When the holiday hustle and bustle seems to take over your life this time of year, it’s nice to take a break to cuddle up together at home with a good holiday movie. The wholesomeness, and yes, corniness, about them is what makes them so appealing. And though there are some gems out there that we all know and love — “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” and “Love Actually” come to mind — not all are great for the whole fam. The movies that top my list are fit for everyone.
Elf
(Rated PG)
Buddy the Elf (Will Ferrell) is trying to find his birth father, so he travels through the seven levels of the Candy Cane Forest, through the Sea of Swirly Twirly Gum Drops, and then through the Lincoln Tunnel to find him. “Elf” is a comedy that teaches kids about adoption and about believing in the spirit of Christmas. It’s definitely sure to make the whole family double over in laughter.
Spirit score: 5 stockings
Age appropriateness: All ages
The Santa Clause (1, 2, 3)
(Rated PG)
There’s not just one or two of these movies; it’s a trilogy! Scott Calvin (Tim Allen) is a high powered toy executive that isn’t exactly very jolly. But, due to some awful circumstances, he becomes Santa. These movies are sure to give you some belly laughs as Scott learns to take on the role of Santa, finds his Mrs. Claus, and takes on Jack Frost.
Spirit score: 4 stockings
Age appropriateness: All ages
The Polar Express
(Rated G)
Need some reinforcement for believing in Santa? This flick will sure do the trick! This movie is all about a little boy (Billy) who doubts that Santa exists. You’ll truly love the adventure that Billy takes on a magical train to help him believe again. You’ll also love Tom Hanks who does six different character voices throughout the journey.
Spirit score: 5 stockings
Age appropriateness: All ages
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas
(Rated PG)
My real life Cindy Lou Who loves this movie. Have any grinches in your household? This Mean One will sure out grouch any Christmas grump. The Grinch (Jim Carrey) brings his unique, signature humor in this holiday classic that shows what the true meaning of Christmas is — more love and kindness (and less crap and gifts)! Take that, capitalism!
Spirit score: 4 stockings
Age appropriateness: Best suited for kids 4+
Home Alone
(Rated PG)
This oldie but goodie is a classic and set in the North Shore of Chicago. Go down memory lane with your own kids and teach them all about Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) and the shenanigans he pulled to protect his house from being robbed. Sidenote: I wonder what the heck Kevin’s dad did for a living to be able to afford taking all those people to Paris.
Spirit score: 3 stockings
Age appropriateness: Best suited for kids 7+
A Christmas Story
It didn’t feel like Christmas Day unless “A Christmas Story” was on repeat in our house. Set in the 1940’s, this classic is about a young boy that just wants a Red Rider BB gun for Christmas. Seeing Ralphie learn tough lessons, like what happens when you stick your tongue to a frozen pole or what to do when you get a crappy gift from your Great Aunt Martha, will take you back to a simpler time in life.
Spirit score: 3 stockings
Age appropriateness: Best suited for kids 7+
Did I miss one of your favorites? What is a must watch in your family during the holiday season? Be sure to share with me on @freshpickedwords (Twitter) or @stephnthestrollersquad (Instagram).
