With only two weeks to go until winter break, the holiday festivities are nearly in full swing. If you’re looking for some holiday movies to put on while you decorate the tree, look no further–here is a sampling of some of the Panthers’ all time favorites.

Honorable Mentions

A few titles definitively came out on top when it comes to popularity, but we shan’t forget some of the hidden gems. Though these two didn’t make the top contenders, if you’re looking for a Christmas classic, It’s A Wonderful Life and Miracle on 34th Street have stood the test of time. 

When it comes to puppets, stop-motion, and animation, some students’ favorites include A Year Without Santa Claus with the memorable Snow Miser and Heat Miser, 2018’s The Grinch starring Benedict Cumberbatch, and The Nightmare Before Christmas, a controversial pick due to the ongoing debate over whether the Tim Burton cult classic constitutes a Christmas movie or a Halloween movie. When it comes to expert opinions though, the Point Press’s very own Mrs. Jensen is partial to 1992’s A Muppet Christmas Carol, a brilliant pick.

Some other honorable mentions include the hilarious Christmas with the Kranks starring Tim Allen and Jamie Lee Curtis, and everyone’s dad’s favorite, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. 

5. A Christmas Story & How The Grinch Stole Christmas

These two are tied for fifth place, according to a student poll. A Christmas Story is full of memorable scenes, including the cringeworthy tongue-frozen-to-the-pole, “You’ll shoot your eye out!”, and Ralphie’s pink bunny suit. How The Grinch Stole Christmas is a heartwarming classic. Though it’s short and sweet at only 26 minutes long, its colorful animation, groovy theme song, and touching ending make it so unforgettable.

4. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

My personal favorite, this 1964 stop motion flick following the trials and tribulations of the only reindeer whose nose glows red is just adorable, and has a compelling plot. Though it may seem like a silly children’s movie at first glance, Rudolph has a story that has resonated with misfits and underdogs for decades, and the found family trope is heartwarming, not to mention the catchy songs.

3. The Polar Express

Despite the slightly unsettling animation, hop aboard the nostalgia train as this movie brings back fond memories for many of us: the day before Christmas break in elementary school, sitting criss-cross-applesauce on the floor, sipping hot chocolate and watching The Polar Express on the projector. And who can forget Tom Hanks as the train conductor singing “Hot Chocolate”?

2. Home Alone

It’s no surprise that this movie nears the top of the list, Macaulay Culkin as Kevin McCallister giving burglars Harry and Marv a run for their money is hilarious and legendary. Home Alone is a yearly watch for many, it’s as funny as it is poignant. Keep the change, ya filthy animal!

1. Elf

You guessed it: Will Ferrel’s hilarious portrayal as the lovable goofball Buddy the Elf as he navigates New York City guarantees Elf’s spot at the top of our school’s favorite movie. Not only is this movie a must-watch every year, but this year it also happens to be Point Pleasant Boro High School’s winter play, running from December 8th to December 11th. Congratulations to the cast on a successful show!