The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the spirit than by cozying up with some classic Christmas movies? While streaming services have made it easier than ever to access a wide range of films, there's something special about watching a physical DVD copy of your favorite holiday classics. In this article, we'll count down seven Christmas classics that are sure to get you in the mood for the most wonderful time of the year.
7. White Christmas (1954)
Directed by Michael Curtiz and starring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, and Rosemary Clooney, White Christmas is a musical romantic comedy that follows two soldiers who team up with a sister act to save their former commanding officer's failing ski resort. With its catchy Irving Berlin soundtrack and charming performances, White Christmas is a holiday classic that's sure to delight audiences of all ages.
Why it's a classic:
- Features the iconic song "White Christmas," which has become synonymous with the holiday season
- Showcases the talents of Bing Crosby, one of the most popular entertainers of the 20th century
- Offers a unique blend of music, comedy, and romance that's hard to find in modern holiday films
6. Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
Directed by George Seaton and starring Edmund Gwenn, Maureen O'Hara, and John Payne, Miracle on 34th Street is a heartwarming tale about a department store Santa Claus who claims to be the real deal. With its gentle humor and emphasis on the importance of faith and kindness, Miracle on 34th Street is a timeless classic that's perfect for families and children of all ages.
Why it's a classic:
- Offers a unique and thoughtful exploration of the true meaning of Christmas
- Features a standout performance from Edmund Gwenn as Kris Kringle
- Has been remade several times, but the original remains the most beloved
5. A Christmas Story (1983)
Directed by Bob Clark and starring Peter Billingsley, Melinda Dillon, and Darren McGavin, A Christmas Story is a nostalgic comedy set in the 1940s about a young boy's quest to get a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. With its witty humor and relatable characters, A Christmas Story is a holiday classic that's become a staple of many family's Christmas traditions.
Why it's a classic:
- Offers a hilarious and poignant portrayal of childhood in the 1940s
- Features a memorable performance from Peter Billingsley as Ralphie Parker
- Has become a cultural touchstone, with references to the film appearing in everything from TV shows to music videos
4. It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
Directed by Frank Capra and starring James Stewart, Donna Reed, and Lionel Barrymore, It's a Wonderful Life is a feel-good drama about a small-town businessman who gets a chance to see what the world would be like if he'd never been born. With its powerful message and outstanding performances, It's a Wonderful Life is a holiday classic that's widely regarded as one of the greatest films of all time.
Why it's a classic:
- Features a powerful performance from James Stewart as George Bailey
- Offers a timeless and thought-provoking exploration of the importance of community and kindness
- Has been named one of the greatest films of all time by numerous critics and organizations
3. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
Directed by Bill Melendez and starring Peter Robbins, Christopher Shea, and Tracy Stratford, A Charlie Brown Christmas is a beloved animated special about the Peanuts gang and their search for the true meaning of Christmas. With its charming characters and poignant message, A Charlie Brown Christmas is a holiday classic that's perfect for families and children of all ages.
Why it's a classic:
- Features a timeless and relatable portrayal of childhood anxiety and uncertainty
- Offers a powerful exploration of the importance of kindness and compassion
- Has become a cultural touchstone, with references to the special appearing in everything from TV shows to music videos
2. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989)
Directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik and starring Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo, and Randy Quaid, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation is a hilarious holiday comedy about a well-meaning but hapless family man who's determined to have a perfect Christmas with his family. With its witty humor and memorable characters, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation is a holiday classic that's become a staple of many family's Christmas traditions.
Why it's a classic:
- Offers a hilarious and relatable portrayal of holiday stress and chaos
- Features a standout performance from Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold
- Has become a cultural touchstone, with references to the film appearing in everything from TV shows to music videos
1. Elf (2003)
Directed by Jon Favreau and starring Will Ferrell, James Caan, and Zooey Deschanel, Elf is a heartwarming holiday comedy about a human raised by elves who goes to New York City to find his birth father and spread Christmas cheer. With its witty humor and charming performances, Elf is a holiday classic that's perfect for families and children of all ages.
Why it's a classic:
- Offers a unique and hilarious take on the traditional Christmas story
- Features a standout performance from Will Ferrell as Buddy the Elf
- Has become a modern holiday classic, with references to the film appearing in everything from TV shows to music videos
We hope this list has helped you get into the holiday spirit and inspired you to watch some classic Christmas movies on DVD. Whether you're a fan of nostalgic dramas, witty comedies, or heartwarming animated specials, there's something on this list for everyone.
What's the best way to watch Christmas movies on DVD?
+The best way to watch Christmas movies on DVD is to gather your loved ones around the TV, make some hot cocoa, and snuggle up under a blanket. You can also make it a special event by decorating the room, making Christmas cookies, or even having a Christmas movie marathon.
What's the most popular Christmas movie of all time?
+According to various polls and ratings, It's a Wonderful Life (1946) is widely considered the most popular Christmas movie of all time. However, other classics like Miracle on 34th Street (1947) and A Christmas Story (1983) are also extremely popular and have become staples of many family's Christmas traditions.
Can I still buy Christmas movies on DVD?
+Yes, you can still buy Christmas movies on DVD from various online retailers, such as Amazon, Walmart, or Best Buy. You can also check your local video rental stores or second-hand shops for DVD copies of your favorite Christmas classics.