It’s that time of year again. Crack open the Quality Streets, bring on the Baileys hot chocolate and put on your ugliest Christmas sweater. Now you’re ready to watch a Christmas film but which one? Look no further as the following list is sure to reveal the perfect film for you…
When you’re in the mood for a good festive laugh, HoHoHo….
Office Christmas Party, The Night Before and A Bad Mom’s Christmas are all bound to make you laugh uncontrollably especially after a few mulled wines.
When you want a more family friendly festive comedy….
Elf is undoubtedly one of the best Christmas films there is, but some other enjoyable family friendly options include: Nativity 1-3, Jingle all the Way, Deck the Halls, Home Alone, Fred Claus and Christmas with the Kranks.
When you love a good Christmas romance….
Mrs Miracle is the only Hallmark Christmas movie I rewatch, it is so comforting. Another cosy Christmas watch is Let it snow, set in a small town with the storylines of many characters slowly intertwining. Last Christmas, Four Christmases, Holidate and Your Christmas or mine? are more charming Christmas romances, that are worth a watch (or rewatch).
When you want a bit of action with a festive twist….
Violent Night, an action comedy, shows Santa’s naughty side with an entertaining story. Another action comedy is Red One, released this year, which brings a new meaning to the word ‘elf’.
When the only Christmas film you’ll watch is a horror….
Black Christmas has three different versions, with my personal favourite being from 2019 (however it does have an average score on Letterboxd of 1.8 stars so be warned).
When you want an older Christmas film (or one that feels old) ….
A favourite in my household is National Lampoons Christmas Vacation, it’s perfect if you want that typical 80s American Christmas. Or if you prefer a 70s aesthetic, try The Holdovers, a recent release, bound to make you laugh and sob, leaving you contemplating it for days afterward. Another old Christmas film I am keen to watch this year is It’s a Wonderful Life which I am ashamed to say I haven’t seen (but I’ve heard great things).
When you’re feeling nostalgic….
Arthur Christmas, A Christmas Carol (muppets version if you’re feeling extra nostalgic) and The Santa Clause 1-3 are my go-to suggestions for an entertaining throwback.
When you want something a bit different….
Joyeux Noël brings together Scottish, German and French soldiers on Christmas Eve despite the first world war pitting them against one another. It is a heartwarming tale, providing a fictionalised version of a true event.
When your favourite actor is Timothée Chalamet….
Love the Coopers involves the interconnected stories of one family and the people around them, leading to a chaotic Christmas Eve.
When you want a film at Christmas that’s not actually a Christmas film….
Little Women (2019) and Gremlins are films I associate with Christmas time, yet I will refuse to call them Christmas films (and argue with anyone who does).
My personal favourites….
Love Actually is my favourite Christmas film because it is the perfect blend of humour, romance and British icons. This is closely followed by How the Grinch Stole Christmas, a childhood favourite, full of mischief and sarcasm with a heartwarming ending. A new favourite of mine is The Holiday, a charming cottage romance, with a cosy feel and the best soundtrack. I also love Miracle on 34th Street and Home Alone 2 for the classic 90s Christmas aesthetic. They’re both set in New York at Christmas, what more could you want?
3rd year English and Journalism student
Also the music Editor for Strathclyde Telegraph!
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