With the weather getting colder and the fall semester wrapping up, it’s obvious why many burnt out Northeastern University students are beginning to get excited about going home for the holidays. From decorations to ice skating to holiday shopping, this season is truly like no other. One of the best parts of the holiday season is spending quality time with family and friends, which is especially important for college students who haven’t been home in a long time or who live far away from home. This holiday season, grab some popcorn and hot cocoa and enjoy these top seven holiday movies with family and friends!
1. “Home Alone”
It’s highly likely that everyone has at least heard of this movie, and for good reason too, as it certainly won’t disappoint. The humor in “Home Alone” can be related to by most if not all viewers, as it gives a unique take on the childhood innocence of being left “home alone.” Released in 1990, this classic comedy follows eight-year-old Kevin McAllister as he is left to defend his house from two burglars after his family accidentally leaves him behind during Christmas vacation. Through a series of elaborate and creative traps, Kevin bravely tries to deter the criminals while providing plenty of comedic relief for the audience. Luckily, this movie is also a part of a trio for those who can’t get enough of Kevin’s hilarious character and holiday shenanigans. All three movies can be streamed on Disney+ or rented for $3.99 on YouTube and Apple TV.
2. “Elf”
Featuring the famous Will Farrell, “Elf”— released in 2003 — is another must-see holiday comedy that never gets old because of its ability to show audiences the experience of Christmas from the point of view of a hilarious elf. This movie follows a human elf named Buddy who was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a baby and raised among Santa’s elves. On a journey to discover his real father, since he doesn’t feel like he fits in with the other elves, Buddy travels to New York. Buddy’s journey in discovering and learning about the human lifestyle around the holidays is definitely worth an hour and a half of anyone’s time. This movie is available to stream on Hulu with a premium subscription and is also featured on HBO Max.
3. “Love Actually”
A romantic comedy set a month before Christmas in London, “Love Actually” (also released in 2003) follows the nine intertwined love stories of various couples. Through its telling of these various romances, the complexities of love are examined from a light-hearted and entertaining point of view. This movie is certainly worth watching for its diverse plotline, and can be rented on YouTube or Apple TV for $3.99.
4. “Die Hard”
An action/thriller movie that was originally released in 1988, “Die Hard” is a movie that everyone should watch at least once in their lives. Set during a Christmas party in Los Angeles around the holidays, this film follows an NYPD officer named John McClane as he tries to save several hostages (including his wife) from German terrorists who have taken control of a high-rise building. Every scene is either exciting, action-packed, or both, and the cinematography of this movie is sure not to disappoint. Thankfully, it’s also part of a six-movie series for those who can’t get enough after the first viewing. “Die Hard” can be streamed with either a Hulu or Amazon Prime subscription. It can also be rented for $3.99 on Amazon.
5. “The Nightmare Before Christmas”
While there is an ongoing debate over whether this is a holiday or Halloween movie, it can still be a great option for a movie night this winter break. Produced by Tim Burton and released in 1993, “The Nightmare Before Christmas” is a highly entertaining stop-motion animation featuring the fictional Jack Skellington, also known as the King of “Halloween Town.” After stumbling across a “Christmas Town,” Jack attempts to improve the holiday of Christmas because he is bored with the same old Halloween traditions. However, his efforts don’t go as planned, and his plans quickly become disastrous. This movie is available on Disney+, and can also be rented for $3.99 on YouTube or Apple TV.
6. “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas”
A family-friendly film (released in 2000) based on a childhood tale written by Dr. Seuss, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” is another great classic that will bring a little more joy into one’s holiday break. While it may seem better suited for children, this live-action adaptation can be enjoyed by all ages. Not only will it bring back great holiday memories from earlier years, but its light-hearted comedy will definitely help put you in a Christmas mood. For those who need a refresher on the plot, this story follows the Grinch as he tries to ruin Christmas for all the residents of Whoville. Throughout his mission, the Grinch is also joined by his adorable dog Max. This movie can be rented on YouTube for $3.99.
7. “The Polar Express”
Last but not least is a movie that many may remember watching as children, “The Polar Express” follows a young boy as he rides a train on a magical journey to the North Pole. Released in 2004, the characters and music from this movie are sure to bring a smile and more holiday cheer to anyone’s day. Seeing the characters dance, sing, and cheer on screen provides a captivating experience that will leave viewers wishing for that childhood innocence back. Additionally, as an animated movie, it’s a perfect choice for a family movie night, especially if there are younger siblings involved. This movie can be streamed with a premium subscription on Hulu or with an HBO Max subscription. It is also available for rent on YouTube for $3.99.
Whether it’s watching one or all of these movies this holiday season, or spending time with family and friends, Woof Magazine hopes everyone has a relaxing and well-deserved winter break!