During the holiday season, many families have a tradition of sitting down to watch their favorite Christmas films. From live-action to animated movies, there are many options. See below for the top Christmas movie recommendations. 

5) Elf: 

The Will Ferrell-led Christmas comedy follows an elf named Buddy who, as a child, was accidentally sent to the North Pole. He is then raised as an elf, constantly wondering why he is different from the rest of the elves in the North Pole. Buddy sets off to find his real family in New York City. “Elf” has become a cult classic Christmas film that is rewatched by many every holiday season. The film is directed by Jon Favreau; including stars like Will Ferrell, Zooey Deschanel, and Ed Asner. 

4) Home Alone: 

For a film that suffered from budgeting issues, a studio swap and plenty of other production issues, “Home Alone” was a smashing success when it was released on Nov. 16, 1990. The movie starred famous child actor Macaulay Culkin as young Kevin Mcallister, who is forgotten by his family and left home alone while they go on vacation for the holiday. Kevin soon realizes that his home is being scouted for a robbery. He must arm himself to defend his home against the bandits, played by Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern. 

3) Gremlins: 

Some may wonder how “Gremlins” could end up on a list that is solely focusing on Christmas movies; the movie features a holiday setting and includes a vast array of reptilian enemies who are somewhat reminiscent of Elves. “Gremlins” is a heartwarming and horrifying tale of a boy named Billy who is taught the meaning of responsibility and friendship when a Mogwai named Gizmo is bestowed upon him for Christmas. Before Billy could learn his lesson, Gizmo is exposed to water and the gremlins began to multiply, soon wreaking havoc amongst his hometown. “Gremlins” was written by “Home Alone” director Chris Columbus and directed by Joe Dante. 

2) The Grinch (1966):

No Christmas be complete without watching Dr. Seuss’s 1966 classic: “How The Grinch Stole Christmas.” The animated feature follows a green grump who dwells upon a mountain above the fictional town of Whoville. The town is inhabited by a society of jolly villagers who love to celebrate the holidays, spreading joy one ornament at a time. The Grinch soon tires of their christmas spirit and plans to venture to the small town and steal Christmas from the people of Whoville. In the end, the Grinch is taught the true meaning behind their celebration, coming together with the people closest to them while celebrating family and friendship, a classic cartoon ending.

1)Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: 

Possibly the best Christmas movie to ever grace the face of planet earth. This stop-motion feature follows the character of childhood songs: “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” an outcast from the other reindeer and a disappointment to his parents, Rudolph is cursed with a nose that glows of crimson red. Struggling with their miserable existence, Rudolph and an elf named Hermey set off to find meaning in the big tinsel ball they call home. Not soon after, they’re attacked by the monstrous Bumble, a raging snow beast who only knows rage. From there, they venture to the island of misfit toys where they come across toys suffering from an existence that is full of loneliness and decay. Rudolph eventually makes it home and is accepted by his peers and is even rewarded with the highest honor any reindeer could have, guiding Santa’s sleigh. “Rudolph the Rednosed-Reindeer” teaches viewers about acceptance and that being different isn’t something to be ashamed of. 

Honorable Mention) Batman Returns: 

Although it may seem a bit unorthodox, “Batman Returns” is a full-fledged holiday extravaganza. The film is slathered in holiday decor with Christmas around every corner. The premise of the movie structures itself around Christmas, kicking off at a tree lighting ceremony that brings two of the movie’s main antagonists face to face. The film simply was made to be a Christmas movie. “Batman Returns” follows the return of Michael Keaton’s Caped Crusader. This time he’s met with three more incredible villains, The Penguin played by Danny Devito, Catwoman played by Michelle Pfeiffer, and Max Shreck played by Christopher Walken.