‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ fails to ignite holiday spirit
Gracie Kay / Staff Reporter
As I sat down to watch the classic 1947 movie “It’s a Wonderful Life” for the first time, I was met with disappointment, as it didn’t live up to the classic holiday experience I was promised.
The film tells the story of George Bailey (James Stewart), whose dreams of leaving his small hometown for the city are cut short by the passing of his father and his obligation to take over the family business. After an arrest warrant is issued for him for misplacing $8,000 of the business’ money on Christmas Eve, George is left contemplating suicide.
Just as he is about to jump off a nearby bridge, George’s guardian angel (Henry Travers) shows him what the world would have been like had he never been born. He then realizes the value of his life and rushes back home to his wife and children, just in time for Christmas.
Although this film has a heartwarming message about the importance of family, it didn’t truly feel like a holiday movie to me. Over an hour of buildup before the major conflict on Christmas Eve was far too long to hold my attention, and the lack of comedy in the film made it drag on even longer. Additionally, the back half of the film doesn’t have much to do with Christmas, aside from the fact that is when it takes place.
Overall, “It’s a Wonderful Life” was less than a wonderful viewing experience for me.
Heartwarming plot of ‘Elf’ perfect for families
Caroline Baldwin / Staff Reporter
The holiday season is a wonderful time consisting of singing, family and joy. This warm feeling that many eagerly look forward to year-round is perfectly captured in the movie “Elf.”
The main character, Buddy the Elf (Will Ferrell), embarks on a journey from the North Pole to find his long lost father in New York City. Jam-packed with dozens of comedic moments, this story is sure to make anyone smile.
While watching this film, I experienced a lot of loving and heartfelt moments of friendship and family when the characters shared hugs, laughs and many warm embraces.
Overall, I recommend watching this movie to get into the holiday spirit. Watching “Elf” alongside my family was a fantastic way to kick off the holiday season.
Humor in ‘Christmas Vacation’ captivates viewers
Bree Dixon / Staff Reporter
“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” tells the story of Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase) and his family. Griswold desires a perfect holiday with his wife and kids, but things quickly derail. This fun-loving and comedic film grabbed my attention from the moment it started.
The chaotic holiday tale begins when Griswold’s cousin Eddie (Randy Quaid) arrives unannounced with his family and their big, slobbering dog, Snots. Eddie and Griswold’s extended family quickly cause mass destruction not only to the inside of the house, but also to Griswold’s Christmas plans with his family.
While the commotion continues within the house, Griswold’s emotions reach their breaking point when his boss cuts the annual holiday bonus from his paycheck. Griswold’s entire family then joins together in an attempt to fix Griswold’s Christmas.
In the end, Griswold realizes that despite his Christmas having imperfections, his family was all he needed. I found this to be the best part of the movie because while laughing, I was really able to feel the holiday spirit and tie in the importance of family, a major theme throughout the film.
This movie remains one of the best holiday films because of its witty humor and ability to tie in large themes about spending time with loved ones, making it a must-watch holiday classic.
‘Frosty the Snowman’ has nostalgic charm
Dylan Horn / Staff Reporter
Holiday movies are the perfect way to rewind to my childhood and fulfill the joy of the holidays.
“Frosty the Snowman” is a classic movie that takes place in a town filled with snow. One winter day, the children of the town notice a magical hat that appears to be floating through the air. The magical hat then falls onto a pile of snow and turns it into a talking snowman named Frosty.
Frosty helps the children believe in magic and bring life back into the dull town.
While watching this movie, the smooth, old animation style gave me a calming feeling that I really enjoyed. I also felt like I was teleported back to my childhood when I first heard the movie’s catchy jingle, “Frosty the Snowman.”
Overall, I enjoy this classic because of the nostalgic feeling that emulates all of the magic and wonderful memories that embody the holidays.
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