A Definitive Ranking of the Best Christmas Films

by Honor Gillies

Welcome to your official and definitive ranking of the top 10 Christmas films. Of course, this is a personal opinion, and rubbish films often hit the spot after a cold and rainy day, but this list should convince you to snuggle up on the sofa tonight with a hot chocolate and watch a filmic festive masterpiece. 

10. Die Hard

Many don’t believe that ‘Die Hard’ is a Christmas film. Partially, I agree, but this makes it a perfect watch for when it’s early November, and certain family members express their dislike for watching a proper Christmas film. Therefore, this is one of those films that is perfect to get you into the festive spirit and will start a snowball rolling (pun intended) that leads to many more Christmas film marathons later in the months to follow…

09.  A Christmas Prince

This film is good, that’s why it’s in the top 10, but it follows the script of every Christmas rom-com, and most of the plot can be predicted from simply watching the first 10 minutes. However, all criticism aside, this film delivers beautiful castles and lots and lots of sparkly Christmas lights and decorations. Therefore, it serves as perfect inspiration for decorating your house and tree for the festive season, and it certainly creates a perfect romantic atmosphere to keep you happy in these dark, winter months. 

08. The Princess Switch

‘The Princess Switch’ is quite a unique Christmas film. For me, it places ninth in this list purely based on its sweet storyline. The main principles of the film are based around friendship (both old and new) - which is rare for a rom-com, as usually the ‘best-friend’ has a minor and superfluous role. In consequence, ‘The Princess Switch’ is perfect for watching with your friends in the lead-up to Christmas. 

07. Miracle on 34th Street

‘Miracle on 34th Street’ is more of a niche Christmas film. If you’re looking for a new (but old) film to watch, this 1994 one is perfect for you. Furthermore, it’ll certainly bring out your inner child, as the main protagonist is a firm believer in Santa, and the storyline centres around proving that a presumed Santa Claus actor in a store is actually the real thing. 

06. The Snowman

For many, me included, this film is the definition of a childhood Christmas film. The iconic soundtrack and animations have proved to be timeless since its 1982 release, and its timelessness comes from appealing to all generations, so your little cousin will love it just as much as your Grandma. This film ranks sixth on the list because of its traditional atmosphere and nostalgic emotions, and so is perfect for watching with your family, around the fire, and snacking on a box of Quality Streets.

05. The Grinch

Everyone knows how good this film is - and that’s why it’s in the top five. Jim Carrey’s iconic portrayal of a mean, green Grinch is hilarious, and perfect for a good laugh with your friends. Another redeeming feature is the massive stock of festive quotations this film provides - which makes it a timeless classic. 

04. Home Alone

‘Home Alone’ is another absolute belter. The half-adventure, half-comedic plot is tastefully accompanied by festive spirit and lots of Christmas decorations, and is sure to get the whole room laughing, especially if you have young relatives round. Furthermore, the sequel is just as good, and so these films are perfect for a festive film marathon in the lead-up to Christmas. 

03. It’s a Wonderful Life

This film is, arguably, an unusual pick for third place in this list. However, it delivers classic old-school Christmas charm and lovable characters, with a very sweet storyline of redemption and the importance of good friends. This film is in black-and-white, and will definitely be a hit with your older relatives. 

02. The Holiday

For me, this film is an all-time favourite. The story centres around four main characters and how their random meeting leads to a happy ending and romance for all involved. Partially set in urban America, and partially in rural England, this film appeals to everyone, particularly the heart-wrenching storyline that is the friendship between Iris and Arthur. 

01. Love Actually

And now for my number one Christmas film: ‘Love Actually’. This film is incredibly iconic, complicated, and invokes all the emotions we associate with the festive period (both happy and sad). It shows how different people feel and experience Christmas, and portrays a ‘normal’ festive period for many, with all the ups and downs included. For me, the winning factor in this film is the range of storylines: office romances at 10 Downing Street to primary school crushes and everything in between creates a sense of community at Christmas, and so is perfect for watching anywhere, and with anyone.