Many of us have fond memories of December nights curled up on the couch with family and a cup of hot chocolate watching a heart-warming Christmas movie together. Here’s a list you and your family can start now before Christmas day has come and gone.
5. Miracle On 34th Street – Perhaps you remember the story of the “kind old man with whiskers” whose kindness and touch of magic convinces even a couple of stone hearts that he is Santa Claus. This film can be found in the old black and white in addition to an updated color version. This Christmas movie is a level beyond classic and even the black and white version will likely keep the attention of your children while building memories for you all.
4. How The Grinch Stole Christmas – This Dr. Suess animated classic is only about half an hour but will get even the stuffiest of us in the Christmas spirit. Not only is it suspenseful and fascinating to watch, you’ll be reminded of the timeless lesson that Christmas isn’t about presents and food. It’s about family, friendships and, as the Grinch says, “something more.” That something more is Jesus and this will give you an opportunity to ask your children what Christmas means to them.
3. The Greatest Story Ever Told – I wish I could put this one in the top spot but it might seem a tad stuffy to some. But still well worth watching because it’s Christmas and it’s good for us to see. Your little kids (let’s say seven and below) will probably have several questions.
2. A Christmas Carol – This movie has been done several times but we think that the animated Disney version is best for families and most entertaining. Mr. Scrooge is a selfish old miser who will end up being “the richest man in the cemetery,” but three “spirits” visit him to show him his past, present and future. Scrooge wakes on Christmas day with a new lease on life, a new heart for the poor and a desire to build relationships with those around him. Your kids will be mesmerized. This one is a memory builder!
1. It’s A Wonderful Life – It isn’t really Christmas until George Bailey yells, “My mouth’s bleedin’ Bert, my mouth’s bleedin’!” If you haven’t seen this black and white classic, watch it to the end and you’ll know what I’m talking about. George Bailey is a good man who has sacrificed for others all of his life. He has a loving wife and family but not the material possessions he expected to have by his age. On top of that, a banking error at the small bank he owns appears to have landed him a spot in jail. George is considering ending it all until an angel appears and jumps in the freezing water first, knowing that George will save him instead of committing suicide. This angel, “Clarence,” will teach George the ultimate lesson of this spiritual, wholesome classic – that “no man is a failure who has friends.”
Honorable mentions: The Bishops Wife, Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer, and A Charlie Brown Christmas.
Was your favorite Christmas movie not listed? Post your other favorites in the comment section below!