As the holiday season approaches, there's nothing quite like curling up with a cup of hot chocolate and watching a Christmas movie. Here’s a countdown of the top 5 Christmas movies of all time, celebrating the spirit of the season.

 

5. Home Alone (1990)

Directed by Chris Columbus, this famous comedy tells the story of 8-year-old Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin), who is left home alone during Christmas while his family goes on holiday. When burglars try to break into his house, Kevin sets up a series of booby traps to defend his home. The film’s mix of family-friendly humour and heart-warming moments has made it an enduring holiday classic.

4. Elf (2003)

Will Ferrell’s portrayal of Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole, turned Elf into a modern holiday comedy classic. Directed by Jon Favreau, the film follows Buddy’s journey to New York City to find his real father, spreading Christmas cheer along the way. Packed with laughs, heart, and Ferrell’s signature charm, Elf has quickly become a must-watch for holiday film lovers of all ages.

 

3. The Polar Express (2004)

Directed by Robert Zemeckis, The Polar Express is a visually stunning animated film that has captivated audiences since its release. Based on the beloved children's book by Chris Van Allsburg, the movie follows a young boy’s magical journey to the North Pole aboard a mystical train. The movie's timeless themes of belief and wonder, combined with its ground-breaking animation, have earned it a place in holiday movie history.

2. Love Actually (2003)

Directed by Richard Curtis, the ensemble film weaves together multiple heart-warming (and sometimes heart-breaking) stories of love during the holiday season. Featuring a star-studded cast, including Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, and Colin Firth, Love Actually is a delightful mix of comedy, drama, and romance that’s perfect for any Christmas gathering. Rena Halpenny who watched 'Love Actually' in the cinema last Christmas said, 

"The movie is a classic, always bringing me on a rollercoaster of emotions whilst filling me with festive spirit!"

 

1. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966)

The original animated version of Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas, narrated by Boris Karloff, is an iconic holiday classic. The short cartoon, with its vibrant animation and catchy songs, tells the story of the Grinch, a villainous character who tries to steal Christmas from the residents of Whoville, only to discover that the true spirit of Christmas comes from the heart, not material possessions. The Grinch’s famous line, “Maybe Christmas doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas… perhaps… means a little bit more,” is one of the most cherished quotes in holiday cinema.