Elf could be…no, IS, the funniest movie, not only of the Christmas season, but of the entire year. Will Ferrell stars in this unforgettable film about a baby orphan adopted into a community of elves by Santa Clause. We take journey a with “Buddy the Elf” on his trip to New York City in search of his biological father, only to be rejected by his big city dad. I’m giving you twenty seconds to go Netflix this movie or begin downloading it on iTunes…starting NOW.
3. The Grinch
“You’re a mean one Mr. Grinch! You reaaaallyy areeee a heeeeelll!” That’s right folks, it’s Mr. Grinch, and this holiday season, he’s going to steal Christmas (poor whos!). Dr. Seuss’s children story goes from the books to Hollywood with the making of this 1996 animated film. It will keep you singing, laughing, crying, (possibly even being a little scared) when you see the evil creature dress up as Santa to steal presents from Whoville, don’t worry though, like all G rated films, this tale comes with a happy ending, leaving you smiling as you sip your hot cocoa and indulge on holiday sweets.
4. Home Alone
Ever been left in a mall for a few minutes by yourself (or in my case, a few hours), or heard your name go on the loudspeaker in a grocery store because your mom couldn’t find you? (yep, that happened too…). How about when your entire family goes on a Christmas vacation out of the country and leaves you home alone? Can’t say that’s happened to me, but in the 1990 film, “Home Alone,” it’s not all fun and games for one 8 year old, when two burglars greet him at his doorstep. Through tricks and booty traps, this little kid creates a plan to outsmart two criminals, providing some humor to brighten up your holiday spirits. Up for a good laugh? Well buckle your sleigh belt for this hilarious film.
5. Four Christmases
Vince Vaughn + Reese Witherspoon = nothing short of amazing. “Four Christmases” is the story of a couple’s visit to their divorced parents’ four separate Christmases. Invite yourself on a trip to visit a cast of unforgettable characters and watch the funniest four “home for the holidays” scenarios you could imagine. If you’re sick with the December flu or are lucky enough to finish your homework early, be sure to take the hour and a half to road trip with Vince and Reese, and see if your families’ Christmas shenanigans come close to the ones of this must-see.
Hanukkah Movies
1. Full Court Miracle – 2003 DCOM (Disney Channel Original Movie)
For those of you non-Christmas celebrators, the story of a fat guy in a red suit delivering presents may not exactly be your way of celebrating Hanukkah. Well get ready to light your menorah, in the 2003 DCOM (Disney Channel Original Movie), “Full Court Miracle”, where freshman Alex Schlotsky plays on a struggling basketball team, yet has the dream of winning the Liberty Tournament and defeating his school’s rivals. Determined to find their “Judah Maccabee” to lead their team, Alex comes across a former basketball star, who helps to lead the team to victory. This touching film will leave you remembering what the holiday spirits are all about, letting you know that nothing is impossible.
2. Eight Crazy Nights
Even if you don’t identify as Jewish, stopping by the library to pick up “Eight Crazy Nights” is a must for Hanukkah. Starring Adam Sandler, this 2002 animated musical comedy will make you laugh, make you cry, and make you renew your rental for another watch. As you gather around the TV for some of Sandler’s best comedic work yet, follow protagonist Davey Stone’s hilarious holiday season, and make this Hanukkah movie a classic. Not that we’ll ever forget our favorite childhood Hanukkah animated classics, but this recent film incorporates a more mature and original comedy that will leave you laughing until you cry. Be sure to dedicate one of your eight crazy nights to watching this movie! You won’t regret one minute of it.
