7 Great Christmas Movies to Watch in Your Recliner Chair

Tuesday, 22 October 2024

Tis the season to snuggle up in your favourite recliner, eat merrily and watch lots of festive films. Here are seven great Christmas movies...

One of the best bits about Christmas is snuggling up in your favourite recliner chair or sofa to watch Christmas movies! From old classics to modern legends, we share seven great festive films you can watch with your partner, family, or on your own. So, grab a mulled wine or a mince pie, and read on…

1. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
   We know we’ve shared this one before, but it’s still rated as the best Christmas movie ever made. Don’t be put off by the black and white format! There’s a hint of Black Mirror about this old classic, which can just as easily be enjoyed today. It’s thought-provoking and full of festive sentiment that epitomises the real meaning of Christmas. On the brink of despair, the story focuses on a bank clerk played by screen legend James Stewart. We guarantee there won’t be a dry eye in the house.

2. Die Hard (1988)
   Often hotly debated as a Christmas film, we think this action-packed movie deserves second place and so does Time Out magazine! It’s the perfect blend of every film ingredient you need when you’re relaxing and full of food after your Christmas dinner. With its thrill-seeking pace, Bruce Willis plays the daring police officer, John McClane, attempting to rescue hostages from villain, Hans Gruber, played by Alan Rickman. Set on Christmas Eve at a festive party, this is a high-tension action thriller!
   
3. Love Actually (2003)
   Yep, we have included this one again because of its beautiful multiple storyline! Millions of faithfuls watch this film religiously year after year because it takes you on a roller-coaster ride of different emotions. One minute you’re giggling at Billy Mack (Bill Nighy) and next you’re furious at Alan Rickman’s character for cheating on his wife (Emma Thompson). With its festive theme throughout, it’s worth watching purely for Hugh Grant’s famous Downing Street dance! Curl up in a cosy recliner with a glass of your favourite tipple, a box of chocs, and plenty of tissues to watch this one.
   
4. Gremlins (1984)
   This dark horror comedy is a firm favourite and tells the story of what happens when you don’t follow those Christmas present instructions! Directed by the legendary Steven Spielberg, this famous film is about the unleashing of a horde of mischievous monsters. It’s worth remembering that it’s a 15 rating, so you might want to put this on when the little ones are tucked up in bed. This film is best watched snuggled up with your favourite person on a comfy reclining sofa with a box of popcorn!
   
   
5. The Snowman (1982)
   A gentle, wordless animation with haunting music that can be watched by any age especially the under 5s, The Snowman is an atmospheric classic. The artwork is beautiful and enchanting, evoking feelings of nostalgia for bygone times. Parents of a certain age will have watched this film when they were young. Its mindfulness message is to cherish moments of joy when they happen because nothing lasts forever. A firm family favourite that can be re-watched every Christmas on a day bed.
   
6. Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001)
   If you’ve seen this film before, then you’ll probably instantly think of cartoon animal pyjamas and awful Christmas jumpers! And that’s what makes this modern classic a great festive film because so many people can easily relate to it. Played by Renѐe Zellweger, we follow the trials and tribulations of Bridget’s love life. It’s a rom com that navigates the 21^st century world of dating, while A-listers Colin Firth and Hugh Grant battle for Bridget’s attention. A warm-hearted film perfect for Christmas Eve.
   
7. Bad Santa (2003)
   Another dark holiday comedy, Bad Santa tells the hilarious story of a rogue conman played by Billy Bob Thornton. Disguised as Santa with the aid of his associate, Little Helper, their attempt to rob department stores doesn’t quite go to plan! Silly and sweary, it’s a simple watch when you’ve had too much to eat and drink and you need some light entertainment. The heart-warming friendship with a bullied child brings some festive warmth into this crime-themed, Santa romp.

Whether you’re putting up decorations in November, or you’re a sulky Scrooge, there’s a Christmas movie for everyone. Find your happiness in whatever makes you smile this Christmas. And don’t forget to make sure you have comfy furniture this coming yuletide too!