Everyone from Rotten Tomatoes to Good Housekeeping has published lists of favorite Christmas films. These are my top five Christmas movies, according to my own opinion. These stand in no particular order, as I enjoy each of these movies.

“How the Grinch Stole Christmas” is a movie created in 2000, starring Jim Carrey and Taylor Momsen. This is personally my favorite Christmas movie as it utilizes Carrey’s trademark exaggerated wacky style of acting. The comedy provides a wonderful addition to the simple yet beautiful story.

“Home Alone” is a movie starring Macaulay Culkin that tells the story of Kevin, a boy left home alone to defend his house and eventually himself from burglary. This movie uses slapstick humor to make an interesting movie for the holidays.

“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” follows the Griswald family yet again through a holiday fiasco. Another comedy on this list, the 1988 film mixes family drama with classic comedy to create a great movie for the family to watch.

A common favorite for many, “The Polar Express” is a 2004 movie following a group of children, an almost magical train, and a quick midnight trip to the North Pole. This warm movie focuses on a journey of self-discovery that makes viewers feel the holiday emotions pushed through the screen.

To end this list, “The Nightmare Before Christmas” is an animated movie combining the spooky ideals of Halloween with the jolly season of Christmas. In this film, Jack the Pumpkin King kidnaps Santa and takes over Christmas. The interesting plot and unique animation give this movie a beautiful reputation as a perfect watch from Halloween to Christmas.