1. “Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas”
It doesn’t truly feel like the holiday season until you watch this Jim Carrey classic that was gifted to us in 2000. As the story goes, the titular green meanie hates Christmas and all the cheerfulness that comes with it, so he concocts a plan to crush the Whos’ holiday spirit by stealing all of their presents, décor and food while they are sleeping. As is the case every year, prepare to be touched as you witness the Grinch’s insides finally matching his outsides—in terms of having a fuzzy feeling, we mean!
2. “It’s a Wonderful Life”
Wax nostalgic with a holiday staple from 1946 that aims to lift your spirits and remind you to never lose your zeal for life. Directed by Frank Capra, this film tells the tale of the disillusioned George Bailey (played by venerated “Old Hollywood” icon Jimmy Stewart) who is taken under the wing—er, coat lapel?—of a dapper guardian angel named Clarence.
After George says he wishes he had never been born, his celestial visitor shows him flashbacks of his life. In the end, George must concede: he indeed has a wonderful life.
3. “A Charlie Brown Christmas”
“Christmas time is here, families drawing near” … to watch this animated holiday special together, all cozied up on the couch. You don’t have to wait around for the annual TV airing of this 1965 feature—just pop in the 4K Blu-ray edition, and feel the nostalgia rushing back as you watch Snoopy get up to his usual antics. Meanwhile, the Peanuts gang attempts to put on a nativity play as everyone’s favorite pessimist, Charlie Brown, the appointed (and disappointed) play director, looks on.
4. “Daddy’s Home 2”
We’d wait until the little ones are nestled all snug in their beds before putting this one on. If you’re looking for a dose of raunchiness in your holiday movie marathon, this 2017 release has your back. In this flick, Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg prove to be an effective comedic odd couple once more, delivering laughs as their characters endure holiday visits from their own just-as-polar-opposite fathers who are played by Hollywood heavy-hitters John Lithgow and Mel Gibson, respectively.
5. “Frozen”
Everyone and their mother has heard the 2013 smash hit “Let It Go.” Coincidentally, that is our advice when it comes to putting up with the youngins who are begging to watch it for the 112th time. But regardless, despite the snowy imagery, Disney’s Frozen is a warmhearted tale that centers on the strained relationship between two sisters who must come together to save their kingdom from usurpation.
So, we say, join the kids on the couch for a viewing, and when the time comes, let your hair down like Queen Elsa when she gives herself a fierce makeover and builds a fortress using her awesome ice powers. Come on, we know you know the words.
6. “Die Hard”
Okay, hear us out: while 1988’s Die Hard is arguably devoid of the affable quality that grants holiday movies their own separate category, this film’s terrorist-heist plot does take place during a company Christmas party. And that’s enough of a justification for us to put it on in the midst of ABC Family lineups and Hallmark clichés. Yipee-ki-yay!
If you’re looking for more holiday movie recommendations or are hoping to upgrade your electronics setup in your living room, stop by our store today! We’re always happy to help.