One of the best parts of Christmas is watching (and rewatching) our favourite Christmas films time and time again. However, the tenth time viewing Love Actually can perhaps feel a little tiring, right?
If you fancy freshening up your Christmas films repertoire, we’ve got you covered. From underrated classics to new favourites, here’s Team BrandAlley’s pick of the best in Christmas.
Last Christmas (2019)
Set to the music of Wham and George Michael, (who tragically died on Christmas Day 2016) Last Christmas is a festive breath of fresh air. An aspiring performer, played by Emilia Clarke, works as an Elf in Central London, living a fairly everyday life. However everything changes when she meets and falls in love with a mysterious young man (played by Henry Golding), and things suddenly start to go her way. Could it be too good to be true?
Miracle on 34th Street (1994)
A remake of the original 1947 film, Miracle on 34th street stars the late Richard Attenborough playing Santa Claus who ends up defending himself in a court case to prove that he is the real Kris Kringle. His biggest challenge? Convincing six year old Susan Walker (Mara Wilson) to believe in him. A light-hearted film we dare you not to cry at.
The Family Stone (2005)
Everett Stone (Dermot Mulroney) is excited about bringing his girlfriend, played by Sarah Jessica Parker, home for Christmas to meet his family for the first time. However, once she arrives – they aren’t so pleased to meet her. Wildly conservative, Meredith Morton (SJP) is the complete opposite to Everett’s laid back, slightly boho family. However, Meredith’s sister, who she brings along for support, is much better received. Prepare for dark humour, cringeworthy moments and plenty of twists and turns.
Christmas on the Square (2020)
With an all-star cast including Dolly Parton playing an actual Christmas angel, Christmas on the Square is the story of a woman (Christine Baranski) who returns to her home town after her fathers death with plans to sell literally everything, and turn it into a corporate mall. However, once she’s back, meets the people and reconnects with an old flame – she begins to have a change of heart.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Played by Jim Carrey in a fantastic costume, and starring a very young Jenny Humphrey from Gossip Girl, The Grinch is the story of a creature who lives amongst the most festive individuals in Whoville. The catch? He absolutely loathes Christmas. When the residents of Whoville decide to make Christmas bigger and better than ever, the Grinch makes it his mission to ruin the festivities for them all.
Jingle All The Way (1996)
Ever left Christmas shopping to the last minute? You’ll be able to relate to this film if so. A job-obsessed Dad (Arnold Schwarzenegger) is tired of letting his son down time and time again, so promises him the most-desired toy of the year – a Turboman doll. Unfortunately, he’s left it far too late, and ends up on a wild goose chase to secure the gift. Will it be worth it in the end?
Home Alone (1990)
It’s A Wonderful Life (1946)
A classic that never seems to get old, It’s A Wonderful Life tells the story of a hard done by businessman who has so many issues he’s thinking of ending his life. However, when he’s about to jump off a bridge, he comes across his Guardian Angel, Clarence, who instead takes him back and shows him what an impact he’s actually made on his local town.
The Polar Express (2004)
A little boy takes a train journey that’s wilder than he ever could have imagined. He’s invited on by a wacky train conductor (voice by Tom Hanks), and comes across many other children who have their own story to share. Whilst on the train, he learns more about himself than he ever could have imagine, as the journey continues to meet Santa Claus.
Nativity (2009)
Since adapted to a West End show, Nativity is one of those Christmas films that you begrudgingly watch, yet can’t help but enjoy. Starring now-megastar Martin Freeman, the story follows a failed-actor primary school teacher who is given the unforgiving task of directing the schools yearly Nativity play. However, things go awry when his little white lie about a Hollywood producer coming to watch the play takes the production to supersonic heights.
Words: Maria Loizou
