National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation

A friend of mine gave me this movie for Christmas during a Secret Santa gift exchange. I had never seen it before, but I am so glad to have recently made this film a part of my Christmas traditions. It is hilarious, definitely one of the better Chevy Chase pictures. The Griswald Family Christmas should be a part of every family's holiday experience.

Gremlins

Many may forget that Gremlins is, in fact, a Christmas movie (at least in setting), so luckily I am eager to remind everyone! This unique comedy features a dark twist on the holiday season. A little boy's father brings home an unusual Christmas gift for his son, a Mogwai named Gizmo. While Gizmo is adorable and sweet, there are three very important rules for protecting him: 1) Avoid the light, 2) Do not get him wet, and most importantly, 3) Do not, under any circumstances, feed him after midnight! This is a great one to watch at any time of year, but also a perfect break from the typically cheerful holiday pictures.

The Muppet Christmas Carol

I am currently reading Charles Dickens' classic story that inspired The Muppet Christmas Carol. Gonzo plays Dickens, and the rest of our favorite characters fall into place predictably. My sister and I once had a tradition of watching this movie around Halloween rather than waiting all the way until Christmas. It was the marker for the end of fall and the beginning of winter and all that came with it. How can a person not love the muppets? This film is a heartwarming, hilarious tribute to one of my favorite Christmas tales. This one also appeals to children and adults alike!

The Santa Clause

I do not think it is possible to have another favorite Tim Allen film. This is by far his best. I remember seeing The Santa Clause in theaters when I was a little girl. After Santa falls off Allen's roof, he and his son travel to the North Pole, only to discover his character must permanently replace Father Christmas. It is a hilarious and exciting Christmas story about family, holiday spirit, and faith. It will be an instant family favorite; I guarantee it!

The Nightmare Before Christmas

I am not sure if this can accurately be labeled a Christmas movie, but it falls somewhere between Halloween and Noel, so it qualifies. I have only seen this a couple of times, but I like it. Danny Elfman and Tim Burton make a really great team. I like the characters, the animation, and of course, the songs. Jack Skellington is the successful and delightfully frightful Pumpkin King. But after his latest Halloween, he feels a kind of emptiness that only Christmas can cure. Or so he believes. This film is definitely worth trying at least once.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas

December is upon us and with it comes the holiday season. I am dedicating this month to a celebration of holiday pictures. I have already written commentaries on Holiday Inn, White Christmas and It's a Wonderful Life in past months, so I am not going to repeat myself. I do, however, want to reiterate that each of those films are amazing.
The first entry is for Dr. Suess's classic story, How the Grinch Stole Christmas. I thoroughly enjoy both the cartoon version from 1966 and the 2000 version starring Jim Carrey. I cannot remember a Christmas that did not include this sweet and moving story. We are all guilty of getting caught up in the commercial side of Christmas, and Dr. Suess works to remind us that Christmas is about love, family and joy above all else. Not just for kids, this story is for everyone!