Netflix & Xmas: 6 Movies To Make Christmas In Covid Feel Less Ho-Ho-Horrible

Holidays in a pandemic are less than stellar.

The holidays are going to look a little different for all of us this year. Maybe you are spending Christmas alone for the first time, or can’t travel to see family as you normally would. Perhaps your favorite annual party is a no-go. Whatever the change may be, veering off from traditions is likely to be a tough adjustment. 

But that doesn’t mean Christmas is entirely cancelled. If you celebrate the holiday, don’t let the current restrictions squash your love for the season. There are still lots of ways to embrace the cheer that this time of year brings, and you can still celebrate with your partner, friends, immediate family or even on your own. Decorations? Not cancelled. Festive food and drinks? Doable. Jovial music? Bring it on! 

Watching holiday movies is another feasible way to celebrate the holiday this year. They can transport you elsewhere, evoking nostalgia for the seasons past. This can also be a way to connect with family and friends, thanks to programs like Teleparty (formerly Netflix Party) that allow you to watch films and TV in real time with loved ones. Not sure where to start? Read on for a well-rounded list of go-to holiday movies for every mood. 

1. If Your Heart Needs To Grow Three Sizes: How The Grinch Stole Christmas

While there are various adaptations of this story on film, the 2000 version is uniquely entertaining. The costumes, makeup and sets on this movie are whimsical reimaginations of Dr. Seuss’ book. Jim Carrey plays The Grinch, who lives on the outskirts of joyous Whoville, seeks revenge and plans to ruin the holiday for the citizens of the town. Hilarious, unique and ultimately heart-warming, this movie is for those who are struggling to get into the holiday spirit (and for people who love wacky hairdos). 

2. If You’re In The Mood For A ‘Culkin Christmas: Home Alone

This classic film follows an eight-year-old boy named Kevin, played by Macalulay Culkin, after his family accidentally leaves him behind at home while on vacation in France. Left with no choice but to defend his house from two burglars, Kevin comes up with creative defenses and embarks on lots of comedic shenanigans. 

With the majority of us having spent most of the year at home, this film really hits differently this season. While home alone, Kevin stuffs his face with junk food, talks to the TV and throws a “party” with cardboard cutouts. Can anyone relate? 

3. If You’re In The Mood For Classic Toons: A Charlie Brown Christmas

Well this isn’t technically a movie, it deserves a spot on the list. A Charlie Brown Christmas is an animated television special is a definite trip down memory lane. In the very first TV special based on the iconic comic strip Peanuts, Charlie Brown is feeling depressed despite the cheerful season. In a gallant effort to turn his mood around, Charlie and friends put on a festive play, and ultimately find the true meaning of Christmas. 

4. When You Just  Need Some Laughs: Elf

Elf tells the story of Buddy, played by Will Farrell, a human who was adopted and raised by Santa’s elves at the North Pole. In search of his birth father, Buddy sets off to New York City where he ventures around with a childlike spirit. 

Thanks to this comical film, some of the most quintessential Christmas pop culture references were born. From ““Son of a nutcracker!” to “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear,” Elf will fill you with enough quotes for the rest of the holiday season.

5. If You Like Your X-Mas Spirit With A Side Of Spooky: The Nightmare Before Christmas 

Tim Burton’s quirky stop-motion is a dark musical about Jack Skellington (Chris Sarandon Jr), the King of “Halloween Town,” who comes across “Christmas Town,” where he discovers the holiday and becomes obsessed with celebrating it. A completely unique story and departure from the usual Christmas narrative, this critically acclaimed film is perfect for those looking to shake things up this holiday. 

6. If You Want A Goldie Oldie That Still Resonates: It’s a Wonderful Life 

This one goes wayyy back, and is considered one of the greatest films of all time. 

The movie follows George Bailey, played by James Stewart, whose dream to help others has been squashed. His depression on Christmas Eve invites the intervention of a guardian angel. The angel shows George how he has indeed touched the lives of others, and how different life would be for his wife and his community if he wasn’t around. 

Although the movie is the oldest on this list, it still holds up today thanks to its themes. It’s a Wonderful Life shows the value of community care, friendship and human decency. It also reminds us of the drawbacks of both greed and commercialism. Reflecting the reasons for the season, this one deserves a watch. 

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Peeped anything we missed? Tell us some of your favorite holiday movies, below!

Ashley is a freelance writer and on-going contributor at TFD based in Toronto. An avid traveler, she recently returned home to Canada after two years living abroad in Vietnam and Japan. She loves to read, try new things in the kitchen, and get outside. You can learn more about her work here and can follow her adventures on Instagram @ashley_corb. 

Image via Unsplash