JAYLEN RANDLE Staff Writer
As the semester starts to wind down, soon all classes will be online. Many of you will be headed home for the holidays to celebrate and be with family. As this time of the year begins, I’m sure many of you are already in the christmas spirit. And for those who aren’t there just yet, here’s a little help. Here’s a list of 10 guilty pleasure movies to watch for the holidays when you return home!
“Elf” (2003)
This Christmas comedy starring Will Ferrell is guaranteed to reel in lots of joy and Yuletide cheer for your holidays. The story of a bewildered grown man wandering the bustling streets of New York City under the belief that he’s one of Santa’s elves is both original and entertaining to watch unfold on your TV screen. College means a lot of “adulting” whether we like it or not, and this movie serves as the perfect remedy to unleash your inner child.
“How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (2000)
See the magical children’s book “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” by Dr. Seuss come to life with this movie adaptation. This Christmas comedy has made the arrogant and grim Grinch a household name across the United States, all while stressing the significance of being the precise opposite — caring and compassionate to others. While Berkeley may not be an exact replica of Whoville and its Whos, the same protocol of kindness applies not just during the festive months, but 24/7.
“A Charlie Brown Christmas” (1965)
Based on the familial comic “Peanuts,” “A Charlie Brown Christmas” has established itself as a holiday classic because it teaches viewers the real meaning of Christmas — being around the people you love. Although it may sound corny or cheesy, this Emmy Award-winning special will touch your heart as you watch the “Peanuts” gang rally together as one to rekindle Charlie’s spirits.
“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” (1964)
We’ve all heard the Christmas jingle growing up, but have you watched the equally iconic TV special? With his one-of-a-kind red nose, Rudolph becomes a mockery among the reindeer of the North Pole. In a mere 55 minutes, however, the importance of embracing your individual qualities becomes an essential theme of the holiday flick — a crucial message to keep in mind year-round.
“Home Alone” (1990)
Can’t say that we can all relate to being accidentally left behind during Christmas vacation only to embrace the daunting responsibility of protecting our vacant home against two foolish burglars, but it sure does make for an interesting film to watch. Despite the film’s slightly unrealistic narrative, it’s a classic family film that both adults and children can find enjoyable. But you may want to have a different way of handling a home invasion.
Disney's A Christmas Carol (2009)
This is another animated film, but this one is based on the story written by Charles Dickens. It focuses on Scrooge himself, who is voiced by the wonderful Jim Carrey, and it forces him to look at the error of his ways. He is visited by different ghosts who help him see why he needs to make a change during the holidays so he doesn't suffer a miserable fate. It will encourage any Scrooge who watches the film to reevaluate their life and see where Christmas can shed a light on their poor behavior.
The Polar Express (2004)
On Christmas Eve, a young boy embarks on a magical adventure to the North Pole on the Polar Express, while learning about friendship, bravery, and the spirit of Christmas.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Jack Skellington, king of HalloweenTown, discovers Christmas Town, but his attempts to bring Christmas to his home causes confusion.
The Santa Clause (1994)
When a man inadvertently makes Santa fall off of his roof on Christmas Eve, he finds himself magically recruited to take his place.
Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)
One year after Kevin McCallister was left home alone and had to defeat a pair of bumbling burglars, he accidentally finds himself stranded in New York City - and the same criminals are not far behind.
