be different if he were never there.