Top 10 Most Underappreciated Christmas Movies
#10: “Ernest Saves Christmas” (1988)
If “Home Alone” is anything to go by, slapstick is a recipe for success when it comes to Christmas family films. While nineties comedy was dominated by the likes of Jim Carrey and Robin Williams, Jim Varney’s Ernest is fondly remembered by eighties kids. The character was originally conceived by an advertising company, but the funny man struck a chord with viewers. He was soon starring in his own movies. In “Ernest Saves Christmas” the eponymous hero has a job as a cab driver, where he meets Santa Claus. What follows is a madcap caper with heart that’s as good-natured as it is goofy. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgia trip or just a few laughs, Ernest’s holiday adventure is a good place to start.
#9: “Mrs. Santa Claus” (1996)
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There’s something very Christmas-y about made-for-TV musicals, and this one is a festive treat. Starring the late Angela Lansbury, it follows Santa’s wife, who finds herself stuck in New York. There, a Jewish family takes her in, and she begins embracing local politics. The film is a period piece, a whimsical fantasy, and an all-around delight. Okay, so, it’s also kind of corny, but that’s what we like to see in our holiday movies. It’s not all sweetness and light either - during her brief tenure in the city, our heroine fights for women and childrens’ rights! With an Emmy nominated song from “Hello, Dolly!” composer Jerry Herman and a certified star to sell it, “Mrs. Santa Claus” is well worth a watch.
#8: “The Family Man” (2000)
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Nicolas Cage might not seem like the obvious choice for the romantic lead in a wholesome yuletide fable - but he’s actually pretty convincing here. Cage plays Jack, a single Wall Street guy who wakes up one Christmas morning to find himself a family man. In a twist on “A Christmas Carol,” the money-bags businessman is forced to look back at his life and see what would have been had he made different decisions. It’s a romantic and unashamedly sentimental tale, but it’s also surprisingly hard-hitting. The moral message of valuing love over money is a bit on the nose, but the heartfelt storytelling and strong central performances are not to be sniffed at.
#7: “Prancer” (1989)
“Prancer” may look like a whimsical fairytale, but there’s more to this family adventure than meets the eye. The story follows a little girl who stumbles across a wounded reindeer on her dad’s farm. She attempts to help him in time for Christmas Eve, believing the creature to be part of Santa’s sleigh team. Sam Elliott brings his usual charm and sensitivity to the down-on-his-luck dad, but the real star here is young Rebecca Harrell as protagonist Jessica. Harrell’s skillful, confident performance ensures that the movie never feels too downbeat, even during its more serious moments. Throw in some gorgeous winter scenery and you’re left with a funny and moving film full of Christmas spirit.
#6: “Annabelle's Wish” (1997)
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Keeping with the animal theme, who remembers this sweet story about a cow who wants to be a reindeer? “Annabelle’s Wish” went straight to video back in 1997, but we think one critic’s complimentary view of its “gentle message of selfless love” is spot on. Naturally, young audiences were enraptured. Annabelle herself is a lovable protagonist and Steve Dorff’s score sets the tone nicely. Country music stars including Dolly Parton contributed to the soundtrack, adding to the movie’s folksy American charm. The animated adventure goes deeper than you might expect, covering a bitter custody battle and the loss of a loved one. However, Randy Travis’s calming narration and the overrunning theme of friendship mark the movie out as feel-good family fare.
#5: “The Man Who Invented Christmas” (2017)
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We all know the story of “A Christmas Carol,” but what about the man who put it down on paper? “The Man Who Invented Christmas” stars Dan Stevens as a young Charles Dickens. It follows the author’s creative process during the writing of his beloved seasonal masterpiece. The celebrated writer has been credited with revolutionizing the way the Western world does Christmas, and this film gives us a sense of that. However, the movie does take some liberties with the facts, giving the story a twist and tying it into the author’s journey of self-discovery. The result is an atmospheric period drama with a fantastic cast, including Jonathan Pryce, Miriam Margolyes and Christopher Plummer as the cantankerous Scrooge.
#4: “A Christmas Carol” (2009)
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Of all the “Christmas Carol” retellings, it’s safe to say that the Muppets did it best. Still, there are some great alternatives out there and every adaptation brings something new to the table. 2009’s animated Jim Carrey vehicle is one of the closest to the original novella, incorporating Scrooge’s oft-forgotten sister Fan and his encounter with the specters of “Ignorance” and “Want.” Carrey and Gary Oldman each master multiple voice acting parts, with Colin Firth, Bob Hoskins and Cary Elwes taking on supporting roles. As if that wasn’t enough, “A Christmas Carol” also uses motion capture technology for its CGI. This allows Carey’s famous facial expressions to work their comedy magic. It’s an ambitious, stylish movie, and a worthwhile addition to the canon.
#3: Arthur Christmas” (2011)
It can take a while for seasonal movies to find a firm foothold in the hearts of the public, but “Arthur Christmas” is fast on its way to becoming a classic. When Santa’s likable offspring - the eponymous Arthur - discovers that a single gift has not been taken to its destination, he sets out on a journey to right the wrong. After all, no kid should have to feel that kind of disappointment! By putting a new spin on the Father Christmas legend, the creative team have crafted a family movie that feels exciting, while retaining a timeless Christmassy quality. It’s a lot of fun as well, with a lot to make the grown ups laugh alongside the kids.
#2: “White Christmas” (1954)
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If you’re well versed in Christmas trivia you’ll know that “White Christmas” - the familiar seasonal standard - actually first appeared in “Holiday Inn,” the 1942 movie. Nevertheless, “White Christmas” the film deserves to be equally celebrated. There’s dancing, singing, and holiday cheer aplenty. The script is warm and witty and Irving Berlin’s songs are a treat - especially when there are such talented vocalists bringing them to life. The central foursome, portrayed by Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen, have great chemistry, playing off each other wonderfully and keeping the laughs coming. From the beautiful costumes to the moving finale, this Christmas classic shouldn’t be overlooked. Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions. “Last Christmas” (2019) A Cute Rom-Com Showcasing Emilia Clarke & Henry Golding’s Talents “Tom and Jerry: A Nutcracker Tale” (2007) You Can’t Go Wrong with This Classic Cat & Mouse Cartoon “A Christmas Visitor” (2002) A Made-for-TV Movie with Charm & Heart “The House Without a Christmas Tree” (1972) This Low-Budget Movie Touched Audiences & Its Writer Even Won an Emmy “Christmas in Connecticut” (1945) An Overlooked Classic Starring Barbara Stanwyck
#1: “Klaus” (2019)
With gorgeous animation, an impressive voice cast, and well-crafted, interesting characters, “Klaus” was a hit with critics and audiences alike. Though the 2020 Best Animated Feature Oscar went to “Toy Story 4,” this release was a real contender! With repeated holiday viewings, we think it’s destined to become a family Christmas staple. The movie offers up a new story surrounding Santa Claus’ birth, set in the 1800s and involving a mailman and an introverted craftsman. The smart, original screenplay does the concept justice and the vocal talent brings warmth and sparkle. Plus, the old-school animation has a nostalgic quality to it, while improved technology lets the traditional hand-drawn style shine. If you’re looking for a new festive favorite, this could be it.
