Christmas 2016: Movies to watch over Christmas on Netflix, Amazon and Sky

When Christmas officially begins varies for everyone. For the organised, the festive season starts as soon as the decs go out in the stores and for the sweet tooth it’s when you open the first window in your Advent calendar. But for some, it’s the little things like snuggling down to watch your favourite Christmas movie. 

Unfortunately, airing alongside some true classics are the expected stinkers, so allow this article to be your early Christmas present as a guide towards the best festive films available on demand over the holidays. 

Into the Woods (2014) – Netflix

Based on Stephen Sondheim’s infamous West End musical, Into the Woods is a lyrical jaunt through several Grimm fairytales, which are beautifully tied together with flawless performances and gorgeous set design. A little less Disney but still a perfect hit for all the family. 

Home Alone (1999) – Netflix 

”Merry Christmas ya filthy animal’.’ A film that provided us with a much-loved Christmas catchphrase and barrels of laughs, Home Alone is a true family classic. Macaulay Culkin is a force to be reckoned with as Kevin McAllister who is mistakenly left at home to deal with two unruly burglars. Disclaimer: Do not try this at home. 

Rise of the Guardians (2012) – Netflix

A beautifully animated tale that sees Jack Frost join forces with Santa Claus, Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy and others to defeat the Boogeyman’s plans to destroy the innocent dreams and beliefs of children. With an all-star voice cast and a heart-warming tale, DreamWorks certainly have concocted a festive delight.

Gremlins (1984) – Amazon Instant Video 

Truly one of the worst Christmas presents you could ever receive, Gremlins is a cult classic where “furby-like” creatures mutate into evil goblins and terrorise the local neighbourhood. Add a little bit of fright to your festive night.

The Polar Express (2004) – Amazon Instant Video

Based on the children’s story of the same name, Polar Express is a heart-warming tale about a boy trying to rediscover his Christmas spirit. With voice casting from Tom Hanks and a young Josh Hutcherson, this is a Christmas classic that is guaranteed to keep the dream alive. 

The Wizard of Oz (1939) – Amazon Instant Video 

The story tells the magical journey of Dorothy and Toto, who must navigate the bizarre world of Oz in order to find their way home. Technically not a Christmas film, but it is certainly one that will have you singing along from start to finish! 

The Night Before (2015) – Sky 

Seth Rogan’s amalgamation of various festive movies sees three friends making the most out of their last Christmas together. A light-hearted, bubbly comedy, much like The Hangover except with added tinsel and Christmas jumpers. 

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) – Sky 

Tim Burton’s Halloween/Christmas combo is perfect for both occasions but is especially lovely in its spookified take on the festive season. I mean, what kid wouldn’t want a spider-in-a-box for Christmas? 

The Grinch (2000) – Sky

The Grinch is a Christmas classic for all the wrong reasons. Grumpy, green and hairy, the Grinch is everything that Christmas isn’t and as such is banished from the town of Whoville that centres its entire existence around the festive period. With witty Jim Carey in the title role, this is one film you can’t afford to miss this season.

Chloe Sizer