After all the stress of the fall semester, the holidays are now in full swing: A time to be with family, and de-stress from the pressures of school and work. Truly, there's nothing better to do with the free time than to sit back and watch some movies.
This holiday season, tune into these specialty-selected films from The Echo for some winter-themed hidden gems and childlike holiday cheer.
"A Charlie Brown Christmas" (1965)
If you're seeking a childhood throwback filled with existential dread, look no further than everyone's favorite anxious cartoon character, Charlie Brown.
In only 25 minutes, "A Charlie Brown Christmas" is a gentle but not so subtle reminder of everything the holidays are supposed to be. Instead of a time to indulge in individualism and greed, the movie reminds us that the holidays are a time to celebrate connection and foster unity. Put it on for a quick palette cleanser to revive your Christmas spirits before the big holiday.
"Little Women" (2019)
The 2019 Greta Gerwig film adaptation isn’t necessarily set during winter, but its opening scene takes place on Christmas Day. If you're looking for a warm film that feels like a childhood memory and a soft smile, watch the March sisters' trials and tribulations from adolescence to adulthood. "Little Women" is a timeless classic that still holds up more than a century after the book was published and will no doubt continue to connect with people for generations to come.
"The Holdovers" (2023)
A recent Christmas addition, "The Holdovers," is the kind of slice-of-life story that transcends generational barriers. Set in the 1970s, following an insensitive boarding school teenager, his even more standoffish teacher and a grieving mother who lost her son in the Vietnam War. "The Holdovers" showcases unlikely bonds and sweet connections.
It's a movie guaranteed to make you laugh and shed a tear with its raw tenderness, heartfelt acting and great soundtrack.
"The Shop Around the Corner" (1940)
Everyone knows "It's a Wonderful Life" is a Jimmy Stewart Christmas staple, but if you're looking for another old Hollywood winter feature, look no further than "The Shop Around the Corner."
The film is a comical romantic ride following two gift shop employees who can’t stand each other, somehow exchange love letters unknowingly.
"The Shop Around the Corner" is full of chemistry and that hazy nostalgia that makes old Hollywood so effervescent. If you're looking for a classic twist on the Christmas romance, this film is one to tune into.
"How the Grinch Stole Christmas!" (1966)
Jim Carrey’s iconic take on the Grinch comes to mind when picturing the character, but this Christmas, revisit the original animated film adaptation. It's a perfect watch if you want to enjoy the whimsical spirits of Whoville and listen to the iconic "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch."
Outside of its bright colors and catchy tunes, the short is a beautiful reminder of the joys of the holidays, so much so that it might have your heart growing three sizes by the end of it, too.
"Bridget Jones’s Diary" (2001)
Another winter classic with an opening scene set during Christmas, "Bridget Jones's Diary" is everything a rom-com should be. It's the perfect recipe for romance, served with a side of dry wit and humor.
The film, a modern-day adaptation of "Pride and Prejudice," is anything but traditional, with Bridget Jones being the most relatable protagonist who's just trying her best.
If you want a scrappy love triangle and a modern screwball-inspired comedy, "Bridget Jones's Diary" has got you covered.
"The Umbrellas of Cherbourg" (1964)
If you don’t mind getting your heart ripped in two, the beloved French New Wave classic is the perfect film if you want to experience visual and sonic delight.
"The Umbrellas of Cherbourg" is undeniably unique, made so by its dialogue, which is sung the entire time. It also has a color palette so bright, it's hard to take your eyes off the screen. Even with its musical influences and visual appeal, the film is a tale of heartbreak and passion.
The film is a perfect watch for when you want to experience the burning bruise of young love on a cold winter's night.
"Good Luck Charlie, It's Christmas!" (2011)
Do not let the Disney Channel original title fool you. "Good Luck, Charlie, It's Christmas!" is one of the best, most endearing Christmas movies. It's the kind of silly watch you force your whole family to view, and it sticks — even grandma’s going to like this one.
If you want a fun flick and some Disney magic, don’t watch "A Christmas Carol." Surprise the family and put on "Good Luck, Charlie, It's Christmas!" You won’t regret it.
Edited by Kasturi Tale, George Headley and Ellis Preston.
Reach the reporter at jagon128@asu.edu.
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Jazlyn Gonzales is junior studying Journalism and Mass Communication. This is her third semester with the State Press. She has also interned at KJZZ.
