Emmie Wu
Allison Meyer

The holiday season is fast approaching and to ease you into the ‘Christmas spirit’, here are our top 5 picks for the most popular and iconic Christmas movies.

 

5. Elf (2003)

Overview: As a toddler, Buddy was accidentally transported to the North Pole, where he was raised by Santa and the elves. Although Buddy has lived there his whole life, he can’t shake off the feeling that he is different from the rest of them. In order to fit in, Buddy travels to New York in search of his real parents…

Our Review:
Taking it’s place at 5th on our list, Elf contains unexpected romance (between a elf-man child and a shop clerk),  humor and an amazing cast of actors. We can  all agree that any movie starring Will Ferrell is inevitably going to be comedic gold. This film was no exception. Though some may perceive it as juvenile, it’s in fact a light-hearted film that provides a great source of entertainment when you’re locked away in your bedroom. It’s definitely one of the most widely known Christmas films and arguably the one in which Will Ferrell undertook his most comical role.

 

4. The Polar Express (2004)

Overview: Santa Claus does not exist. Or does he? Follow the journey of a young boy through an animated film as he boards a magical Christmas train and ventures to the North Pole to find Santa’s home.

Our Review:

The Polar Express is a movie most of us have probably watched at least once or twice… or ten times. Unlike most films that discuss the reality of Mr. Claus, The Polar Express takes on a much more uncanny approach. It doesn’t have the cliche Christmas scenes we see in some of the newly risen films. Not to mention, the animations for this movie are remarkable for its time. I mean, did you see that dance scene? AMAZING.

 

3. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

Overview: Rejected by the Whos as an infant and living in spiteful isolation for most of his life, the Grinch has always hated the citizens of Whoville. The reclusive Grinch hates Christmas just as much as he hates the Whos. Having had enough of their Christmas carols and Santa cookies, he plots to steal all the presents and decoration to ruin Christmas for the cheery citizens. That is until he meets a young girl who tries to befriend the Grinch…

Our Review:

Cute, warm and extremely rebellious. A perfect fit for this cozy holiday.

 

2. Christmas Carol (2009)

Overview: Ebenezer Scrooge, an old, miserable man, leads a stingy life of  hollowness (just like the winter season). After meeting his dead friend, he discovers the secrets to what will determine his afterlife. On Christmas Eve, three spirits visit Scrooge and take him through his own story: past, present, and future…

Our Review:

A Christmas Carol is a nicely-done animation film; the 3D effect is incomparable, giving the audience an unforgettable visual experience. The plot might be a little bit too scary for kids, but it should be a enjoyable ride for KAS high-schoolers.

 

1. Home Alone (1990)

Overview: First on the list we have Home Alone made famous in 1990. Home alone follows the life of 8-year-old Kevin McCallister. On the day of a big family trip, his family forgets to wake him up in the attic. Kevin is left behind as his family flies to Paris, a wish come true for Kevin.

Reviews: We have Home Alone on the top of the list, and we believe lots of people agree with us! The plot is unbelievably funny, the film is warmhearted, and who doesn’t like to watch a little boy prank adults? This film tickles our funny bone and lightens up our Christmas holiday, That’s why it remains a true classic for Christmas!