Elizabeth Martinez
Each year, the Christmas period is an opportunity to see many traditions and habits resurface. Among them are obviously the Christmas movies, eagerly awaited by millions of people around the world.
Indeed, we often talk about gifts, the tree, the crib, decorations in the cities but we often forget to mention one of the greatest joys of the end of the year that are the Christmas movies. Thanks to them, we fall back into childhood and rediscover the magical magic of Christmas and its most beautiful stories, something to put in the mood.
In this year 2020, which is particularly complicated due to the health crisis which is shaking up the whole world, the arrival of films dedicated to this universal and very positive theme can bring a real dose of optimism and good humor to our daily lives.
Here are the 15 best Christmas movies:
1. Love Actually (2003)
Credit: Universal Pictures
It is certainly THE romantic Christmas comedy. Some scenes have even become cult such as Hugh Grant’s sway, the cover of All I want for Christmas is you or the declaration of love in signs. A sure bet to watch without moderation!
2. Mom I missed the plane (1990)
Credit: 20th Century Fox
The film chronicles the adventures of Kevin, a 9-year-old boy who his family inadvertently leaves behind at home as they fly to Paris. Kevin will therefore spend a few days alone at home and will have to defend himself against two not very smart burglars who have decided to rob the big house.
3. Santa Claus is garbage (1982)
Credit: Trinacra Films
First created as a play, this comedy will be adapted to the big screen 3 years after its release. It remains today one of the classics of French cinema. The story takes place on Christmas Eve at the permanence of the SOS Détresse Amitié association, volunteers are disturbed by the arrival of marginal and eccentric characters, which cause chain catastrophes.
4. The Christmas Chronicles (2018)
Credit: 1492 Pictures
A true modern tale, the film tells of a New Year’s Eve unlike any other with grandiose special effects and an original staging. Teddy and Kate Pierce are planning to film Santa Claus and this idea will lead to an amazing Christmas adventure that most children could only dream of in their dreams.
5. The Holiday Calendar (2018)
Credit: Netflix
A talented photographer stuck in uninteresting work inherits an old advent calendar. Against all expectations, the latter seems to have magical powers and could well predict the future. He will change her life by helping her find the way to happiness and meet love.
6. The Grinch (2000)
Credit: Universal Pictures
The Grinch is a green furry bogeyman who hates Christmas and tries to spoil the party with the people of the imaginary town of Chouville by stealing all the presents. Between humor and emotion, this fantastic Christmas story is ideal for watching with the family. Special mention for Jim Carrey, totally dressed up to play the Grinch.
7. The Toy Race (1996)
Credit: 20th Century Fox
On Christmas Eve, busy businessman Howard Langston (played by Arnold Schwarzenegger) realizes that he forgot to buy a toy for his son Jamie that he absolutely wants: the Turbo Man. Then start a race against time to find him. But problem, he is not really alone in wanting to get it …
8. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Credit: Touchstone Pictures
Directed by the great Tim Burton, this animated film with an extraordinary universe adapted from a drawn poem tells how Jack Skellington, the master of Halloween, is tired of preparing the same party every year and decides to change to take care of Christmas. A true classic to see and re-watch without limit!
9. The Pole Express (2004)
Credit: Castle Rock Entertainment
This feature film traces the story of a young boy who begins to doubt the existence of Santa Claus. But as he embarks on the Pôle Express train to the North Pole, he will quickly realize that enchantment and adventure are waiting for you. The film was nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Song at the 77th Academy Awards in 2005.
10. Santa & Cie (2017)
Credit: Chez Wam
While the 92,000 elves responsible for making the gifts all fall ill at the same time, Santa Claus (played by Alain Chabat) must urgently come to Earth with his reindeer to seek a cure! His meeting with two children will help him save the magic of Christmas.
11. The Holiday (2006)
Credit: Columbia Pictures
Notice to lovers of romantic comedies, this is a classic! During the Christmas holidays, an American and an Englishwoman (played by Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet) decide to exchange their houses in order to get away from their respective problems. Between humor and love, they will live a unique Christmas.
12. Jingle Jangle: An Enchanted Christmas (2020)
Credit: Netflix
An inventor gives up designing children’s toys after years without success and loses confidence in his talent. One fine day, he stumbles upon a magical object and decides to build a sublime present to give to his little girl at Christmas. This Christmas musical starring Forest Whitaker is perfect for family watching.
13. A Christmas from the Sky (2020)
Credit: Netflix
Tropical decor for that Christmas romance. On the eve of D-Day, a parliamentary assistant is sent to an island to prepare for the closure of an air base. But she will succumb to the charm of a young and handsome captain with a big heart. A film that will appeal to romantics!
14. Merry Christmas (2005)
Credit: UGC Fox Distribution
This film tells the true story of the incredible Christmas of 1914 when the enemies of the trenches gathered on Christmas Eve to party together. We see German, English and French soldiers exchanging gifts, eating together, discussing, taking pictures and even playing football. A gripping feature film that testifies to the strength of Christmas.
15. Last Christmas (2019)
Credit: Universal Pictures
In London, Kate (played by Emilia Clarke) makes bad decisions and dresses up every day as an elf, the only job she has managed to land in a Christmas shop. But as the city dresses up in the holiday season, she meets Tom, a man who seems to see more of her than she lets on.