Best Christmas Films
‘Tis the festive season...which can only mean one thing. Flicking through the television over the Christmas break you are sure to find these many Christmassy films. At Meadows Farm Studios we believe that one of the best ways to get in the festive spirit is by sitting back and watching a classic Christmas film. Many new Christmas films have tried (and failed) but here are our top six.
It’s A Wonderful Life (1946)
A timeless Christmas classic, the festive season wouldn’t be quite the same without it. The bittersweet comedy/drama follows the life of George Bailey. Suffering under the strain of financial ruin and other complications, Bailey considers himself a failure and contemplates suicide. It’s not all sad though as the bumbling angel Clarence Oddbody shows Bailey all of the multiple selfless acts he has performed throughout his lifetime. Seeing how life would be without him, he soon learns he’s had a wonderful life.
The Polar Express (2004)
Entering the shelf as a modern Christmas classic, the film captured the hearts of children and parents alike. When a young boy questions the true meaning of Christmas and Santa Claus, a magical train journey opens up his mind to the wonderful world of those who believe. Using innovative animation techniques, it features human characters animated with the live action performance capture technique, to make the characters feel and look even more real.
Miracle On 34th Street (1947)
The original film focuses on a man named Kris Kringle who must prove that he is Santa Claus to a doubting jury and officials, as well as a little girl. After filling in for a drunken actor playing Santa in a department store, no one believes him when he tells them he is the real Santa. But there is something inherently special about the man and his determination to capture the true spirit of Christmas.
How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Dr Seuss’ book is brought to life in this vibrant and eccentric release. The grumpy green Grinch, a hermit living in a rubbish dump near Whoville, is challenged with changing his view on life and Christmas. When he attempts to steal Christmas and destroy the love felt by the Whos, a small child, Cindy Lou Who, becomes a friend of the Grinch. Proving that Christmas can be enjoyed by everyone, Dr Seuss’ adaptation is heart-warming and funny.
The Snowman (1982)
The ‘Walking In The Air’ soundtrack for this film is known by people everywhere and where would Christmas be without hearing it. Although the film is short in length and completely soundless (except for the song), it is still just as popular amongst families today. The animated adventure about a young boy who makes a snowman only for it to come alive is truly creative. The adventures to the North Pole and with the snowmen continue in the latest The Snowman and the Snowdog (2012).
The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
One of the many adaptations of Charles Dicken’s A Christmas Carol, the Muppets succeed in retelling the tale, being one of the most faithful versions of the book. Despite the presence of the Muppets, the film is still able to capture the seriousness of Dickens’ novel, exposing the cold ways of Ebenezer Scrooge. The night-time visitations by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future may be frightful but they turn around Scrooge’s heart.
Here at Meadows Farm Studios we wish you all the most wonderful Christmas and New Year! Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us about our studio availability in 2015. Why not spend your festive break having a look through the rest of our blog too!
(All images via Rotten Tomatoes)