The holidays bring holiday traditions and closeness to households, and with that comes an abundance of holiday-themed movies, some more favorable than others. Nothing is worse than gathering with family and friends to watch a movie only to be met with a dull film that acts more as background noise than an engaging form of entertainment. So, this holiday season, indulge in movies that will captivate family and friends.
“Christmas with the Kranks” (2006) follows Luther Krank (played by Tim Allen) and Nora Krank (played by Jamie Lee Curtis) as their daughter, Blaire (played by Julie Gonzalo), is absent during the holiday season. The Kranks decide to skip the holiday festivities altogether to avoid any yearning for their daughter, instead planning a tropical-themed vacation. After seeing the Kranks’ neglect to engage in any Christmas tradition, their Christmas-obsessed neighbors Vic Frohmeyer (played by Dan Aykroyd) and Walt Scheel (played by M. Emmet Walsh) quickly make their disapproval known. While the Kranks had intended to follow through with their plan, a phone call from their homesick daughter sends the couple into a frenzy as they attempt to quickly make the “traditional Krank Christmas Eve party” a reality. The film not only captures an intriguing plot, but also illustrates the reality of Christmas, the most chaotic event of the year.
“A Christmas Story” (1983) is not only a Certified Fresh movie, but arguably
one of the best Christmas-themed movies of all time. The movie follows Ralphie (played by Peter Billingsley), a young boy who has one present in mind: a Red Ryder Carbine-action 200-shot Range Model Air Rifle. Through a humorous journey, viewers witness Ralphie’s testament to his ideal Christmas present and his defiance towards the cliché “you will shoot your eye out,” as his parents repeat the phrase throughout the movie. While the film’s humor is arguably targeted to a more mature audience, it nonetheless sparks instances of laughter, nostalgia, and relatability.
As the title suggests, “Home Alone” (1990) depicts the experience of Kevin McCallister (played by Macaulay Culkin) and his holiday escapade Left home alone while his family carries out their vacation plans, McCallister is left to defend his house against robbers. The majority of the film revolves around a planned robbery of the McCallister household, and the countless unrealistic scenarios McCallister himself gets into make for a thrilling watch. “Home Alone” not only entertains any audience, but provides insight into a deeper experience, tying both the value of family and Christmas spirit together.
“Deck the Halls” (2006) involves the rivalry between two neighbors, each with
different approaches on how to celebrate the Christmas season. A more traditional Christmas enthusiast, Steve Flinch (played by Matheww Broderick), finds himself at odds with his new neighbor, Teddy Hall (played by Danny DeVito), who wants his house to be visible from space. With the use of several Christmas lights, the film highlights the theme of family importance over one’s self pride, while incorporating humorous moments.
“The Santa Clause” (1994) is a Christmas classic. The film features Scott Calvin (played by Tim Allen) who accidentally causes Santa Claus to fall to his death on Christmas Eve. Shortly after, Calvin assumes the position of Santa Claus, delivering presents on Christmas Eve without knowing that by putting on the Santa suit, he’s accepting the Santa Claus role full-time. Now, Calvin finds himself struggling to leave his old life behind while embracing his Santa duties. With a unique take on the Santa Claus legend, the film offers heartwarming moments while diving into more serious topics, such as Calvin’s own divorce. Nonetheless, the film retains a more playful tone and is a captivating watch.
