With the holiday break on the horizon, Anchor News decided our last article of the calendar year should examine required movie watching over the impending blizzard.  We hope you enjoy our picks and that everybody at CHS has a happy and safe vacation!!

Marissa - Krampus

My favorite holiday movie is “Krampus” - specifically the 2015 version. 

 

The best thing about the movie is that the editing is very good. They have the right balance between real people and creepy crawlies, be they green-screened in or practical effects. Creators paid attention to every little detail and that's what makes it great.

 

Another great thing was the acting. The child actors really bring their A-game, having just enough trauma in their eyes to sell you on their exchange with the titular creature. As for the adults, they also pack a dramatic punch. They know how to really make the movie come alive and make it look like everything is real. 

 

The last best thing about the movie is the plot. The krampus, known for taking bad children away for an eternity of suffering, is after them and trying to ruin their Christmas. Some may think that is not the Christmas spirit, but, personally, I love it. I love the gore that they put in the movie. It is not too much, but it is certainly not tame, either. It is just the right amount. 

 

Overall, it is a very good movie and will forever be my favorite. It gives holiday movies a little twist and gore that is missing from this time of “peace on Earth” and that nonsense. “Krampus” truly gives new meaning to the phrase, “Be good, for goodness sake!”

 

Carla - Frosty the Snowman

What’s a better holiday movie than one of the classics? Nothing. 

 

“Frosty the Snowman” depicts all of the qualities of the holidays that fill its viewers with cheer and reminds them of home. Frosty represents the magic of the season, the value of friendship and what could happen if you just believe. 

 

In the beginning of the movie, an evil magician is putting his magic on display for some school kids. As his act isn’t very good, he throws out his hat in a tantrum. When class is dismissed, the kids go outside to create wonders of life in the snow. A group of friends build a snowman and place the abandoned hat on its head and name him Frosty. To the children’s surprise (and by the magic of Christmas spirit), Frosty comes to life and he and the kids sing a catchy and quite iconic song. 

 

Through the course of the movie, the evil magician tries to take the hat back to take advantage of its magical capabilities while Karen, one of the kids that created Frosty, tries to take the titular snowman to the north pole so he won’t melt. Frosty and Karen build an incredible bond and become great friends. With the help of Santa Claus and a bunny named Hocus Pocus, Karen is able to get back home and Frosty gets back to the North Pole. Frosty visits Karen and the children every Christmas and returns to the North Pole once the weather gets warmer. 

 

Overall, “Frosty the Snowman” is the movie that shows the real meaning of friendship and how magical the holiday season can be. It is an expression of all the sentimentality of our childhoods and the warm, fuzzy feelings that a great movie can provide.

 

Evan - Die Hard

The best, most unconventional holiday movie took place on a tower in LA.

 

When people think of holiday movies, they often think of movies such as “Elf” or “A Christmas Carol.” However, many people would agree that “Die Hard” is one of, if not the greatest holiday film that has ever been made. 

 

Many people question the authenticity of “Die Hard” being a Christmas movie.  However, director and former federal prison inmate John McTiernan stated, “We hadn't intended it to be a Christmas movie, but the joy that came from it is what turned it into a Christmas movie.” 

 

So, with the legitimacy of “Die Hard” being a Christmas movie no longer in question, it is the well-developed characters that many people have grown to love that make the film as critically acclaimed as it is today. “Die Hard” wouldn’t be what it is without Bruce Willis playing protagonist John McLane, the reluctant hero and barefoot cop who saves his ex-wife’s Christmas party from European terrorists. 

 

All in all, “Die Hard” is THE best holiday films. With its well developed characters, action-packed story, and deep holiday roots, there’s no reason to leave this movie off any list of required holiday screenings.

 

Camila - The Nightmare Before Christmas

I’m not a big fan of holiday movies. Most of them always have the same old, cringy, cliche story. They have unrealistic storylines and cheery happy endings that somehow always work out due to the “spirit” of Christmas. However, there is one movie that contains a different type of feel to Christmas that I’m willing to settle down and watch, and that is “The Nightmare Before Christmas.”

 

This movie is unusual and has a spooky, Halloween feel to it. The movie was produced by Tim Burton, a director who is well known for creating all types of spooky content. The movie’s story starts off in Halloween Town where all the characters live alongside the main character, Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King. In Halloween Town, Jack is the one who is responsible for planning and creating new ideas for the upcoming Halloween. This time though, he decides to try something new, he makes it his goal to take over Christmas and make himself the new man in charge of this cheery holiday.

 

There are numerous songs with intricate lyrics and moving instrumental music that pulls the whole film together. Two of my favorite songs are, “This is Halloween” and “What’s This?” These songs match well with setting and really envision the Halloween spirit. Besides the eerie and haunting catchy songs, another thing I really enjoy about the movie is how all the characters were sculpted from clay. Instead of using regular animation, “The Nightmare Before Christmas” was created through stop motion animation. They had hundreds of different types of sets made with hidden parts where animators could have easier access to moving the characters. 

 

All in all, this year, instead of watching the regular old classic Christmas movies, how about trying out my favorite spooky filled movie, “The Nightmare Before Christmas.”

 

Brenna W. - Polar Express

It's that time of year again where Mariah Carrey decks the halls with her over-the-top Christmas songs. 

 

Many people have a difficult time picking which movie they would like to watch after finally getting to take a break from being on their feet all day, and I'm here to help you pick the perfect Christmas movie. The movie I am vouching for as the best Christmas movie is “The Polar Express.”

 

Why, you may ask? Well, let's look at the facts. “The Polar Express” is a widely known Christmas movie. Many kids grew up watching it during the Christmas season, and their parents grew up reading the book. Teachers would play it on the box TV while passing out a half empty coffee filter filled with unseasoned popcorn and low fat M&M's. Does this ring a bell, or perhaps bring back some nostalgic feelings? 

 

Speaking of nostalgia, let's talk about the soundtrack in “The Polar Express.” Everyone who has watched it knows the most, if not all of the soundtrack by heart. The soundtrack feels like Christmas excitement as a child, waking up and hoping it snowed for break. Smelling the chocolate chip pancakes your mom made while your dad is taunting you with your presents. For these reasons and more, "The Polar Express" is the most grand, most comforting Holiday movie of all time. 

 

Brenna Q. - ELF

Is it Christmas time and you have no spirit? Well, I have the movie for you! You can gather some family friends or even just yourself, grab some popcorn, sit on the couch, and have an enjoyable night watching this Will Ferrell classic to raise your Christmas spirit.

 

Bottom line - “Elf” is a great movie. It’s family-friendly, so everyone in the family can enjoy it! The film has heart-warming moments like Buddy the Elf leaving the North Pole to find his real family and explore the new world. Not only does the movie boast a fun adventure, but it’s a barrel of laughs as well! 

 

The movie focuses on many typical holiday themes. When Buddy first leaves the North Pole he has no idea what he is about to face walking into a brand new life. He is determined to find his old family whom he was separated from when he was younger. He finds the love of his life in a holiday toy store. He also is on a mission to get his father to accept him into the family and raise the Christmas spirit to get Santa Clause back to the North Pole.

 

Perhaps the most important lesson to take away from “Elf” is to do what you love and enjoy. Buddy tries many new things, and he discovers new joys at every turn. He never wants to give up, and keeps going through all the people's judgment.

 

Admittedly, I felt like I was losing my Christmas spirit, but after watching this cinematic masterpiece of a movie, I was moved and never felt more pleased with a movie. I recommend “Elf” because it is a heartwarming movie that brings up people’s Christmas spirit and makes them believe in the Christmas magic.

 

Carys - A Muppet Christmas Carol
Bah Humbug! That is what I say to all the other movies on this list. Who doesn't enjoy classic holiday movies during the winter season? I know I do! Not only do the classics warm me up, but the remakes of these movies do too. I feel this way about the fabulous “The Muppet Christmas Carol.”

 

This movie is an enjoyable retelling of “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens. The story follows Ebenezer Scrooge (Michael Caine) and his adventures with visits from the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come. Just like the original tale, Scrooge is an old grump who hates the Christmas season, but with the help of these ghosts, learns to love.

 

Now, unlike the original story, “Muppet Christmas Carol” does not feature an all human cast. If you're a fan of the popular, classic Muppet characters, you can see them in this retelling. Kermit the Frog plays Scrooge’s clerk Bob Crachit with perennial love interest Miss Piggy playing Bob’s wife, Emily. In a similar manner, the cutely crippled and Bob and Emily’s son, Tiny Tim is portrayed by Kermit’s nephew, Robin the Frog. Scrooge’s old law firm partner Robert Marley is adapted to be played by two Muppets in this version. Statler and Waldorf do an excellent job in being the brothers Jacob and Robert Marley. There are so many other characters to enjoy in this movie, so I will not spoil it all!

 

This movie is extraordinary in so many ways. For one, the musical selections are amazing. There are so many songs that help guide the story along to give viewers the classic muppet sing-alongs. As well, the scenery and the assets also give the story a great kick. 

 

All in all, the “Muppet Christmas Carol” is the best holiday movie ever. The music, the script, and the puppetry completely ties together the story to create the perfect adaptation of the Charles Dickens novel. If you haven’t seen this movie, you have not lived!

 

Raquel - Barbie in the Nutcracker 

When I think about the holiday season, the first thing that comes to mind is the classic ballet, “The Nutcracker.” For those who have not had the joy of seeing this live show, the heavens have provided us with a newer spin on this well-known classic called “Barbie in the Nutcracker.” 

 

This amusing animated treasure tells the story of Clara who receives a toy Nutcracker for Christmas. The Nutcracker comes to life and they are attacked by the evil mouse king who shrinks Clara to his size. She must travel to the Nutcracker's land to find the Sugar Plum Princess and return home. This is an enchanting tale about bravery, selflessness and self-realization has all of the classic components of “The Nutcracker” ballet with a few twists. 

 

“Barbie in the Nutcracker” was the first Barbie movie ever made, so you know it's the best one. Released on October 2, 2001, and the graphics are simply amazing for their time - especially the ballet scenes. My favorite character and also the best character is Pimm, the Mouse King’s right-hand man. He is just the cutest animated bat that there ever was. 

 

Sure they are other holiday movies out there; in fact, there are millions. Millions of carbon copies with the same plot and the same characters. Sure, “Barbie in the Nutcracker” may be a remake but it is a colorful cinematic creation that conquers all other holiday movies. 

 

Olivya - The Peanuts Movie

It is that time of year when everyone gets into the holiday spirit of drinking hot chocolate and binge-watching Christmas movies. Whether that is from Hallmark to your good ole Snoopy specials, these 90-minute adventures are some of the most enjoyable portions of any celebration.  My favorite movie is a new take on the Snoopy classics, “The Peanuts Movie.” 

 

“The Peanuts Movie” is not like every other Christmas movie, even including “Charlie Brown Christmas.” The lesson in this movie is to show the viewers how friendships are supposed to be. As most Charlie Brown and Snoopy lovers know, they are built-in best friends. THEY ARE the definition of friendship. 

 

UH OH! There is a little red-headed girl that just moved in next door and her name is Heather Wold. Charlie Brown notices her from over the fence and develops a crush on her. He goes against the odds and tries to accomplish every little thing so that he can win Heather’s heart. Well, there is a winter dance coming up and this would be the perfect opportunity for Charlie Brown to ask Heather to the dance. In the meantime, Charlie Brown spends a little time pitching a baseball, practicing so he can perform at the dance, writing a novel, entering a talent show and so much more. All the while, Snoopy has been a supportive best friend to Charlie Brown, helping him with his dance steps and pushing Charlie Brown to ask her to dance. 

 

Meanwhile, Snoopy has been living in a fantasy world where he has been having battles with his long time foe, the Red Baron. Unfortunately, the baron and Snoopy share a crush, Fifi. Snoopy ends up fighting for his life to save Fifi from his nemesis. After much dedication, Snoopy finally defeats the red baron and gets Fifi back. Similarly to Charlie Brown and Heather, Snoopy is also pursuing love for the pink poodle.

In the end, Snoopy is still living in his fantasy world with his pink poodle girl Fifi. After many long months of trying to win Heather’s heart, Charlie Brown is surprised that she picks him as a pen pal before the summer break. 

 

All in all, if you have not already done so, go enjoy a nice cup of hot chocolate and start your Snoopy spree. Merry Christmas!

 

Nyah - Gremlins

I think we all have a holiday movie that we consider the best. While there are the obvious choices, let's talk a little bit about the not-so-obvious choices that not only go underrated, but deserve some love and attention just as much as any other sappy Christmas movie. 

 

The 1984 “Gremlins” directed by Steven Spielberg is commonly overlooked as a chart topper when it comes to holiday movies. In “Gremlins,” Billy Peltzer (Zach Galligan) gets a really unique gift from his parents for Christmas; a new pet. The thing is, that this pet is not your average walk, feed, and play with pet. No.  This pet has some catches. 

 

The first catch is that you can’t expose it to light. The second is that if you get it wet, it will multiply. Finally, the third catch is that you cannot UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES let it eat after midnight; if you do, it will change. While it sounds easy enough to follow, Billy did everything he wasn’t supposed to do. 

 

Even though some people might not consider this a top tier Christmas movie, I think it is definitely a chart topper and should really be on your nice list this year. It is a movie that will make you say “aww” and jump out of your Christmas sweaters in the same scene. It is an amazing holiday movie to watch with your family, especially if you want to get your emotional stocking in a twist. 

 

Virginia - How the Grinch Stole Christmas

You would think everyone loves the idea of Christmas. With the presents, time with family, the food and the time off of school, it's kind of a no brainer. The one person, or should I say cat-like creature, who doesn't like Christmas is the Grinch. Nothing brings more joy to even the Grinch-iest of Grinches than the live action “How The Grinch Stole Christmas” starring Jim Carry.

 

“Grinch” was emotionally scarred at a young age when his classmates made fun of the gift he got for his elementary crush, Martha May. This event led him to isolate himself and never try to like Christmas again. Eventually, he came up with a wonderfully terrible idea to steal Christmas. He got his dog-helper, Max, to dress up as one of Santa’s reindeer, built his own sleigh, and set off to steal the Who’s Christmas. 

 

While in the middle of being a Christmas burglar, he got caught by a young Cindy Lou Who. He pretends to not be the Grinch and gets away with it, but learns that Cindy Lou is waiting for who she thinks is Santa so she can tell him to give the Grinch a chance. Towards the end of the movie, the Grinch found shoes that were not too small, screwed his head on just right, and his heart grew three times the size.

 

All in all, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” is the best holiday movie because of its quick-wit and story about how someone can change even after being grouchy his whole life. This movie will always be a classic that is mandatory to watch every Christmas season.

 

Addi - The Santa Claus

During the Christmas season, some of the best movies involve the classic Santa Claus. This movie, though, involves a twist on the whole Santa Claus concept. One of my favorite movies of the Christmas season is “The Santa Claus” starring Tim Allen.

 

Made by Disney, “Santa Claus” is the story of how a basic businessman from New York named Scott Calvin (Allen), finds himself in Santa's position. One night, he gets woken by his son Charlie and he complains about hearing something on the roof. As Scott goes outside, he sees a man on the roof walking around - but it’s just not any man. After startling Santa, Claus falls from the roof, onto the floor and disappears, leaving only his suit on the ground. Scott picks up the suit and puts it on. As Charlie climbs onto the roof, Scott follows him up, saying to get down, only to find himself in the sleigh led by reindeer. The sleigh travels back to the North Pole after he delivers a few gifts, not having any idea what he is doing. When he arrives at the North Pole, he is greeted by elves and told he is Santa Claus. He refuses and returns home, but soon later realizes that he must be Santa, slowly gaining the weight, the beard, and the personality. He soon accepts this job and lives like Santa Claus and delivers presents.

 

“The Santa Claus” is a great holiday movie and not only tells the story of Santa Claus in a different way, but it also involves family, love, and daily struggles. It is a great movie for all ages and if you enjoy the first one, there is a movie two, and three, and they just released a new series called “The Santa Clauses”! All these can be watched and enjoyed on Disney+. 

 

The holidays are a great time to watch Christmas movies of all kinds and “The Santa Claus” movie is a tremendous one to start the season with! 

 

Lexi - Home Alone

What’s better than traveling for the holidays with your family? Being left behind while the rest of your family goes on vacation, of course! The movie “Home Alone” captures what it’s like traveling over the holidays perfectly with a little twist.

 

In this hilarious film with Macaulay Culkin as Kevin McCallister, that’s exactly what happens. When you throw robbers, creepy neighbors and worried parents into the mix, it makes for a wonderful holiday season movie to watch with your family, friends or even by yourself. 

 

Kevin struggles with trying to fit in with his family as he doesn’t feel noticed or appreciated. He wishes that his family would just disappear. We can learn from him in this movie to be careful what we wish for. It might just come true. 

 

The whole movie is filled with laughs, as we see Kevin pranking “The Wet Bandits” Harry Lime (Joe Pesci) and Marv Murchins (Daniel Stern) all the while Kevin’s mother, Kate McCallister (Catherine O’Hara) is worrying like crazy and doing everything she can to get back to her forgotten child.

 

All in all, this fun filled holiday movie is a great one for the whole family. You’ll have lots of laughs while watching, therefore, making it the best movie to watch during all the festivities. As a kid, that seemed like the most fun thing that could happen. Now, though, it seems that it's better left on the screen, for people to watch every holiday season. 

 

Mac - National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

The holidays are that special time of year when perfectly planned celebrations go off without a hitch, leaving everybody filled with the holiday joy that comes with the warm embrace of kith and kin.  

 

Oh, that's not your usual holiday experience? I don't think it's anybody's - and no movie captures the authenticity of holiday season shenanigans better than "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation."

 

Do you like zany hijinks? This movie's got them. Centered around Clark Griswold's (Chevy Chase) need to elevate his holiday to unrealistic heights, "Christmas Vacation" engages in hilarious escapades over every square inch of Griswold's suburban Chicago home. Adding to the audience's amusement are Clark's yuppie neighbors, Todd and Margo, played brilliantly by Nicholas Guest and "Seinfeld's" Julia Louis-Dreyfus.  

 

While Clark can get into plenty of trouble on his own, the rest of the Griswolds truly take the cake. Legendary actors E.G. Marshall and Doris Roberts play Clark's judgey in-laws to the hilt, while John Randolf and Dianne Ladd bring a delightful simplicity and parental practicality to Clark's holiday enthusiasm. "Cape Fear’s" Juliette Lewis, a young Johnny Galecki and "Vacation" series mainstay Beveryly D'Angelo meet Clark's antics with a loving, yet clearly patronizing, smile commonly rendered on the holiday perfectionist in every nuclear family. A pre-nervous breakdown Randy Quaid rounds out the squad of misfits as the hapless Cousin Eddie, catalyzing the drama throughout the second half of the film.

 

All in all, it's hard to describe this movie without giving too much away, but if you can appreciate the humanity found in an everyman's attempt at perfection, this movie is truly for you. Crazy pranks, an all-star cast, and the promise of roaring laughter year after year make this holiday film your best choice this winter season.