It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, and we’ve rounded up a list of some of the most beloved cinema classics that will get you in the mood for the jolliest season of the year.
Whether you love or hate winter, having a cozy movie night accompanied by a delicious hot chocolate and twinkling lights while snow pours outside can be the perfect way to unwind after a busy year and get right into the holiday mood.
From How the Grinch Stole Christmas, to Home Alone and Elf, here are some of the best classics to include in your holiday movie night and what streaming platforms you can watch them on in Canada.
Home Alone
Available on: Disney+
It’s hard to find another movie that screams Christmas classic more than Home Alone. This long-time family favourite features eight-year-old Kevin McCallister who ends up being accidentally left behind during a family vacation, and has to protect the house from two con men.
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Available on: Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Crave
This time of the year also calls for the world’s grumpiest anti-Christmas antagonist the Grinch, who decides to ruin the holiday for the citizens of Whoville, before learning that Christmas isn’t just about money and presents.
A Christmas Carol
Available on: Disney+, Crave
Another unforgettable Christmas antagonist is Ebenezer Scrooge, who takes over the reinvented classic A Christmas Carol by receiving a visit from three ghosts, who guide him through a journey of past, present and future that changes his ever-bitter mood.
Elf
Available on: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video
Elf embraces the magic and joy of the holiday season by following the story of Buddy, a man who was accidentally transported to the North Pole and raised by Santa’s elves, and decides to travel to New York to find out about his real past.
The Polar Express
Available on: Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video
In this holiday-themed adventure, a young boy who doesn’t believe in Santa Claus is invited to hop onto a North Pole-headed train, and embark on a journey to learn the true meaning of Christmas.
Love Actually
Available on: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Crave
Love Actually is known for being a heartwarming holiday rom-com. It follows nine characters with intertwined journeys in a countdown before Christmas, exploring the ups and downs, and the meaning of love.
Die Hard
Available on: Disney+
Those craving some action this holiday season can tune into Die Hard where New York policeman John McClane visits his estranged wife and daughters at a work holiday party before the party is suddenly interrupted by terrorists.
The Nightmare Before Christmas
Available on: Disney+
This film is the perfect transition between Halloween and the holiday season, following Halloweentown’s king Jack Skellington, who becomes enchanted with the colours and festive feel of Christmas and decides to take over the celebrations, but things soon go south.
Jingle All The Way
Available on: Crave, Disney+
In this family comedy, workaholic Howard Langston promises to get his son the hottest toy of the season; the problem is it’s already Christmas Eve. That’s when he runs into another father on the same quest, embarking on a journey to find the real meaning of Christmas.
The Best Man Holiday
Available on: Netflix
Comedy-drama The Best Man Holiday nails down the nostalgic vibes of the season, telling the story of a group of college friends who reunite over the holidays almost 15 years after the last time they were together.
It’s a Wonderful Life
Available on: Amazon Prime Video, Tubi
Those looking for some classic, black-and-white vibes and a tale of hope can follow the story of George Bailey, a man who is having suicidal thoughts despite it being Christmas time. Soon, his guardian angel intervenes and reminds him of all his good deeds.
A Christmas Story
Available on: Crave
Another beloved classic is A Christmas Story, which follows youngster Ralphie Parker, who dreams of his ideal Christmas gift, a “Red Ryder air rifle.” Navigating the Christmas time, Parker tries to navigate issues with bullies and a conflicting relationship with his father.
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
Available on: Crave, Hulu
In pursuit of the ideal Christmas, Clark Griswold prompts his wife and children to make everything perfect, from the tree to house decorations, but things quickly deviate from the plan when his family shows up out of the blue.
