The ho-ho-holiday season is finally here again! Every other home is already filled with the warm, cinnamon-scented air of gingerbread men cookies and lit up with sparkly trees by now, no doubt. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking forward to a cosy night in with your significant other, a good Christmas movie for company is always a treat.
We’re pretty sure you wouldn’t want your delicious festive feast to get cold as you mull over what to put on as entertainment. Thus, the Z Team has come together once more to present you with selections of our favourite Christmas movies to help you avoid this potential dilemma!
Four Christmases (2008)
Emma Mallaburn, Editor
Far from romantic and with a 25% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, it’s no surprise that many shy away from choosing this as their holiday movie. But I am a HUGE fan of Vince Vaughn and Reese Witherspoon, so crappy ratings or not, Four Christmases shines bright in my eyes.
In this movie, Brad and Kate–happily unmarried—despise the idea of marriage and kids. With both their parents divorced, Christmas can often be chaotic, hence their booking a vacation abroad. But alas, fate has other plans, and the exotic vacation turns into a forced celebration times four. Will their relationship survive the horrors of the holiday season? If you believe in Christmas magic, you bet it will!
Watch it here.
Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)
Xin Xin Lee, Head of Design
Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey is a visually stunning holiday film that combines heartwarming storytelling, unforgettable music, and a message of hope and imagination. Set in a whimsical, steampunk-inspired world, the story follows a toymaker’s journey to rediscover his creativity and faith in family.
The movie showcases soulful performances and vibrant musical numbers. Its breathtaking set design, original songs, and themes of perseverance and redemption make it an inspiring and joyous experience. Perfect for audiences of all ages, it’s a magical addition to holiday traditions.
Watch it here.
Tokyo Godfathers (2003)
Ami, Social Media Intern
This isn’t your typical Christmas movie. It follows three societal outcasts—a drunk, a drag queen, and a teenage runaway—who, despite their contrasting personalities, have formed an unlikely familial bond on the streets of Tokyo. The story begins when they discover an abandoned baby in a dumpster on Christmas.
With little information about the baby’s parents, they set out to perform a Christmas miracle. The film is an emotional rollercoaster, blending humour and melancholy with unexpected twists and turns. It’s an intriguing watch; it shines light on characters rarely represented in media, especially in animations.
Watch it here.
The Holiday (2006)
Teresa Rodrigues, Social Media Lead
The Holiday is a festive classic filled with romance, charm, and a dash of holiday magic! Watch as two women swap homes and find love in unexpected ways—and let’s not forget Jude Law, who steals hearts with his dashing looks and irresistible charm. It’s a must-watch this season!
Watch it here.
Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)
Aina’ Imran, Editorial Intern
The first Home Alone is a classic, but its sequel is even better. Kevin’s display of mischief is present all the same but in an upgraded setting ─ New York! Kevin’s wish to spend Christmas alone during a fit of anger is granted when he finds himself accidentally boarding a different plane and separated a thousand miles away from the rest of his family.
Ever the smart and resourceful kid, he turns this misfortune into an adventure as he weaves his way through a luxurious stay and then escapes from the jailbreaking Wet Bandits in the city. You just can’t go wrong with this evergreen holiday picture. Honestly, I even watch it out of season.
Watch it here.
Elf (2003)
River Huei, Sub-Editor & SEO Specialist
Elf is a Christmas classic that never fails to bring back nostalgia for the holiday season. Will Ferrell’s playful portrayal of Buddy captures the childlike wonder of Christmas, making it a movie I return to year after year. Watching Buddy’s journey from the North Pole to New York City is a reminder of the joy and wonder we felt as children during this magical time. The film never fails to warm my heart with its playful humour, heartfelt moments, and the belief in Santa that makes the holidays so special.
Watch it here.
Anna and the Apocalypse (2017)
Maggie De souza, Brand Experience Manager
Most Christmas movies tend to lean towards the feel-good, rom-com genre. Anna and the Apocalypse offers something a little different. It’s a musical with a zombie apocalypse twist and a blend of three things I look for in a downtime/holiday watch:
- Catchy soundtrack
- Dark humour
- Gory action
It’s a refreshing pick for anyone (like me) who gets bored of the usual festive film formula. The story’s mix of the undead, heartfelt moments, and musical numbers (personal fave: Turning My Life Around) gives this movie its charm.
Watch it here.
Last Christmas (2019)
Ashley Lim, Events & Programming Executive
I would recommend watching Last Christmas. It’s a heartwarming holiday rom-com that follows Kate, a cynical and disheartened young woman, as she meets Tom, a charming and optimistic stranger who inspires her to rediscover joy and hope. The film delivers a touching message about love, redemption, and the magic of the holiday season. Perfect for cosy nights in!
Watch it here.
