‘Tis the season…and since I am in Minnesota, that doesn’t just mean it’s the holiday season. It also means it’s winter, so ’tis the season to stay inside, sip hot cocoa and stream the cold days away (especially since this gem is still new and shiny and full of goodies). For this week’s Friday High Five, I thought why not think about the best way to combine these two seasons? Why not talk holiday movies?
These comes from a place of cultural relevance and enjoyment rather than religious sentiment, so I hope that no matter your reason for the season, be it man or miracle, you can enjoy these festive films as much as I do!
1.) CHRISTMAS VACATION
This is probably a “Duh” inclusion, as it is so common, but it is a favorite. The trials and tribulations of Clark’s good ‘ol fashion family Christmas is relatable on so many levels. The terrible turkey. A burning tree. Guest overstaying their welcome. No matter what you celebrate, we can all sympathize with that.
2.) ELF
Will Ferrell as an elf, struggling through a winterized New York City and his daddy issues while falling in love for the first time. It’s funny and heartwarming, which is what the holiday season is all about.
3.) HOME ALONE + HOME ALONE 2
I am a true child of the 80s and 90s, so these are top-notch holiday viewing in my opinion. John Hughes is a king movie maker, and these are two of his gems. No, they are not wholly realistic, but they are fun and make the viewer feel literally all the feels during (there’s tarantulas AND pigeons. Seriously the stuff of nightmares).
4.) AN AMERICAN TAIL
This is not traditionally a holiday movie, no, but it starts with Hanukkah, so that’s something. Shoot, if Die Hard is a Christmas movie, this can be a Hanukkah movie.
5.) THE OG GRINCH
A person cannot go through the American public school system and NOT love this. It’s a true classic with an awesome lesson at the end. Yes, it is a little creepy, but it’s a goody, too.
What did I forget in my list? Comment below with your favorite holiday flick!
Kayla Lee is a Minnesota-based wedding and elopement photographer. She provides services to elegant, authentic, sentimental couples who not only choose their own adventures, but also live them to the fullest!