Dec 8

Dec 8 Skip the Theater: 5 Awesome Holiday Movies on Netflix

Every December, Hollywood produces a bevy of new holiday movies. While I love a good Christmas film, I usually leave the theater feeling less than jolly for spending $50 on a ticket, stale Twizzlers, greasy popcorn and a fountain drink. Instead of dropping a student loan payment on a movie that is going straight-to-video in January, this year I’m putting on my favorite jammies, popping my own popcorn and settling in with these 5 awesome holiday movies currently streaming on Netflix:

Walt Disney Animation Studios Short Films Collection

Parents, this one’s for you. While not all of the 12 shorts included in this compilation are holiday-themed, the collection begins with “Frozen Fever” which is sure to grab the kiddo’s interest. What follows are some really incredible short films, including visual stunners (and Oscar winners) like “Paperman” and “Feast.” Imagine, something you can watch with your kids without going down the repetitious “Frozen” hole. I ask, “Do you really want to build a snowman?”

A Very Murray Christmas

To enjoy this new 2015 Christmas special you must really like Bill Murray and get Bill Murray. Ten minutes in, I thought this Christmas special was headed for disaster, but it gained traction with each passing skit. There is singing, whining, and a ton of guest stars, including Miley Cyrus, Amy Poeller and Chris Rock. Directed by Sophia Coppola, what could have been a hipster catastrophe is surprisingly light-hearted and fun.

Love Actually

This British romantic comedy follows the complex love lives of nine people whose story-lines intersect in a variety of interesting ways. The A-List ensemble cast is wonderful, but Emma Thompson gives a standout performance as Karen, the wife of philandering Harry (Alan Rickman). What could be a formulaic romcom is truly a heartfelt examination of love, life and expectations. I found Colin Firth and a youthful, clean shaven Andrew Lincoln (who is usually busy exterminating zombies) especially delightful.

Planes, Trains and Automobiles

Neal (Steve Martin) who has missed his flight trying to get home for Thanksgiving runs into an endless stream of disasters. One of these disasters comes in the form of shower curtain ring salesman Del (John Candy) who gives an outrageously funny but sincere performance. Worth watching if only to see the comedic chemistry between Martin and Candy.

Fireplace for Your Home

Okay, this isn’t a “movie.” But if you’re like me and don’t have a fireplace, this 60 minute HD video of a Yule log burning is the next best thing. Toss on your favorite tunes for some instant holiday feels. Also, be sure to check out the sequel, “Winter Wonderland for Your Home.”