Charthouse’s Holiday Favorites
As we dream of snowflakes dancing outside our studio windows in beautiful San Diego, we've curated a collection of the Charthouse owners favorite Christmas classics that are sure to warm your heart and leave you humming carols well into the New Year. From the timeless tales that have become annual traditions to hidden gems that twinkle with overlooked brilliance, our list is a celebration of the merry and magical moments that only the silver screen can capture.
Film Stills: Die Hard, It’s A Wonderful Life, & How The Grinch Stole Christmas
Credit: Twentieth Century Fox, Liberty Films, & Universal Films
Andrew:
Die Hard: “Die Hard" has earned its status as a beloved Christmas movie that everyone knows and loves. Its action-packed narrative, centered around Bruce Willis battling terrorists on Christmas Eve, has become a holiday tradition for many. With its iconic scenes, memorable quotes, and festive chaos, "Die Hard" has seamlessly woven itself into the fabric of Christmas movie nostalgia.
It’s A Wonderful Life: "It's a Wonderful Life" stands as a timeless Christmas classic that everyone knows and loves. Jimmy Stewart's portrayal of George Bailey, the man who contemplates the impact of his life with the help of an angel, has become synonymous with the holiday season. Its heartwarming message, touching moments, and enduring charm have solidified its place as a must-watch Christmas film cherished by generations.
How The Grinch Stole Christmas: The Grinch" has secured its spot as a beloved Christmas favorite that everyone knows and loves. Jim Carrey's vibrant and comedic performance as the green, holiday-hating character adds a unique charm to the film. With its whimsical setting in Whoville, memorable quotes, and the Grinch's heartwarming transformation, it has become an essential part of the festive movie lineup that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Nate:
Elf: A favorite in most homes is a heartwarming and hilarious modern Christmas classic. Will Ferrell's portrayal of Buddy, a human raised by elves, brings a delightful blend of childlike wonder and humor to the story. As Buddy embarks on a journey to find his father in bustling New York City, the film captures the essence of the holiday season with its sweet moments and infectious Christmas spirit.
Christmas Vacation: A perennial holiday favorite that showcases the comedic chaos of the Griswold family's attempts at a picture-perfect Christmas. Chevy Chase's portrayal of Clark Griswold brings a blend of humor and heartfelt moments as his festive plans take unexpected and uproarious turns. Packed with iconic scenes and mishaps, the film has secured its place as a cherished and hilarious addition to the holiday movie lineup.
A Christmas Story: A beloved holiday classic that follows the adventures of young Ralphie as he navigates the challenges of growing up in 1940s Indiana. Set against the backdrop of the Christmas season, the film captures the essence of childhood wonder and the quest for the perfect Christmas gift – in Ralphie's case, a Red Ryder BB gun. Filled with humor, nostalgia, and heartwarming moments, "A Christmas Story" has become a timeless tale that resonates with audiences of all ages
Film Still: Elf, Christmas Vacation. & A Christmas Story
Credit: New Line Cinema, National Lampoon, & MGM
Film Stills: Catch Me If You Can, Edward Scissorhands, The Apartment
Credit: Dreamworks Pictures, Twentieth Century Fox, & The Mirisch Company
Tommy:
Catch Me If You Can:
While "Catch Me If You Can" isn't a traditional Christmas movie, its engaging plot and Leonardo DiCaprio's captivating performance make it a film that many people know and appreciate during the holiday season. The cat-and-mouse chase between DiCaprio's character, Frank Abagnale Jr., and Tom Hanks' FBI agent, combined with the movie's witty humor and clever schemes, provides a compelling and entertaining escape. Though not explicitly Christmas-themed, its timeless appeal often finds its way into festive movie marathons, offering a different kind of excitement for those looking to mix up their holiday watchlist.
Edward Scissorhands: While "Edward Scissorhands" may not seem like a Christmas movie out the gate, its enchanting and whimsical tale, coupled with Johnny Depp's poignant portrayal of the titular character, has endeared it to many during the holiday season. The film's themes of acceptance, love, and the magic of creativity resonate well with the festive spirit. With its snowy suburban setting and heartfelt story, "Edward Scissorhands" has become a unique and emotionally resonant choice for those seeking a touch of magic in their Christmas movie lineup.
The Apartment: "With The Apartment" ‘s timeless charm and bittersweet romance, set against the backdrop of the holiday season, it is a compelling choice for those seeking a different kind of festive film. Jack Lemmon's endearing performance and the film's exploration of love, loneliness, and the human connection add depth to its appeal during the holidays. With its cozy atmosphere and heartwarming moments, "The Apartment" has carved out its own niche in the realm of unconventional yet beloved Christmas classics.
Jon:
Home Alone: Home Alone" has cemented itself as the ultimate millennial Christmas movie, capturing the hearts of a generation with its nostalgic blend of humor, mischief, and heartfelt moments. Released in the early '90s, it became a defining part of many millennials' holiday traditions. Macaulay Culkin's mischievous Kevin McCallister, the ingenious booby traps, and the film's overall charm perfectly encapsulate the quintessential childhood Christmas experience for those who grew up in the '90s. The movie's enduring popularity among millennials is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to evoke cherished memories of holidays past.
The Muppet Christmas Carol: “The Muppet Christmas Carol" stands out as one of the funniest Christmas classics and arguably the best adaptation of Dickens' timeless story. The Muppets' whimsical and irreverent take on the characters injects a delightful humor into the narrative, making it a joyous and entertaining holiday watch. Michael Caine's earnest portrayal of Scrooge adds depth to the comedy, creating a perfect balance that has made this adaptation a perennial favorite for laughter and heartwarming Christmas cheer.
Jingle All The Way:
"Jingle All the Way" often flies under the radar, but it's an underrated Christmas classic that deserves more recognition. Arnold Schwarzenegger's comedic performance as a dad on a quest for the elusive Turbo-Man toy is both hilarious and endearing, capturing the chaos of holiday shopping with a dose of action-packed absurdity. The film's mix of slapstick humor, festive spirit, and a heartfelt message about the true meaning of Christmas makes it a hidden gem in the holiday movie lineup.
Film Stills: Home Alone. The Muppet Christmas Carol, & Jingle All The Way
Credit: Twentieth Century Fox (Both Home Alone & Jingle All The Way) & Walt Disney Pictures
In the enchanting world of Charthouse Films' favorite Christmas movies, we've journeyed through the chaos of holiday shopping with Arnold Schwarzenegger in 'Jingle All the Way,' felt the whimsy of the Muppets in 'A Muppet Christmas Carol,' and embraced the timeless charm of classics like 'The Grinch,' 'A Christmas Story,' 'Christmas Vacation,' 'Elf,' 'Home Alone,' and the unexpected festive twist of 'Catch Me If You Can.' From laughter-inducing mishaps to heartwarming lessons, this eclectic selection embodies the magic and diversity of the holiday season, proving that each film brings its own unique joy to the festive celebration.
For The Love Of Movies,
Jonathan Austin
