As we prepare to hibernate this winter break, you might be wondering about what great holiday movies you can enjoy from the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re in the mood for something comical or for something romantic, online streaming platforms like Netflix have got you covered. So cozy up in your favorite pajamas, grab a fuzzy blanket, and settle in for some of the best festive films!
Elf:
Some of the best Christmas movies are the ones you watch year after year -- what could be better than a traditional Christmas? To this end, one of my all-time favorite movies for the holidays is Elf, starring Will Ferrell as Buddy. Throughout the movie, viewers follow Buddy, one of Santa’s human sized elves, on his journey through New York City in search of his real father. After learning of a biological relationship between him and his real father, Buddy tries to form a father-son relationship with him, as if everything were normal. Chaos ensues as Buddy travels through New York City and attempts to create and rekindle relationships in his new life. This movie is one to make you both laugh and cringe, thanks to Buddy’s childlike persona and the circumstances that he often gets himself into!
Home Alone:
Another popular Christmas classic is Home Alone. This 1990s film features Macaulay Culkin as Kevin McCallister, an 8 year-old who accidentally gets left home alone during Christmas vacation. Little did Kevin know that instead of spending Christmas with his family in Paris, he would spend it defending his house from burglars! This holiday classic is bound to get you in the Christmas spirit. And, if you’re looking for more, there’s always Home Alone 2, 3, 4 and Home Alone: The Holiday Heist!
The Princess Switch:
Maybe, though, traditional Christmas movies just aren’t your speed. If so, no fear! Try some more recently released movies, like The Princess Switch. This family-friendly movie, released in 2018, stars Vanessa Hudgens playing both of the lead roles, Stacy De Novo and Lady Margaret. At a Christmas baking competition in Belgravia, a Chicago chef, Stacy De Novo, accidentally bumps into the prince’s fianceé, Lady Margaret. After meeting one another, the two decide to switch lives for a couple of days. After all, the duchess had always wished to have a taste of normal life, and Stacy was able to grant her that. This movie is perfect to have on in the background as you put your finishing touches on Christmas preparations, whether it’s wrapping presents or decorating the tree. You can find it on Netflix by searching The Princess Switch.
Last Christmas:
Finally, if you’re in need of a heart-warmer this holiday season, watch Last Christmas, in theaters now! This brand new film is about frustrated Kate, who works in a year-round Christmas shop as an elf. Things seem to be standstill in her life, even going downhill… that is, until she meets Tom, a sweet, charming and too-good-to be-true guy. As the holiday season approaches, their growing friendship becomes a picture perfect romance. Last Christmas can be the perfect late-night holiday outing, and it is currently playing in many theaters around Westchester County and at the Palisades Mall!
Hopefully, as the holiday season approaches, you are able to find many great movies to watch with friends and family. In addition to these recommendations, there are plenty more for you to discover as well. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!