Top 5 Christmas Movies

Brandi M. Seals

Everybody has their favorite Christmas movie. Some people like comedies like "Elf" starring Will Farrel. Others are traditionalists and prefer the movies they have seen every year since they were kids. Regardless of what category you fall into, you have to admit that some Christmas movies are better than others.

The Top 5 Christmas Movies

5.) National Lampoons: Christmas Vacation
This is one of my all time favorites. I watch it every year and it never gets old. Christmas Vacation is the story of the Griswald family and a Christmas gone wrong. Clark (Chevy Chase) does everything he can to have an old fashion, family Christmas. Unfortunately, the Christmas lights will not work, the turkey is dry, and anything that can go wrong does go wrong.

If you need to be cheered up or otherwise just want to see a Christmas that is guaranteed to be worse than yours, run out and rent National Lampoons: Christmas Vacation. My favorite is hillbilly cousin Eddie and his dog Snots. Watch and see just how bad Christmas can be.

4.) A Christmas Story
I love this movie but it is overplayed thanks to a 24 hour marathon every year. That makes some people hesitant to give the movie a chance which is really a shame. If you have not seen it before, give it a chance. I think you will be pleasantly surprised.

A Christmas Story is the tale of one boy and his pursuit of the perfect gift - a BB gun. Unfortunately, everyone thinks he will shoot his eye out if he gets one. This tale will take you back to your childhood and all the embarrassing things that ever happened. It really is a great movie. Best scene in the whole movie comes when a pack of dogs rip through the house and feast on the family's turkey.

3.) The Polar Express
The Polar Express is a movie based on a book by Chris Van Allsburg. The movie came out just a couple of years ago, and stars Tom Hanks. The premise is that there is a magic train that takes a handful of children to Santa's workshop on Christmas Eve. They get to watch as the sleigh gets loaded with all of the presents for children around the world and they get to meet Santa Claus.

This enduring tale might just become the newest holiday classic. The Polar Express is a movie that kids and adults alike will enjoy watching. Follow the movie up with a gift of the book edition for the kids.

2.) Its A Wonderful Life
Its Wonderful Life is a classic. It was first released in 1946 and stars Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed. The premise of the story is that good guy, George Bailey, spent his whole life giving up his dreams to benefit the town, but now he is depressed, even suicidal over misplacing an $8000 loan. His business is the only thing that is standing between the citizens of Bedford Falls and Mr. Potter, a grumpy old man who is trying to take over the town and now it is at risk. Luckily, George's guardian angel Clarence comes to the rescue. He shows George what life would be like if he had never been born. Soon George realizes that he really does have a wonderful life and everything works out.

1.) Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas
The famous children's author, Dr. Seuss wrote How the Grinch Stole Christmas and it was adapted into an animated movie in 1966. The half-hour film teaches viewers that Christmas is not about presents, it has to do with being together with family and friends.

The movie depicts a grinch that lives above Whoville. The cranky fellow wants to stop Christmas from coming so he dresses up as Santa and heads into town to steal every gift, decoration, and ounce of food. When all is said and done, the grinch returns home but hears the Whos celebrating. He is confused at first but soon learns the true meaning of the holiday.

This wonderful classic not only comes with a message, it is short and entertaining. Every kid I know absolutely loves How the Grinch Stole Christmas. And several adults are fans too.