Christmas movies are as much a part of our Christmas traditions as eggnog and lighting the tree. The best Christmas films hold up year after year. Animated movies have the ability to stand up over the years. They are the movies we remember watching on Thanksgiving and Christmas break in anticipation for the big day. As we get older, the same movies take on new meaning as we understand the underlying sentiment in our favorite films. Here is our list of animated Christmas movies that remind of us the wonder of childhood, and promises to do the same for our kids.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966)- This 1966 animated film is the only version that captures the sweetness, bite and heart of the classic Dr. Seuss book. Hateful and bitter, a grumpy hermit hatches a plan to steal Christmas from the Whos of Whoville. Disguised as Santa, the Grinch descends on the village to snatch all their Christmas baubles and gifts. The Grinch is tragic and funny and eventually heartwarming as the true meaning of Christmas is artfully revealed. This is possibly the perfect holiday movie.
Frosty the Snowman (1969)- Frosty the Snowman is another timeless holiday special that stands the test of time. Based on the popular song of the same name, a living snowman and a young girl fight to escape a nasty magician, who is after snowman’s magic hat. Experience the awe of the first snowfall, and the power of kindness and friendship. You may shed a tear but in the nick of time Santa Claus saves the day.
Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964) – This has to be the most adorable claymation movies ever made. Sam the snowman narrates a story about a young misfit reindeer who teams up with a few memorable characters for an unexpected adventure. Burl Ives’ friendly, warm singing voice as the snowman holds it all together. Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer remains the king of all Christmas specials.
A Charlie Browns Christmas (1965)- Though the animation is crude, there is something very powerful at the heart of A Charlie Brown Christmas that restores faith. When an earnest Charlie Brown complains about the materialism he sees during the Christmas season, Lucy suggests he direct the School pageant. It proves to be a frustrating endeavor. Linus helps him learn the true meaning of Christmas with an amazing speech that still resonates today.
Polar Express (2004)- Based on the beautifully illustrated picture book, this IMAX film makes the best Christmas movie list for its ability to inspire young and old. The story is of a young boy on Christmas Eve who boards a magical train bound for the North Pole. During the ride the young hero embarks on a voyage of self-discovery. The entire look of the film is visually stunning in the vein of the original illustrations. It leaves you breathless and teaches us to believe in the wonder of life.
Even if you don’t have a favorite, just getting your whole family together and watching one of these classics (or a NEW classic) will create memories that will last a lifetime, and maybe even a new family tradition, for generations to come.
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