Christmas Movies 2016

Most of us have those things that immediately come to mind when we think about the holidays.  It could be a delicious meal, spending time with the family or listening to some Christmas songs on the radio.  These things, and more, definitely help to put most of us in the Christmas mood.  However, one activity that is probably one of my favorite to do during the holiday season is to watch movies.  I'd guess that I'm not the only one who enjoys watching movies during the Christmas break.

Some of the movies are for kids, while others are geared more towards family or adults only.

1.  The Polar Express (2004)

If you have kids around during the holiday season, this is a film that you must show them.  Upon watching it for the first time, I expected this one to be one of the great classics.  It's also a nice bonus that the animation is amazing in this particular movie.

2.  Batman Returns (1992)

Christmas in Gotham City, what more could you ask for?  In my opinion, this is one of the best in the Batman series.  Keaton, DaVito, Pfeiffer and Walken all do an exceptional job in their individual roles.

3.  Gremlins (1984)

I was too young to watch this one initially, but I do remember seeing it while I was still in elementary school.  Even as a kid, I recognized the humor in the film.  The gremlins might be a bit much for young children.  Watching this movie as an adult feels just as good as when I watched it as a kid during the 80's.

4. & 5. Die Hard 1 (1988) & 2 (1990)

Action movies are one of absolute favorite genres to watch. These two movies are full of it and I'm glad they were both set during the Christmas season.  Every film can't be about Santa or Reindeer, happy families and presents.  This is a great alternative for the adults to check out once the kids have gone to bed.

Die Hard

Die Hard 2

6.  Elf (2003)

I find this one to be quite humorous, but I could understand if one doesn't find it to be funny.  Some of the comedic moments may be too much, but it'll put you in the Christmas spirit.  How could you not cheer for Buddy (Ferrell's character) to end up happily ever after with his family?

7.  A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

If you don't know about this one, then you must have been living under a rock your entire life.  This CBS Special, originally introduced over fifty years is an American classic.  It is a staple of the Christmas movie line-up.

8.  This Christmas (2007)

I couldn't have a Christmas movie list without at least one about family.  While it's fairly new, I believe it deserves to be placed on the list of classic Christmas films.  This particular film has a great cast and the soundtrack isn't too bad either.

9.  Lethal Weapon (1987)

What's a Christmas movie list without at least one cop movie?  

10.  Deck The Halls (2006)

Christmas decorations on steroids.  This one definitely has it's funny moments.  I could only imagine living in a neighborhood where Christmas was celebrated to this degree.

Bonus:  To Kill A Mockingbird (1962)

About ten years ago, I got the idea that I would read this classic work by Harper Lee during my Christmas break.  Upon finishing the book, I immediately watched the movie.  I'm not sure why I selected this particular book, because it's not exactly set during the Christmas season.  Nonetheless, I've enjoyed watching this film every year since I started the tradition.