You are in for a cozy night and cannot decide what movie to watch. Crystal snowflakes fall gently on your window, and burning logs crackle in the fireplace, as you sit, wrapped in a warm blanket with a cup of hot cocoa (along with marshmallows) in hand. You flip through the Netflix options, but with so many holiday films available, it is difficult to choose what to watch. And so, the top five holiday movies are presented here. 

#5 “Elf” (2003)

The main character in “Elf”, Buddy, was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a toddler and raised to adulthood by Santa’s elves. Later in the movie, Buddy is unsatisfied with himself because he believes he does not fit in with the others, and so he goes on a search for his biological dad in New York City – all the while wearing his full elf uniform. This movie will ensure a good laugh, and there are some memorable moments, including when Buddy tries fitting on a normal (non-elf) toilet. This movie is suitable for all ages.

#4 “The Nightmare Before Christmas” (1993)

Jack Skellington the Pumpkin King grows tired of Halloween and wants something new and different. Jack discovers a new holiday that seems to bring him joy, but unintentionally brings disaster to everyone in the world. Will he fix his mistake? Watch to find out!

While “The Nightmare Before Christmas” is an older film, it ranks on the top five because it combines two holidays: Halloween transitions to Christmas in a most-unexpected way. The characters are creepy and the town itself is dark, but when Jack finds Christmastown, he learns an important lesson all viewers can appreciate.

#3 “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (2000)

The Grinch lives on top of Mount Crumpit and is disliked by the people in Whoville in the third film on this list. When it comes to the Christmas season, the Grinch hates it with a passion. It is a well-known fact his heart is “three sizes too small”, but there is a change in his heart that makes him look at Christmas differently, and he wants to, in fact, save Christmas. Watch the movie to see why his heart changes, and whether he can salvage the holiday for the Whos. The characters in “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” are unique, and the plot is engaging. The movie is a great option for all ages.

#2 “Home Alone” (1990)

Eight-year-old Kevin McCallister acts out before a family trip to Paris and receives the punishment of sleeping in the attic. Kevin’s parents fall asleep on the day of the trip, and are in such a big hurry that they accidentally forgot Kevin in the attic. Kevin soon realizes that two con men are planning to rob the McCallister residence, and as the only one there, he must protect the family home! This movie is filled with an adventurous storyline that makes viewers joyful for the holidays! There are a lot of funny moments that will bring out a good laugh in both children and adults.

#1 “Polar Express” (2004)

A doubting young boy, Chris, obtains a train ticket for the Polar Express after it magically appears in his bathrobe pocket. The Polar Express is no ordinary train though, it is specifically headed to the North Pole. Little does Chris know that an extraordinary journey awaits him. Towards the end of the movie, he encounters a self-discovery that shows him that the wonders of life never fade for those who believe.

The plot of this movie is outstanding, and audiences will find a heartwarming message for Christmas. The animation is different from “The Nightmare Before Christmas” and other holiday movies. “Polar Express” is number one on the list because it is underrated, and deserving of more attention.