Another year is quietly slipping away. Time moves steadily, step by step, and before we realize it, yet another year is almost behind us. Not every year touches everyone in the same way—some arrive bearing the weight of sorrow, while others leave behind the hidden joys of a life well-lived. Yet through it all, one thing remains beautifully constant: movies. There’s a special magic in winter evenings spent curled up under a blanket at home, or gathered with family and friends, all sharing the simple joy of watching a film together. That warm excitement, the gentle thrill of counting down to Christmas, stays with us.
And then there are those timeless films—the ones that spark that familiar, cozy feeling for everyone in the household, from the little ones to the grandparents—keeping the holiday spirit alive, year after year.
Home Alone (1990)
Genre: Comedy, Family, Holiday
Director: Chris Columbus | Writer: John Hughes
Main Cast: Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern, Catherine O’Hara, John Heard, Roberts Blossom, John Candy (cameo)
Few Christmas movies are as universally beloved as Home Alone. This timeless classic is a delightful whirlwind of chaos, laughter, and holiday fun. The story follows clever young Kevin McCallister, who is accidentally left behind when his family rushes off for their Christmas vacation. Alone at home, Kevin navigates a series of hilarious mishaps, outsmarts two bumbling burglars with his ingenious traps, and keeps audiences on edge, hoping he’ll reunite with his family in time. While the film spawned five sequels, nothing quite matches the charm, freshness, and magic of the original. That said, the sequels are worth a watch for more holiday mischief.
Elf (2003)
Genre: Comedy, Family, Fantasy, Holiday
Director: Jon Favreau | Writer: David Berenbaum
Main Cast: Will Ferrell, James Caan, Zooey Deschanel, Mary Steenburgen, Bob Newhart, Ed Asner, Daniel Tay, Faizon Love
Elf has become a modern Christmas cult classic. The story follows Buddy, a human raised as an elf at the North Pole, who embarks on a journey to New York City to find his real father and discover his true identity. Packed with humor, heartfelt moments, and the magical charm of Santa Claus, this film is a joyful, 97-minute celebration of holiday cheer and the wonder of believing.
The Polar Express (2004)
Genre: Animated Adventure, Family, Fantasy, Holiday
Director: Robert Zemeckis | Writers: Robert Zemeckis, William Broyles Jr. (based on the book by Chris Van Allsburg)
The Polar Express is a beautifully animated holiday gem that captures the magic of believing. On Christmas Eve, a skeptical young boy boards a mysterious train that whisks him to the North Pole. Along the way, he encounters new friends, discovers the wonders of Santa’s world, and experiences the enchantment of the season. It’s a heartwarming adventure that delights children and adults alike.
A Christmas Carol (2009)
Genre: Animation, Family, Fantasy, Drama
Director: Robert Zemeckis
Main Cast: Jim Carrey as Ebenezer Scrooge / Ghost of Christmas Past / Ghost of Christmas Present / Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come, Gary Oldman as Bob Cratchit / Tiny Tim, Colin Firth as Fred, Robin Wright as Belle, Cary Elwes as Stave
For a darker, yet classic holiday tale, Disney’s animated A Christmas Carol, directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring Jim Carrey, brings Charles Dickens’ timeless story to life. With stunning animation and rich storytelling, the film revisits Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey from a miserly, cynical man to one who embraces generosity and compassion. It’s a reminder that Christmas is a time for reflection, redemption, and giving.
By Subinoy Das
