There are many Christmas movies out there that people enjoy watching every time the season comes around. Some of these movies are really funny, some of them are extremely emotional. Some are animated, some are live action. And some are brand new, while others have been around for decades.
Depending on what kind of holiday movie you enjoy, there is something you can find to watch and get in the spirit. For many people, the best Christmas movies are ones that leave them feeling good.
If you want a warm and cozy feeling that warms your heart, these ten movies are sure to do just that.
THE SANTA CLAUSE
Many Christmas movies are about some kind of transformation. These kinds of movies tend to focus on a protagonist who is letting their family down by being selfish and materialistic, and who go on to learn about what really matters in life.
In The Santa Clause, Scott Calvin goes from being a businessman who isn’t doing a great job of being a parent to turning into Santa Claus. While it might not be the most heartwarming of all, and it’s also pretty funny, the ending of this movie brings everyone together. It will make you feel glad to celebrate the season with the people you are closest to.
HOME ALONE
Home Alone might seem like a strange movie to have in this list seeing as it’s one of the funniest Christmas movies out there. While the film might have a major storyline that’s just about two criminals getting beat up and outsmarted by a little kid, it will also leave you with a full heart.
Seeing Kevin reunite with his family at the end of the movie is really sweet, and this is an endearing movie that doesn’t hit you over the head with saccharine moments.
A CHRISTMAS STORY
This is another movie on the list that might seem like a surprise to include. After all, A Christmas Story is known mostly for its humorous moments, such as when Ralphie has to dress up in the pink bunny suit.
But, while this film is definitely hilarious, it’s also heartwarming. In the end, Ralphie gets a wonderful Christmas. He gets the BB gun he really wanted, and his entire family enjoys being together. He might almost shoot his eye out, but it’s definitely a film that celebrates what it’s like to be a kid at Christmas.
ELF
Elf is another example of the many hilarious holiday movies that also leave you feeling happy and warm. Buddy the elf takes audiences on a journey that helps you recognize the joys of the season.
In the end, Buddy gets all the family he could ever want, and he gets the best of both worlds. This is an endearing film that will have you and your loved ones excited about Santa, giving, and spending time together. Plus, you’ll definitely be laughing all the way.
MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET
Miracle on 34th Street is definitely one of the most iconic classic Christmas movies around. The original version of this movie came out in 1947, but it's popularity has endured ever since.
This is a movie that is all about the importance of believing in beautiful and magical things. It also speaks to the importance of family and relationships. If you love nostalgic films, watching the original is always a good bet, or you can go with the newer version that was released in 1994.
PRANCER
There are few things more heartwarming than movies about kids and animals. This story follows a child named Jessica whose mother has recently died and whose father is struggling to take over as both parents.
When she finds a wounded reindeer, she believes that it’s one of Santa's reindeer, Prancer. Seeing her take care of the reindeer and help him get back to Santa is really heartwarming. It will make you want to be kinder to the people you love and also help you believe in magic a little bit again.
A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS
A Charlie Brown Christmas is another movie on this list that has been a classic for decades. Many adults grew up watching this movie every year, and it continues to be a tradition for many people. This special is all about the important things in the season such as friendship.
You’ll love seeing Charlie finds his little tree and being reminded that Christmas isn’t all about having the most and best gifts. Also, seeing Snoopy and Woodstock is always a treat and makes this film especially adorable.
DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS
This tale is another classic that has been around for a long time, since the book was released in 1957. There have been multiple versions of this story told on screen, but one of the most fun is the live-action take from 2000. But, you can also watch the original animated tale if you would rather, or the new animated take from last year starring Benedict Cumberbatch.
Regardless, this tale of learning to care about others and to be giving is always heartwarming. It also reminds us all that even without all the trappings of the season that brings together and giving can make any Christmas feel good.
MICKEY’S ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS
There’s nothing that feels as cozy as watching some cartoons near the holiday season. You’ll definitely feel like a kid again when you watch Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas.
This movie is a collection of three short stories starring Mickey and friends. These tales are simple and endearing, and you’ll enjoy being able to relax and just think of the simple, good things in life.
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE
Of all the Christmas movies out there that have an important message, It’s a Wonderful Life is probably talked about the most. This movie definitely has its dark moments, but it’s a tale that’s all about hope.
This movie reminds us that every person is important and that by doing good deeds we touch the lives of hundreds of other people. It reminds us to do good and not be selfish and greedy, and it’s always an important movie about the worth of the individual.