Christmas is undoubtedly the most special time of the year. It's a time for gathering and sharing love and joy. It's also a time when the cold weather leads us to seek comfort in a homely environment, accompanied by delicious food and, of course, Christmas movies.
Being a genre in itself, Christmas movies have become a crucial element of the festive season. They offer not just entertainment, but also embody the values of love, kindness, and the magic that define this time of year. With this in mind, we present a selection of six cinematic Christmas gems available on Apple TV, ideal for enjoying as we usher in the year 2024.
1. The Grinch, 2018
This beautiful animated movie introduces us to the Grinch, a green, small-hearted yet entirely adorable creature who detests Christmas with all his might. He lives in solitude in a cave atop a mountain, accompanied only by his loyal dog Max. However, his peaceful solitude is disturbed each year by the inhabitants of Whoville and their extravagant Christmas celebrations. When this year the Whos declare they're preparing a Christmas three times bigger, brighter, and noisier, the Grinch decides to take drastic measures: to steal Christmas.
In an idyllic setting with stunning cinematography, the Grinch, voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch, commits his misdeeds to end Christmas. But when he meets young Cindy Lou Who, his plan falters. Through her, the Grinch learns the true meaning of Christmas and redeems himself, completely turning around his life and feelings for the holiday. A wonderful, heartwarming, and fun adaptation of Dr. Seuss's story.
The Grinch is available for rental or purchase on Apple TV, Google Play and Amazon Prime Video.
2. The Polar Express, 2004
Another animation classic, The Polar Express tells the story of a boy who starts to doubt the existence of Santa Claus. However, everything changes when a magical train, the Polar Express, arrives in his neighborhood on a snowy December night. Along with other children who share his doubts, the Polar Express takes him directly to the North Pole, where he meets the real Santa Claus. Adventures abound, but also the understanding of what makes Christmas what it is, leading our young protagonist to appreciate and celebrate the holidays with the joy and innocence of a child.
The Polar Express is available for rental or purchase on Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, and with a subscription on HBO Max.
3. White Christmas, 1954
A classic Christmas musical. After returning from World War II, Bob and Phil (Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye), singers and dancers, decide to make a living performing musical numbers. Along the way, they meet two sisters (Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen) who are also pursuing the same career. They all end up at a quaint, forgotten hotel in Vermont facing financial challenges, which happens to be owned by their old commanding officer. Determined to help him save the business, the four protagonists celebrate a grand Christmas party with a magnificent show. A classic movie brimming with color, elegance, dazzling costumes, and wonderful songs by Irving Berlin."
White Christmas is currently available for rental or purchase on Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, and with a subscription on Netflix.
4. The Santa Clause, 1994
The Santa Clause is a delightful comedy that tells the story of Scott Calvin, an ordinary man who accidentally causes Santa Claus to fall from his roof on Christmas Eve. By putting on Santa's suit, Scott magically finds himself taking over this iconic role. Throughout the movie, he struggles to accept his new identity while trying to maintain his normal life. This funny and emotional movie explores themes like fatherhood, faith, and the Christmas spirit.
The Santa Clause is currently available for rental or purchase on Apple TV, Google Play and Amazon Prime Video, and with a subscription on Disney+.
The list could go on, as there are many heartwarming movies that focus on this beautiful time of year. However, these stand out among the best for their narrative, performance, and also for the cinematography and overall aesthetics of the movie. They are always excellent candidates for immersing oneself in the Christmas spirit.
On Hanaringo | Apple TV+'s new 2023 Christmas catalog: all the series, movies, and their release dates