What to watch this Christmas?

Rise of the Guardians (2012)

This one is not exclusively a Christmas movie, but it definitely deserves a spot on everyone’s holiday watchlist. Rise of the Guardians captures the spirit of the season better than most, taking you on a journey  with a team of legendary figures. Jack Frost, of course, is a key anchor that brings together North (a tatooed Santa), the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy, and the Sandman. The film’s stakes feel real, yet its message remains uplifting:  even in the darkest moments, hope and imagination are powerful forces. Visually, the animation is stunning, from its snowy landscapes to vibrant characters that bring the story together. Ask yourself: When did you stop believing in the Tooth Fairy, or Santa Claus? Perhaps you never did, or perhaps you never stopped.  – Sijung Lee

Run time: 1h 37m

Home Alone (1990)

Home Alone has become a Christmas classic for a reason, and there’s no better time to revisit it than during the holidays. From festive warmth, childhood silliness, to pure chaos, the film captures exactly what it’s like to escape into something joyfully familiar. The story of Kevin McCallister, who is accidentally left behind when his family jets off for Christmas, taps into every child’s fantasy of freedom. The film is packed with iconic moments, celebrating kindness, bravery, family, and the joy of being together.  Watching it at Christmas isn’t just tradition – it’s a reminder of what makes the season so special.  – Sijung Lee

Run time: 1h 43m

Nativity! (2009)

This is a genuine movie about coming together despite personal difficulties, showing  the complicated relationships between teachers and students. It beautifully exemplifies how hard work and determination can allow you to strive even in environments where you are outmatched in talent and resources. These themes surrounded by a festive narrative easily bring the warm and cheerful feelings in the build-up to Christmas. The first movie portrays these ideas well; however, later installments fail to meet the same magical atmosphere of the first movie. – Katharina Felici

Run time: 1h 45m

Klaus (2019)

An unexpectedly beautiful and one of the most emotionally resonant animated films of the past decade. Klaus is a fresh take on the Santa Claus origin story, told with sincerity, humour, and timeless animation style. The film follows  Jesper, a spoiled postman exiled to the snow-covered town of Smeerensburg, where bitterness has replaced joy and neighbourliness. The story never relies on clichés; instead, it builds its emotions with care, allowing small acts of kindness to grow into something extraordinary. Klaus is a reminder of how kindness can reshape the world, one gesture at a time. – Sijung Lee

Run time: 1h 37m