Tis the season to grab your coziest blanket and warm hot chocolate and tune in to your favorite holiday movies. No matter what age you are, the chill in the air tells you the magical season has begun. State High is already feeling the holiday spirit as December is around the corner.
Senior Tahjay Jackson gave her insight on when the holiday movie marathons can begin.
“Once we hit the [lower] double digits of November, we can start watching holiday movies,” Jackson said.
Librarian Anne Kapinus commented on her husband’s holiday spirit.
“You would never guess in a million years that he likes those sappy, ridiculous movies but he does, and he becomes like a different person during holidays,” Kapinus said.
With this season bringing out the best in people, it’s time to look at viewer’s all-time favorite holiday movies.
“Elf”
Starting with the top Christmas Movie in the nation for 2023, according to The Hill, “Elf” is a perfect movie to watch with the family. This movie is known for being full of spirit and comedy, with the main character Buddy the Elf being played by Will Ferrell. Viewers feel he is the most fitting actor for this funny character.
Kapinus described her fondness for the movie and the main actor.
“They need to start making more Christmas movies that are at where he [Will Ferrell] set the bar,” Kapinus said.
Besides its comedic nature, this movie also has many aspects of the sentimental meaning of Christmas. The main storyline consists of the backstory of Buddy being raised by Santa, not knowing he is not an elf, but a human. He sets out to find his real father in New York City, bringing the Christmas spirit to all whom he interacts with.
“The Nightmare Before Christmas”
This childhood classic is very unique as it incorporates many holidays into one film.
“The Nightmare Before Christmas is a perfect combination of Halloween and Christmas, but also gives you a moral lesson on being thankful for what you have,” Jackson said.
With the overall meaning relating to Thanksgiving, this movie is a 3-in-1 holiday package! The story dives into the misadventures of Jack the Pumpkin King who is getting tired of his routine of only scaring people. He unexpectedly stumbles upon Christmastown which shows him warm spirits and bright colors, giving him a new enlightened perspective on life.
“Love Actually”
If looking for a love story, or love stories in this case, “Love Actually” is an essential watch. This movie consists of nine intertwined stories that examine the complexities of the one emotion that brings everyone together; love. Besides the romantic theme, this film is also a comedy.
Kapinus noted the incorporation of heartbreak, while also pointing out the heartwarming feelings and describing it overall as an uplifting film.
“The first time when it came out, my mom went and saw it in the movie theater, and she said, ‘Have you ever seen a movie that you loved so much that you just wanted to hug it? That’s how I felt about this movie.’” Kapinus said.
“The Grinch”
Dr. Seuss’s story, which originated as a book, continues to come to life every holiday season, as it now has 3 movie versions.
“You can watch the old one, the new one, it doesn’t matter,” Jackson said.
“The Grinch” is adored by all ages. The story begins with the Grinch and his loyal dog Max living by themselves in a cave. The Grinch despises Christmas and his neighbors never fail to make Christmas bigger and brighter every year, causing the Grinch to want to ruin it for everyone. It’s not until a young girl welcomes him into her family’s warm holiday celebration that he realizes the true meaning of Christmas; love and joy.
This list is only a few of the magical movies available to make your cold days a little warmer. Whether you want a good laugh or a sentimental love story, there are so many options to enjoy with your loved ones this holiday season.
