My Favorite Christmas Movies 2023

As the supreme month of all the twelve steps in and the thoughts of everyone are consumed with cookies, Christmas shopping, cookies, Christmas activities, and last of all, cookies with some eggnog thrown in somewhere along the way, a cozy evening watching a movie creates a peaceful break from the mayhem.

While the thought of a Christmas movie most often accompanies the word, Hallmark, some of the best holiday movies were filmed long before this modern trend. These are the ones deemed classics in my family, which we've been watching every year for as long as I can remember.

So, I've thrown together a list of my favorite movies for Christmas time, and I'll tell you straight out it doesn't include the most popular ones people inevitably praise when asked about their choice in holiday cinema. Oh, yes, I can already imagine the description of old soul materializing as you read, but my young entertainment life was permeated with movies from the 1930s, 40s, and 50s, so this would be nothing I do not already know, accept, and embrace.

White Christmas (1954)

Absolute, absolute favorite! The humor and combination of Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera-Ellen are tops! And then the lovely wardrobe designed by Edith Head, and the excellent choreography throughout make for a one-of-the-kind classic for all ages!

Christmas in Connecticut (1945)

The homey, country farm vibe plays a big part in making this one very compelling to me for a cozy Christmas.

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year (2008)

Henry Winkler is a major factor in propelling the plot along with his conniving, and I like what his character adds to what might have been the usual guy-meets-girl story Hallmark perpetuates.

The Christmas Card (2006)

Again, I like how the extra characters of her family play pivotal roles in building up the plot with humor. The military aspect is interesting, and lastly, who doesn't like a soldier???

Lady on a Train (1945)

After so many Christmas romances, I find it refreshing to take a break and watch this mystery, still taking place during Christmas, mind you, and with one of my favorite actresses, Deanna Durbin!

It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

Though not quite theologically correct in some aspects, the value of every life shines through with a deeper message than your average shallow Christmasy film, where they claim the essence of Christmas is all feel-goody, with some phony goodwill toward those around you, and nothing more.

A Christmas Carol (1938, 1951)

The earlier movie with Reginald Owen is the ultimate Christmas Carol for me, filled with the laughter and smiling faces of the Cratchits despite their impoverished circumstances. The only downside is the condensing of the story, and that is where Alistair Sim's version comes in with a more in-depth look at the Dicken's classic and gradual and authentic change in the character of Scrooge.

Silver Bells (2005)

For a Hallmark, this one is rich in character development and plentiful supporting roles that make for a well-rounded story. And I imagine it is largely due to the fact it was based on a novel.

A Season for Miracles (1999)

Once again, this was based on a novel, which is why it's probably so unique. Can Hallmark go back to basing their films on actual novels instead of defaulting to those corny formulas they use for plots?

 So, there you go! What are some of your favorite Christmas movies to watch for the holiday season? I'd love to hear about them. Go ahead and comment below - I won't judge!