LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. — Among the many festive activities to participate in during the holiday season, one of the best is wrapping up on the couch, hot chocolate in hand and flicking on a Christmas movie. Below are five different holiday films to enjoy during the month of December.
“It’s a Wonderful Life”
Starting with a classic, this 1946 American Christmas drama is a must-watch during the holiday season. James Stewart stars as George Bailey, a financially and emotionally struggling businessman who finds himself at his wits’ end on Christmas Eve. With the help of an angel sent from Heaven (Henry Travers), George Bailey experiences an extraordinary series of events and eventually realizes the true value of his life. “It’s a Wonderful Life” is the epitome of a feel-good, family-friendly film with themes of hope and human connection.
“What is remarkable about ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ is how well it holds up over the years; it’s one of those ageless movies … that improves with age,” said Roger Ebert in his 1999 review.
“Klaus”
Showcasing a unique style of hand-drawn, two-dimensional animation, “Klaus” is a new and modern seasonal favorite. The film’s story revolves around Jesper, an entitled son of a postal magnate. To prove his worth, Jesper is tasked with running a post office in a lifeless town where no one sends letters. Here, Jesper meets Klaus, a woodsman who handmakes toys. Together, the two work to spark change and festivity within the community, creating new holiday traditions. Especially enjoyable for children, “Klaus” takes audiences on a heartfelt journey, depicting how small acts of kindness can ripple into something unimaginable.
“Elf”
Directed by Jon Favreau and starring Will Ferrell, perhaps no film does Christmas comedy as well as “Elf.” Raised under Santa and his elves, Buddy, the human-elf, departs from the North Pole and sets off on a quest to New York City to find his biological father. From picking gum off of trash cans in Times Square, to wreaking havoc in Gimbels Department Store, the fascinating adventures of Buddy capture viewers with a smile. Not only does “Elf” provide a good laugh, but it also explores deeper themes of family and emits a fresh wave of Christmas spirit onto audiences.
“I love watching ‘Elf’ with my friends and family because it always gets me in the Christmas spirit,” said Maya Asumbrado, a senior at Los Alamitos High School.
“Die Hard”
Not your traditional Christmas movie, “Die Hard” has crept its way into many holiday movie nights. Set on Christmas Eve, police officer John McClane (Bruce Willis) is visiting Los Angeles to see his estranged wife at her company’s Christmas celebration. In a dramatic turn of events, the corporate party becomes overrun by a group of dangerous criminals, and it is up to McClane to save his wife and her co-workers. For action movie lovers wanting a break from cheesy holiday films, “Die Hard” is a fast-paced, suspenseful thriller that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
“Home Alone”
Concluding with yet another Christmas classic, the 1990 film is one of the highest-grossing comedies of all time. Starring Macaulay Culkin as 8-year-old Kevin McCallister, the McCallister family accidentally leaves Kevin home alone on their trip to Paris. Having the house to himself, Kevin spends his time exploring his newfound independence and freedom. However, things get real when Kevin realizes he must defend his family’s home from a crooked pair of burglars. In a flurry of chaotic and intricate scenes, “Home Alone” highlights childhood imagination and conveys an important message about family.
“I love ‘Home Alone’ because it gives me nostalgia of Christmas, and the character of Kevin is so iconic; every time I watch it, it makes me laugh,” Ella Pardasani, a senior at LAHS, said.
