December, being the month Christmas falls into, has many holiday movies. Even the old black-and-white movies are classic and entertaining. But there are a few films that many may be familiar with but still need more recognition.
Though the movie “Spirited” was only released a year ago, many think it will go on to be a classic. It is a modern take on the famous “A Christmas Carol’ story. The Ghost of Christmas Present finds himself attempting to redeem someone considered “unredeemable.” Along the way, he wonders if he was ever truly redeemed himself and if being The Ghost of Christmas Present is really what he wants. The film was directed by Sean Anders and was released by Apple TV+ with a 6.6/10 on IMDb.
An older film, which was released in the 70’s, is “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town.” The film is short but sweet and follows an orphan who was taken in by a family of toymakers. When he is grown, he makes it his mission to provide toys for all the children in a town that does not allow them. The film is 51 minutes long and was made with stop-motion animation.
It was directed by Arthur Rankin, Jr. and Jules Bass and distributed by ABC with a 7.7/10 rating on IMDb.
“The Christmas Chronicles” was released in 2018 and was a hit for Netflix. It stars Kurt Russell as Santa Claus and follows him trying to save Christmas after a brother and sister attempt to catch him on camera. When they follow Santa into his sleigh and accidentally startle him, they are transported miles away from their home and have no way to get back until they find the sack of toys. Together they battle obstacles such as police, gangs, and jail to save Christmas. The film was directed by Clay Kaytis and has a 7/10 rating on IMDb.
Finally, “Christmas with the Kranks” is turning into a classic for many. The film is a heart-touching story of a Christmas-obsessed couple whose daughter (Blair) left to join the Peace Corps. When they think she will not be back for Christmas, they book a cruise over the holiday. But their daughter calls to tell them she is coming home and bringing her new boyfriend. Even after all the backlash from their neighbors, they all pitch in to throw Blair the perfect Christmas party. It was directed by Joe Roth and has a 5.4/10 on IMDb.
