With the holiday season around the corner, the Westminster community is preparing for an exciting winter break. While some are traveling abroad, others are staying in town, ready to enjoy holiday movies. Whether it’s holiday classics or modern takes on the festive season, there’s a diverse set of films for everyone to watch.
“My favorite holiday movie is probably Elf,” said sophomore Harper Bateman.
Starring Will Ferrell, directed by Jon Favreau, and written by David Berenbaum, Elf is a 2003 Christmas comedy that has become a classic staple of the season. The film follows Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole, as he travels to New York City to meet his biological father, Walter Hobbs, who is in desperate need of Christmas spirit. With its humor and cheerful tone, Elf is the perfect movie for the holiday season.
Movies like Elf not only capture the strong Christmas spirit but also evoke special memories people share with their loved ones.
“I remember decorating my grandma’s house for Christmas while playing Elf on the TV,” Harper added.
Holiday movies offer a break from the stress of school and the business of the holiday season. Most are comforting and feature happy endings, with many tied to nostalgic memories of watching movies with family while growing up.
Another favorite holiday movie is White Christmas.
“One of my favorite Christmas movies is White Christmas,” said sophomore Emma Stamps.
White Christmas is a 1954 musical film directed by Michael Curtiz. The film stars Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera-Ellen. It is renowned for its iconic soundtrack, including the title song “White Christmas,” which has become one of the most successful Christmas tracks of all time.
White Christmas for Stamps is tied to cherished moments with her family.
“I remember watching it with my grandparents every year,” she said.
Other popular holiday movies at Westminster include A Charlie Brown Christmas, Home Alone, The Polar Express, and The Grinch Who Stole Christmas. Each of these classic holiday staples allows viewers to laugh and relive memories during the holiday season, providing a lesson about the true meaning of the holiday season.
“My favorite memory that I can remember from watching Home Alone for the first time was when my sister and I were laughing so hard that we started crying because of all of Kevin’s pranks,” said freshman Jaina Alexander.
Whether it’s the comedic charm of Elf or the musical nostalgia of White Christmas, holiday movies continue to bring joy, comfort, and a sense of connection to the Westminster community.
Edited by Kavya Athota
