Christmas movies: Staff pick The Elf, Grinch and more for best flicks to watch on Christmas Eve

‘It was the night before Christmas and the perfect opportunity to settle in, put on a festive movie and get into the holiday spirit.
We have selected the best Christmas movies for you that will make you experience the excitement of Santa’s visit even in the biggest pain.
Here is the list of the best movies to watch tonight:
Elf (2003)
A must-see for many families, Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, the human raised by Santa’s elves, and brings his childlike wonder into the real world to meet his comedy-watching family.
There’s a reason why this movie always comes up in conversations when people debate what the best Christmas movie is.
Santa Claus (1994)

A timeless classic of the ’90s and still watchable today, Tim Allen stars as the reluctant heir to the new jolly guy in the red coat.
The family film became an instant hit and spun into a franchise with the release of a trilogy of films, but it’s best to stay away from the third.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

Arguably the most Christmassy movie of all time, Jim Carrey was the perfect man to portray the Grinch, who hates Christmas while the town of Whoville lives for Christmas.
The comedy centers around young Cindy Lou, who helps the Grinch find the holiday spirit just in time for the big day.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

December 24th seems like the perfect time to watch Tim Burton’s holiday movie about Jack Skellinton’s adventures in Christmas Town.
Despite the darker tones, it’s an excellent family-friendly movie to enjoy the night before Christmas.
Vacation (2006)

Anyone looking for a quintessential romance movie to watch on Christmas Eve need look no further than The Holiday.
Featuring all the hallmarks of a classic romantic comedy, the film shines with the performances of Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law and Jack Black and their evolving love story.
Polar Express (2004)

Another movie set on Christmas Eve, Polar Express is a movie that the whole family will enjoy with its timeless animations.
Tom Hanks takes on a gallery of characters and helps bring them all to life in an adventure film about a young boy’s mission to the North Pole.
Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)

While the first Home Alone title is often the punters’ choice, the sequel offers just as much appeal with plenty of seasonal cheer.
Following the iconic original, Kevin McCallister’s antics in the Big Apple will have audiences laughing until Christmas Day.
Love Actually (2003)

A film that takes a broad look at eight different stories, Love Actually is the perfect Christmas romantic comedy.
Packed with a star-studded cast, the film spawned so many iconic moments and rewatchable scenes that people keep coming back year after year.


