Your Christmas lights are twinkling, a warm mug of cocoa in hand, and you’re cozied up with family. The holiday season is a time for togetherness and connection, and you’ve just created the perfect setting to dive into a Christmas movie. But these films aren’t just for entertainment; they’re packed with timeless life lessons.
We’ve all been there—fighting over the remote with our family. This holiday season, to save you the hassle and keep the festive spirit alive, our readers have shared their favourite Christmas movies that deliver both joy and wisdom. From lessons on kindness to the true meaning of family, these films offer more than just holiday cheer.
So, sit back, relax, and let these Christmas classics inspire you while you enjoy quality time with your loved ones.
The Nightmare Before Christmas
What’s it about? Jack Skellington, the King of Halloween Town, inadvertently causes chaos when he tries to adopt Christmas for his own.
Why watch it? “The film uniquely blends dark, whimsical storytelling and imaginative visuals. The way it reimagines traditional holiday elements through the lens of Halloween Town is both fascinating and entertaining, while its stop-motion animation and Tim Burton’s signature style evoke a deep sense of wonder and nostalgia.”
What does it teach? “That the exploration of identity and self-acceptance is timeless, reminding us that sometimes the best things come from unexpected places, and even well-intentioned actions can have unintended consequences.”
~ Karun
Love Actually
… people come into your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime at any stage
What’s it about? A group of interconnected individuals navigate love, heartbreak, and relationships during the holiday season, showing that love takes many forms and can be found in unexpected places.
Why watch it? “I’m a romantic, and Love Actually gives me all the lovely feels of meeting someone special and the hope of finding love at any age. To be in love is truly magical.
As J.R.R Tolkien beautifully puts it, ‘I would rather spend one lifetime with you than face all the ages of this world alone.”
What does it teach? “I always thought love could only be found in your 20s, but Love Actually reminded me that you can find love at any age. It shows that people come into your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime at any stage. It taught me to stay hopeful and open-minded, showing that there is no one way of doing things. Every day is an adventure and an opportunity to design your life in a new direction.”
~ Stacey
Jingle All the Way
What’s it about? Workaholic father Howard Langston embarks on a chaotic, last-minute quest to purchase the popular Turbo Man action figure for his son.
Why watch it? “This film brings back lots of memories, and I remember my family having to rent a videotape to watch it. Arnold Schwarzenegger (The Terminator) was the leading actor, and his role as Turbo Man was like Iron Man before Iron Man even existed.”
What does it teach? “It was a comedy about the hunt for an action figure toy, with Arnold eventually becoming the hero himself. Filled with funny, heartfelt moments, it’s also a reminder not to neglect your loved ones.”
~ Jacob
Die Hard
What’s it about? Off-duty NYPD officer, John McClane, battles terrorists who take hostages in a Los Angeles skyscraper during a Christmas party.
Why watch it? “I like Die Hard because it combines plenty of funny moments with enough action to keep you entertained. It’s the quintessential American Christmas movie, blending festive cheer with, of course, danger and destruction.”
What does it teach? “From the movie, I learned that you should never step outside barefoot and that perhaps the greatest gift in life is simply being able to survive it — because who knows what might happen! Also, don’t underestimate people based on appearances. Man may have seemed ordinary, but he was smart, and no one suspected he was a cop!”
~ Oliver
Creed II
…no matter the struggle or sacrifice, the love and support of our friends and family are the greatest victories of all
What’s it about? Heavyweight champion Adonis Creed faces the biggest challenge of his life as he prepares to face Viktor Drago, the son of the boxer who killed his father.
Why watch it? “Creed II is a film about perseverance, mental fortitude, and the willpower to push forward, even as every fiber of your being is screaming from exertion. At its core, it’s about how our family and friends are our greatest source of strength, and well worth fighting for — literally!”
What does it teach? “The theme of reconciliation and the lasting power of familial bonds resonate strongly throughout the film, with Adonis Creed’s wife Bianca supporting him wholeheartedly despite her fear of him getting hurt in the sport and Rocky’s unwavering dedication to him as a coach. Viktor also realises that no amount of fame or revenge is worth risking the relationship with his son.
Ultimately, Creed II reminds us that, no matter the struggle or sacrifice, the love and support of our friends and family are the greatest victories of all.”
~ Xi Kai
Hi Noel
What’s it about? With his parents headed towards a divorce, Leon creates an imaginary friend named Noel and they try to save his parents’ marriage.
Why watch it? “Probably the first-ever local Movie Gala Premiere that features a kindness auction! Director Eric Wong decided to auction the painting featured in the movie to support the Singapore Kindness Movement. Titled “For Forever” painted by Artiste Jamie Teo, it captures a magical family moment in the movie. You can catch ‘Hi Noel’ in cinemas from 28 November and join in spreading some kindness this festive season!”
What does it teach? “Children, above all, simply want to be happy, no matter where they are, and families play a crucial role in making that possible.”
~ Michelle
As the holiday season brings us closer to our loved ones, we hope this list of Christmas movie recommendations adds a touch of warmth, laughter, and festive cheer to your celebrations. Just remember—it’s not about the movies you watch, but the time spent with your loved ones.
To our dear readers,
Here’s to wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas!
What are your go-to Christmas movies? Let us know!