The holiday season is here — so take a time-out from the hustle and bustle and unwind with my favorite Christmas classics. Unforgettable stories of hope and love, they remind us of what the season is truly about.
1. Remember the Night (1940)
Spend the night with an unlikely pair — pretty shoplifter Lee (Barbara Stanwyck) and her sentimentally sweet prosecutor John (Fred MacMurray). When John can’t arrange a trial date for Lee near the holidays, he takes her home to spend Christmas with his family. A forgotten gem in the collection of classics, Remember the Nightis a heartwarming story about enjoying the simple pleasures in life: time with loved ones.
2. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
Take an enlightening journey with George Bailey (James Stewart), a man who loses sight about what life is all about. After he wishes he had never been born, an angel arrives on Earth. Through flashbacks, he shows George just how many lives he has touched. Powerful and profound, It’s a Wonderful Life is a comprehensive masterpiece that encourages you to live gratefully every day.
3. Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
Experience the magic of New York City at Christmas time. Department-store Santa, Kris Kringle (Edmund Gwenn), teaches a little girl (Natalie Wood) to have faith, even when told not to believe in Santa by her no-nonsense mother (Maureen O’Hara). After Kris is put on trial for claiming to be Santa, he proves to a world of nonbelievers who he truly is. Tender and touching, Miracle on 34th Streetwill remind you you’re never too old to believe.
4. The Bishop’s Wife (1947)
You’ll be touched by Dudley (Cary Grant), an angel who brings subtle joys to his spiritual holiday duties. While guiding a bishop to raise money for a new cathedral, Dudley sweeps the town off its feet, including the bishop’s wife. A charming film about one’s capacity to influence others, The Bishop’s Wife is an allegorical holiday staple about the importance of giving back.
5. White Christmas (1954)
Head up to a cozy ski lodge in Vermont with successful song-and-dance duo Wallace and Davis (Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye). After they pick up a performing sister act (Rosemary Clooney and Vera Ellen) in their travels, together they try to save an old friend’s failing inn. They’ll show you the true meaning of Christmas, while entertaining you every step of the way in White Christmas.
So light your tree, grab some cookies and cozy up on the couch with one or all of my Christmas picks. They’re guaranteed to bring you some holiday cheer this season.
What’s your favorite Christmas classic? I’d love to know. Share your choice in the comment section below.
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