So, there are a slew of Christmas films, but I’m going to share with you the best films to watch for the holidays.
“Scrooged” is a classic, in my opinion. A modernized spin on an old classic with Bill Murray. I seriously doubt the awesomeness of this adaptation can be recreated (properly). It’s not only okay to watch for the kiddies, but good for the adults.
“A Christmas Story” A cult classic that will more than likely run all day on TBS [though I own the DVD]. This Christmas tale follows Ralphie, his home life, his school life, and his quest for a BB gun. The film didn’t do so well upon release, but is beloved by many today. I saw a snippet of the musical a week or so ago on The View….yeah, just stick with the original film, folks.
“Bad Santa” is crude and rated R and stars Billy Bob Thornton. But, like a lot of Christmas stories, it is a tale of self reflection, discovery and change. No, really. This film, come to think of it, is like an inverse of a Scrooge tale. Thornton’s Willie is a thief, a sex addict, and a drunk (and apparently, Thornton was actually drunk during filming). Brilliantly done film.
And finally, my number one pick, “It’s A Wonderful Life.” The black and white version, folks. Something that Jimmy Stewart actually fought for for all black and white films to maintain their integrity. I agree. “It’s A Wonderful Life” is a funny, witty tale of George Bailey, who has hit rock bottom and contemplates suicide. An angel takes him on a special journey to show him a world without him in it, and boy is it rotten. Don’t let the suicide attempt/contemplation fool you–this is still child friendly. There are also a ton of great lines that would go over a child’s head and that the parents (if they’re quick) will get. This film was also not well received upon release, but is a wonderful classic today.
Note: I think there should be a “Festivus” movie with the Costanzas. I’d pay to see that.
Scrooged, A Christmas Story and White Christmas are my all time favorite holiday films. I think I watch them once every year and catch them whenever they’re on cable. Netflix had White Christmas available for instant streaming and I was in musical heaven! I love know almost all the words to every song in the film and I absolutely love the dancing and costumes. Rosemary Clooney is phenomenal in this and so is Danny Kaye.
Never seen “A White Christmas,” but I’m not really big on musicals. Perhaps I’ll catch it on TV sometime.