Gather 'round, folks, as I regale you with Entertainment Weekly's top five Christmas movies of all time. Grab your eggnog and let's dive into these festive flicks that have jingled our bells year after year.

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1. It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
At the top of the list is Frank Capra's classic, "It's a Wonderful Life." This heartwarming tale follows George Bailey, a man who, with a little angelic intervention, discovers the profound impact he's had on his community. It's the cinematic equivalent of a warm hug on a cold winter's night.


 

2. Elf (2003)
Next up is "Elf," where Will Ferrell dons yellow tights and a pointy hat as Buddy, a human raised by elves. His journey to New York City to find his biological father is filled with candy, chaos, and contagious Christmas cheer. It's a film that makes you believe in the magic of the holidays—and the importance of knowing your sugar intake limits.


 

3. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989)
In third place, we have "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation." Join Clark Griswold, the well-meaning family man whose holiday plans go hilariously awry. From over-the-top decorations to uninvited relatives, it's a comedic reminder that perfection is overrated—especially when it comes to Christmas lights.


 

4. A Christmas Story (1983)
Sliding into fourth is "A Christmas Story," chronicling young Ralphie's quest for a Red Ryder BB gun. Between leg lamps and triple-dog dares, it's a nostalgic trip to a time when a BB gun was the ultimate gift—and a major parental concern.


 

5. Love Actually (2003)
Rounding out the top five is "Love Actually," a tapestry of interwoven love stories set during the holiday season. From grand romantic gestures to awkward encounters, it captures the complexities of love—with a Christmas backdrop that makes even heartbreak seem a bit more festive.


 

So there you have it, the crème de la crème of Christmas cinema according to Entertainment Weekly. Whether you're in the mood for heartfelt lessons, belly laughs, or a sprinkle of romance, these films have got you covered this holiday season.

But, for me at my house, I’m calling it a tie for first place between White Christmas and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Bing Crosby crooning "White Christmas" is the definition of holiday magic, and let’s be real—Clark Griswold’s over-the-top antics are a mood. That’s my Christmas tradition, wrapped in lights and sprinkled with nostalgia. What's yours?

Ranking the Top Ten Movies I Watched In 2024

A lot of great films came out this year. Since 2024 is coming to a close, I wanted to look back at some of my favorite movies that I watched in theaters. Two of them did come out in 2023, but I didn't go check them out until 2024. Also, just a heads up, one of the movies premiered on Netflix so please don't come after me for that!

Gallery Credit: Kerri Mac