22 movies your whole family can enjoy this Christmas

By Virginia Allen | The Daily Signal

Finding a movie my whole family enjoys is about as common as Patriots coach Bill Belichick cracking a smile under his gray hood. My family members’ differing taste in movies is never clearer than at Christmastime, when my mom would be happy to watch only Hallmark movies and my brother-in-law insists the action thriller “Die Hard” is a Christmas movie. (Which, for the record, it isn’t.)

Around Dec. 27 every year, my family and I will find ourselves sitting on the couch at 8 p.m. after enjoying a generous dinner of leftover roast beef and mashed potatoes. Someone will suggest we watch a movie, to which we all will readily agree until the question: “But what do we watch?”

About nine times out of 10, we land on a movie that half of us will enjoy, while the other half graciously endures the film, or decides that washing the dishes would be more exciting. But then there are the rare occasions when my family stumbles across a movie or series that has just the right mix of what everyone enjoys: a good script, a creative twist, some action, a bit of comedic relief, and a happy ending.

Below in alphabetical order are 22 of those preciously rare movies or other shows that yes, my action-loving brother-in-law, my tender-hearted mother, and my self-proclaimed movie critic sister, father, and I all can genuinely enjoy.

If your family is anything like mine, I hope you find this list helpful during the holiday season and beyond.

(Note: Please be aware that not all these movies and series are appropriate for young children. Many recommendations are given with adults in mind, though some are appropriate for kids.)

1. ‘The Adventures of Tintin’ (2011)

Rating: PG

Genre: Kids and Family, Adventure, Animation

Description: A young reporter named Tintin, accompanied by his dog, buys a model ship that ultimately leads them to a great adventure at sea.

2. ‘All Creatures Great and Small’ (2020)

Rating: PG

Genre: Comedy, Drama

Description: Young veterinarian James Herriot moves from his home in Glasgow to the Yorkshire Dales of England to work in a country veterinary clinic owned by a rather difficult Siegfried Farnon. Despite many humorous challenges, Herriot determines that he will make the small community and veterinary practice his home. OK, it’s a multiseason series and not a movie, but it’s comedic, heartwarming, and offers a tasteful amount of romance.

3. ‘The Chosen’ (2017)

Rating: PG

Genre:  Drama, History

Description:  A streaming dramatic series, not a movie, “The Chosen” is based on the Gospels and follows the ministry of Jesus and his disciples.

4. ‘The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’ (2005)

Rating: PG

Genre: Adventure, Family, Fantasy

Description: Four English siblings are sent to the countyside for safety during World War II. At the estate where they are staying, the children discover an old wardrobe that transports them to the land of Narnia, where they come face-to-face with the realities of good and evil. Based on C.S. Lewis’ classic work of literature, the movie follows the book quite accurately.

5. ‘Clue’ (1985)

Rating: PG

Genre:  Comedy, Crime, Mystery

Description: Based on the beloved board game, “Clue” the movie is a comedic murder mystery set in an old mansion. Six guests are invited to dinner, but after their host is killed they’re left to solve the crime.

6. ‘Elf’ (2003)

Rating: PG

Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Family

Description: When an elf named Buddy learns he really is a human adopted by elves, he journeys to New York City to meet his father, who happens to be on Santa’s “naughty list.” Buddy’s love for Christmas brings joy back into the lives of his new family and friends, and ultimately leads to his saving the holiday.

For full list of 22 movies click here.

Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons/Smoobs