Christmas Movies

There are no shortage of Christmas movies, so in honor of Christmas being only 5 days away, I will be listing the best animated Christmas movies or TV specials.

A Charlie Brown Christmas
Anything by Peanuts is amazing, and this is certainly one of their best, and well-known, TV specials. There is just something charming about this movie, especially Linus's monologue, Snoopy's doghouse, and the infamous, small Christmas tree. It is defiantly heartwarming and a great film to watch with the whole family, even if Linus's monologue goes over the little ones' heads.

Frosty the Snowman
Another TV special, this one is almost exclusively for children, with its simplistic animation and overall childish qualities. But, that doesn't necessarily mean its bad. In fact, the simple, naive nature of the film is charming and endearing, and Frosty himself is a great, lovable character.

The Nightmare Before Christmas
Yes, this one counts. Despite being a very atypical fusion of Christmas and Halloween, this movie is very likable and charming, although not for all. Some may find the Halloween elements too freaky, and some may find the Christmas elements too joyous, but I think it is the perfect balance of the two. The characters, stop-motion, and especially the music make this one well worth your time. Now, if only you could decide when to watch it...

A Christmas Carol
A fairly new addition to the list, this movie has semi-likable characters and acting, and the story is as to be expected. Where this movie really shines is the animation. They use motion-capture technology to create an almost life-like rendition of Ebenezer Scrooge, and terrifying versions of the three ghosts (especially Christmas future). So, while this may be sub-par overall, its animation is absolutely fantastic.

The Polar Express
This movie uses the aforementioned motion capture animation, although it isn't as good as A Christmas Carol. Yet, this movie remains my favorite holiday movie to date. There is just something magical about this movie, with its decent plot and sense of mysticism that is not present in the others. This is largely in part to the fact that we never learn the main character's name. Also, the entire fact that the movie is about convincing a kid that Santa Claus exists leads to some magical, memorable, and endearing moments that make this one a definite rewatch each year.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Its hard to find a Christmas character (excluding Santa and Rudolph) that has made as much of an impact or has been as well-liked than the Grinch. And we aren't talking about the terrifying, nightmarish Jim Carrey Grinch (that still freaks me out). We're talking about the original, simple, animated Grinch; the one from the short animation that is endearing and influential to children.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
There is not a more nostalgic nor recognized animated Christmas movie than this one. It has stiff animation and a old feel to it, but those are just memorable, lovable qualities. Rudolph has been enchanting audiences for around half a century, with its adorable characters and simple, memorable plot. I know that this will continue to be a treasure part of any kid's childhood for years to come.