Scrooge (1970)
Not the only Dickens adaptations on this list, this musical adaptation has the distinction of toting a Golden Globe. Albert Finney won the statue for his turn as the titular Ebenezor Scrooge in this film that your kids will probably love.
Love Actually (2003)
Every British actor, almost ever, is in this movie: Colin Firth, Liam Neeson, Emma Thompson, Keira Knightley, Bill Nighy, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Martin Freeman, The Walking Dead‘s Andrew Lincoln, and even The Maze Runner‘s Thomas Brodie-Sangster. The film follows eight different couples as they all work out their love lives during the Christmas season. It’s so good that you’ll love it without questioning its morality (we’re looking at you, Keira Knightley and Andrew Lincoln). It’s simply not the holiday season until you’ve watched this movie at least once. We recommend weekly viewings.
The Holly and the Ivy (1952)
This underrated classic, named for the traditional British Christmas carol and adapted from the Wynyard Browne play, has more to offer than meets the eye. A clergyman who neglected his children has his issues come to the surface during Christmas. The film poses questions about life and the meaning of the holiday in a way that’s notedly part Chekhov and part comedy of manners.
Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001)
We’re not really into the idea of ‘spirit animals,’ but if we had one, it would take the form of Bridget Jones. Though this movie isn’t technically a holiday movie, the film’s premise is fixed on Bridget’s New Years’ resolution, so it’ll help you gear up for that. Plus, Colin Firth wears an ugly Christmas sweater AND plays Mark Darcy, in a nod to his Mr. Darcy days of Pride and Prejudice (the film is a modern adaptation of the Austen novel). It’s hilarious and will be your best friend anytime you feel lonely this holiday season. Trust us.
Arthur Christmas (2011)
Santa’s clumsy son tries to save one girl’s Christmas after realizing his father failed to deliver her gift. Arthur Claus sets off on his mission with his grandfather, a rebellious elf, and a team of reindeer in this funny and enjoyable movie. It’s a Golden Globe nominated fresh take on the holiday premise, thanks to its high-tech Santa Claus.
Millions (2004)
An enormous bag of money falls into the hands of a little boy just days before England converts to the Euro (what?). The Euro part might sound a bit strange, but the Danny Boyle-directed film works on multiple levels. It’s enjoyable for kids and adults alike. It’ll leave you feeling great about mankind, and that’s in the spirit of Christmas after all, isn’t it?
The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
If your kids didn’t love the Albert Finney Dickens adaptation, there’s always this version, with Michael Caine playing Scrooge along with The Muppets. Kermit the Frog plays Scrooge’s business partner, Bob Cratchit. It may not be the best version of the story, but it’ll make you laugh and it’ll warm your heart. It’s also a great way to introduce kids to the classic Dickens tale!
The Holiday (2006)
The Holiday is the sort of movie that’s so good, it’s perfectly acceptable to watch all year long. At least, we do. Kate Winslet‘s performance as a woman with a mean case of unrequited love gives us all the feels. She switches houses with unlucky-in-love Cameron Diaz, and along come Jack Black and Jude Law to sweep the ladies (and the viewers) off their feet. Pour a glass (or a bottle) of wine, and enjoy this movie, whether it’s the holiday season or not.
