Christmas Classics

"It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas" which means it's time to watch your favorite holiday classics. We all have, or should have, at least one Christmas film that we can't help but watch during this season.

This genre is always expanding (i.e. A Christmas Story, Elf, etc) but there is just something extra about those wonderful older classic films. Much like listening to Nat King Cole singing 'the Christmas Song' versus Michael Buble. Here's 10 Christmas classics everyone should enjoy....

10. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964) / Santa Claus is Coming to Town (1970) / Frosty the Snowman (1969)

(Yes, I cheated here and did a three for one deal.) These films are some of our childhood favorites and depending on who you are and your childhood, you will prefer one over the others. 

9. A Christmas Carol (1951)

Probably the most remade Christmas film, A Christmas Carol is definitely a classic. Whether you see the play, watch the movie or read Dicken's classic tale, this story is a must during the season to get you in the "Christmas spirit". 

8. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966)

Who can't resist Dr. Seuss' memorable sing song rhyme... "It came without ribbons. it came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from a store? What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more." 

7. The Bishop's Wife (1947)

Let's face it, 90% of the reason this is a great movie is Cary Grant. The ladies might enjoy this one a bit more but nonetheless, it has some superb acting and a heartwarming story.

6. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

Cue the piano. It just wouldn't be Christmas without some Charlie Brown. Easily the film with the best message of what Christmas is all about.

5. The Shop Around the Corner (1940)

A wonderful film to watch all the year round but some consider it a Christmas movie. This is the classic story which has been remade into the films 'In the Good Old Summertime' (1949) and 'You've Got Mail' (1998) as well as the 1978 Broadway musical 'She Loves Me'.

4. Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

Every year since I can remember I have watched this movie with my Daddy-O on Thanksgiving weekend. It has always been a great way to kick off the Christmas season in our household. 

3. Holiday Inn (1942)

What would we do at Christmastime without the enchanting music of Irving Berlin? This fun romantic comedy is great for any holiday but especially perfect during Christmas and New Year's.

2. It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

In my opinion, the most moving Christmas film there has ever been. Frank Capra is one of the great story tellers of our time and this is no exception.

1. White Christmas (1954)

We are all familiar with Bing Crosby's suave chorus of 'White Christmas'. Irving Berlin does it again with wonderful music and dancing in one happy Christmas motion picture.