by Shannon Lintott
While it is true that Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without the classic A Christmas Carol or The Grinch type movies, there are many fantastic Christmas themed movies that everyone can enjoy.
As December 25 approaches and Christmas songs begin playing in the mall I have been thinking about what my favourite non-Christmas Christmas themed films are. Sometimes you want to celebrate the holidays without actually having to watch the same five films over and over again. Whether you need a break from the classics or you are looking for a new holiday favourite, here are my top 15 “not so Christmas” Christmas movies (in no particularly order):
Love Actually (2003, Romantic Comedy)
This isn’t only one of my favourite of favourites Christmas themed films; it’s also one of my favourite all around movies of all time. With a stellar cast and brilliant characters left, right and maybe all too close and centre, you really can’t let this movie slip by you. The writing is fantastic and everyone can relate to at least one story or one character in this movie, even the kids and even the man folk. I don’t really suggest this as a family film though as there is some slight nakedness and a few sexual slams (aka jokes) but I think it’s very PG-13 worthy. A great laugh and a great heart warmer for all!
The Holiday (2006, Romantic Comedy)
That’s right, another romantic comedy! Who doesn’t feel a little more succumbed to rom coms this time of year? For me nothing makes me want to cuddle on the couch with a cup of tea more than 30 below freezing. Even if you are spared the harshness of winter, there is something about the holidays that makes your heart warm. One of those things may be this movie, The Holiday. If Kate Winslet and Jack Black don’t make you want to watch this already, how about being shocked by how much you will like Judd Law and Cameron Diaz.
I’m not usually a Judd fan but I love him in this role. He makes me grin like an idiot. A big, girly idiot. Jack is fantastic in this movie and really shows you a side of him that I am still stunned by every time I watch this movie. A little more couple-ie than Love Actually but I think the man will be pleased with Jack Black being involved. Once again, not so family friendly but I’ll leave that to you.
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe (2005, Family/Fantasy)
Such an amazing story with generally good acting and the animals that steal the show (I love when they do that). Narnia is such an amazing family movie. Everyone loves something about these stories. There’s snow, there’s polar bears, there’s good and evil and what not, but there’s also something very Christmas like about it all. Plus, Mr. Tumnus. Come on. That’s worth it right there. And there’s a lion. Brilliant. Not super scary but I’m not sure how younger kids would handle this movie. There are quite a bit of tears, some blood and fighting. Once again, I leave that to you.
Babes in Toyland (1986, Family/Musical)
This movie is hilarious! It’s one of my all time favourites. Keanu Reeves and Drew Barrymore when they were really young is amazing enough but over all it’s just a very entertaining movie. It’s got “written for television” all over it. Yet, it’s a quirky adventure flick and a good one to put on while decorating or baking. If all else fails at least it will take you back to those crazy 80’s. Family friendly for sure!
Planes Trains and Automobiles (1987, Comedy)
A man is trying to get home for Thanksgiving and ends up with the worst travel partner ever. Nothing says the holidays or comedy quite like John Candy. Already you know it’s good. This is another classic John Candy film. So if that isn’t enough incentive: Steve Martin. End. It’s great! Not so family friendly but it will guarantee to make you giggle.
NEXT PAGE
