How long has it been since you've seen a great holiday movie? I am not talking about a holiday movie in the likes of “The Lord of the Rings.” I am talking about a movie like “How The Grinch Stole Christmas.” For the past several years we have been plagued with terrible, no good Holiday movies only out to get a buck or two. It appears this year will be no different. But, despite all of that, there are several classic films that deserve great praise for what they are.



The all time greatest modern day Christmas movie is “A Christmas Story.” With the perfect cast to create a genius script made this one an instant classic. Set in the 1950s, one can really see what life must have been like for a 10 year old boy wanting only one thing…a BB gun. I watch this movie almost every year, and I enjoy it every time. Don't get me wrong, there are a few scenes that bore me and that probably should not have been in the movie, but trust me when I say it is worth it to buy for your collection and watch with the family.

Many may disagree with me on this one, but I really enjoy “Home Alone.” Yes, MC is pretty annoying but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the film. What kid doesn't dream about being home alone and being able to do whatever he wants? The drama that leads up to the ending is built really well. The music and acting is actually quite good. But, the best part about this movie (besides the BB gun scene) is the entire ending sequence. An 8 year old boy prepares his home for a burglary with virtually every step planned. If you haven't seen it in ten years, take another stab at it.

A classic yet very important movie is “It's a Wonderful Life” staring the incredibly perfect James Stewart. I admit that I have not seen this movie enough times, but I believe strongly that I will see it more in the future. It takes a true look at life, family, and everything they encompass. A film that one can learn from and enjoy, this one will always be considered the best holiday movie of all time.

My personal yearly favorite is “National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation.” This is Chevy Chase's greatest role. If you watch how he goes about finding a Christmas tree, waxing up his sled, and allowing his relatives and boss to take over his life, you can see a great actor deep inside….at least for this movie. With adult humor, modern acting, a great Christmas story, one can not be let down with this one. It is the funniest Christmas movie of all time.

There are other recommended holiday movies such as the classic “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” “Gremlins,” “Bad Santa,” “Santa Clause,” and a few others. But, if you stick to the top movies, you will never experience a bad holiday season.