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The best Christmas movies to watch

If you’re not glued to the TV Christmas specials and need a break from the kitchen, why not enjoy some festive films? From toddlers and teenagers to mother-in-laws and girlfriends there’s something for everyone. Consult our list of the best Christmas films for some festive inspiration!
By Victoria Crowe
Text, Happy, Facial expression, Jaw, Interaction, Sharing, Poster, Love, Romance, Photo caption,
1

Best classic - It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

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A true Christmas classic and one you must see this December. Starring James Stewart and Donna Reed, It's a Wonderful Life is a touching tear-jerker.

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2

Best comedy - Elf (2003)

Human, Poster, Costume design, Costume hat, Fictional character, Illustration, Vintage clothing, Humour, Animation, Costume accessory,

A man raised as an elf (Will Ferrell) with an overwhelming enthusiasm for Christmas will warm even the coldest hearts on a wintery night.

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3

Best romance - Love, Actually (2003)

Face, Head, Nose, Lip, Mouth, Chin, Forehead, Eyebrow, Facial expression, Jaw,

From Mark and Juliet to Daniel and Sam, this film is the star-studded romcom you have to watch this Christmas (if only to watch Hugh Grant dancing in No.10).

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4

Best heartwarming story - Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

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Another Christmas classic this film is well worth a watch for an uplifting hour and a half.

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5

Best for watching with the kids - Home Alone (1990)

Nose, Lip, Cheek, Chin, Forehead, Jaw, Baby & toddler clothing, Sweater, Publication, Knitting,

What could be more heartwarming than a couple of men sabotaged by a young boy left home alone at Christmas? A funny film that both you and the kids will love.

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6

Best for cuddling by the fire - The Holiday (2008)

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With Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet swapping lives and Christmasses in The Holiday, this feel-good film is perfect for a romantic night in.

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7

Best for a Muppet Christmas - The Muppets Christmas Carol (1992)

Animation, Toy, Animated cartoon, Fictional character, Fiction, Animal figure, Bear, Publication, Graphics, Graphic design,

Kermit and the gang get together for a funny, silly version of A Christmas Carol. A film the kids will love and  it’ll make you laugh.

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8

Best to entertain the kids - Dr Seuss's How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

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Kids love the Grinch’s silly antics and light-hearted feel of this film, plus it’s very easy watching.

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9

Best for a Christmas truce - Joyeux Noël (2005)

Poster, Blazer, Overcoat, Vintage clothing, Frock coat, Illustration, Graphic design,

A good one to commemorate the centenary of the First World War, this French film – which depicts the 1914 Christmas truce – is sombre but touching and beautiful.

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10

Best 1930s Scrooge – A Christmas Carol (1938)

Human, Text, Poster, Costume hat, Advertising, Illustration, Vintage clothing, Costume accessory, Publication, Fiction,

A classic of a classic and the oldest in our gallery. For many, this is the ultimate version of A Christmas Carol.

(All images from Amazon)

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11

Best for Burton fans - The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Fiction,

When the king of Halloweentown discovers Christmas Town, Santa is harrassed by his ghoulish neighbours. Funny and farcical, this is a good movie for childen and teenagers.

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12

Best for all the family - A Christmas Carol (2009)

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A classic starring Jim Carrey and Gary Oldman, this animated version of A Christmas Carol is very watchable.

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13

Best for laughs - The Santa Clause (1994)

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Charming and silly, this Santa film will have you laughing through to the New Year.

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14

Best Christmas musical - White Christmas (1954)

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We’re all dreaming of a white Christmas and there is plenty of singing and dancing in this uplifting musical.

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15

Best for Disney fans - Frozen (2013)

Human, Animation, Animated cartoon, Art, Cartoon, Fictional character, Illustration, Fiction, Painting, Humour,

Frozen frenzy really hit the UK last Winter and it’s still going strong. If you or your little ones love Anna and Elsa, Christmas is a good excuse to put this icy fairy tale on.

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16

Best for walking in the air – The Snowman (1982)

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A musical journey to the North Pole and presents from Father Christmas, with a snowman who comes to life? It’s every childhood dream!

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17

Best action movie - Die Hard (1988)

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Set on Christmas Eve with Bruce Willis and lots of action – this is a less festive option with plenty of bang.

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18

Best for slapstick - Ernest Saves Christmas (1988)

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Ernest’s efforts to save Christmas are hapless, funny and silly. Good if you like a slapstick comedy.

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19

Best for brotherly love - Fred Claus (2007)

Winter, Holiday, Fictional character, Sled, Space, Illustration, Fiction, Christmas eve, Santa claus, Christmas,

Who knew Santa has an estranged brother? A family comedy with a light-hearted lesson.

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20

Best for after dinner - The Polar Express (2004)

World, Space, Poster, Fictional character, Graphic design, Book,

An exciting train journey, Christmas Eve and Father Christmas. This film is ideal with a glass of mulled wine and a warm mince pie.

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