In The Community
The Plot Is Always the Same—And You Love It
Photo by freestocks on UnsplashCity girl with a high-powered job reluctantly returns to her small hometown (bonus points if it’s called something like “Evergreen Hollow”). There, she meets a ruggedly handsome man who makes Christmas ornaments for a living. They bicker, fall in love, and save the local Christmas tree farm—just in time for the Christmas Eve kiss. You know exactly what’s going to happen, and somehow, that’s the magic. It’s like a warm, festive security blanket for your soul.
Everyone Is Gorgeous—Even While Shoveling Snow
How is it that nobody in these towns has a bad hair day? The women always have flawless curls, the men are rugged lumberjacks with perfectly trimmed beards, and even the extras look like they moonlight as catalog models. Meanwhile, you’re over here in sweatpants, questioning your life choices but still swooning over Mr. Christmas Cardigan.
The Small Towns Are Completely Unrealistic
Every Hallmark small town has:
- A twinkling Christmas market
- A magical coffee shop that serves the best peppermint mochas (but never has lines)
- Snow that falls perfectly without ever turning into slush
It’s so picture-perfect it borders on absurd, but don’t lie—you’d move to “Candy Cane Falls” in a heartbeat if you could.
The Holiday Cheer Is Almost Too Much
Photo by Carlos Macías on UnsplashEvery single person in these movies LOOOVES Christmas. We’re talking decorating contests, caroling at the drop of a hat, and elaborate gingerbread houses that look like they should be in Architectural Digest. In real life, you know at least one person who hasn’t put up a tree since 2005. But somehow, watching a town where every citizen is holiday-obsessed feels… oddly comforting?
The “Conflict” Is Always Ridiculous
Photo by rajat sarki on UnsplashLet’s face it: the drama in these movies is laughable. Will the Christmas pageant go on after the star loses her voice? Will the snowstorm delay the big corporate deal? Will our heroine choose love over her big-city promotion? None of it matters, and yet you’re sitting there, genuinely invested, as if the fate of Christmas itself hangs in the balance. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t—but your eyes will probably still water a little when they make it work.
You Can’t Stop Watching, and You Don’t Even Care Anymore
You started watching ironically, maybe even hate-watching. But now? Now you’re fully committed and it’s an essential part of your holiday season. You have favorite tropes and you’ve started Googling which movies are premiering this year. You might roll your eyes at the over-the-top cheesiness, but you’re grinning the whole time. Admit it—you’re in too deep, and you love every minute.
Hallmark Christmas movies are like sugar cookies: a little too sweet, undeniably predictable, and somehow impossible to resist. So, stop lying to yourself and everyone else, and admit you think they’re great. Ridiculous, yes, but great. It’s not a guilty pleasure, it’s just a pleasure, and no one’s judging.
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Black Christmas (1974)
This cult classic is basically the godfather of Christmas horror. A group of sorority sisters is terrorized by an unknown killer during their holiday break, and it’s as chilling as it is suspenseful. With creepy phone calls and a tense, claustrophobic vibe, it’s the perfect mix of festive and downright scary.
Krampus (2015)
Think Santa’s the only one watching you? Think again. “Krampus” dives into the dark side of holiday folklore, bringing the mythical, horned creature to life. When a family’s holiday bickering goes too far, Krampus shows up to teach them a terrifying yet necessary lesson. Bonus points for the creepy gingerbread men! It’s a good mix of horror and comedy, so it’s perfect for the season.
Gremlins (1984)
This one’s a Christmas horror classic, for sure. It starts off cute, but don’t be fooled. When Billy ignores the rules for taking care of his Mogwai, all holiday hell breaks loose. The mischievous, murderous gremlins turn a quaint town into chaos, and it’s as hilarious as it is horrifying. Just don’t feed them after midnight, for the love of God!
Better Watch Out (2016)
This movie answers the question: what would happen if “Home Alone” was actually dark instead of silly goofy fun? “Better Watch Out” starts off like your average holiday babysitting gig but quickly spirals into psychological horror. With twists, turns, and plenty of holiday decor used as weapons—this one’s a wild ride.
Silent Night, Deadly Night (1984)
What happens when Santa swaps milk and cookies for murder? This controversial slasher follows a young man who puts on a Santa suit and goes on a killing spree. It’s over-the-top, campy, and filled with ‘80s horror goodness. Just don’t watch it with the kids around.
Terrifier 3 (2024)
In a sense, “Silent Night, Deadly Night” walked so “Terrifier 3” could run and go absolutely wild. In this one, the terrifying Art the Clown also puts on a Santa suit and goes off, but that’s where the similarities stop. If you like a good gore fest, the kind that’s campy and kind of fun but also stomach-churning, the latest installment in the “Terrifier” franchise should be on your watchlist. This is for adults only and expect it to be fully over-the-top. It really pushes the envelope, so be prepared for a ride, but trust that the final girl will deliver.
A Christmas Horror Story (2015)
This anthology film packs quite a few horror stories into one holiday package. From a haunted Christmas tree lot to Krampus facing off with Santa, you’ll get a lot of different scary but fun stories in one movie. William Shatner even plays a radio DJ, because why not? This one’s perfect for a lazy Sunday.
The Lodge (2019)
If you’re in the mood for a slow-burn psychological horror, “The Lodge” delivers. A family retreat to a snowy lodge takes a dark turn as secrets, guilt, and paranoia bubble to the surface. It’s atmospheric, eerie, and the perfect cozy and creepy movie for a winter night. Just keep in mind that the story can get quite dark, so expect to be unnerved and the twist will definitely blow your mind.
Elf (2003)
Let’s start with the obvious, cause why not? “Elf” is pure holiday magic wrapped in a big bow of hilarity. Will Ferrell as Buddy the Elf is the kind of chaotic wholesomeness we all need to ease into the season. From his obsession with maple syrup to his hilarious interactions with the “normal-sized” world, Buddy’s journey to reconnect with his dad is as heartwarming as it is laugh-out-loud funny. You’ll never look at spaghetti the same way again…
Home Alone (1990)
Is it really Christmas if you haven’t watched Kevin McCallister outsmart a pair of bumbling burglars? “Home Alone” is an absolute classic, combining nostalgia, comedy, and a whole lot of heart. Watching Kevin turn his family’s house into a booby-trapped fortress never gets old, and by the time that sweet reunion at the end rolls around, you’ll be reaching for the tissues (just admit it). Make sure to have pizza on hand—it just feels right.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
For those who want a little spooky with their merry, Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” is the ultimate crossover. Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, discovers the joy of Christmas in his own delightfully weird way. It’s got catchy songs, stunning visuals, and a story that celebrates the spirit of the holidays with a gothic twist. It’s also perfect for that in-between mood when you’re still holding onto your Halloween vibes but are ready to embrace the jingle bells.
The Holiday (2006)
If you’re craving romance, “The Holiday” is here to deliver. This movie follows two women—played by Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet—who swap homes for the holidays in an attempt to escape their messy lives. Enter Jude Law and Jack Black, a few adorable meet-cutes, and plenty of festive scenery, and you’ve got the perfect feel-good holiday movie. Warning: You might want to book a quaint English cottage getaway after this one.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
We fear that Jim Carrey as the Grinch is still unbeatable. This live-action adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ beloved story hits all the marks. It’s funny, moving, and so immersive you’ll feel like you’re in Whoville. Plus, it will transport you to the early 2000s and hit you with all the nostalgia. From his snarky one-liners to his surprisingly heartfelt redemption arc, the Grinch reminds us all about the true meaning of Christmas. The whimsical sets, quirky costumes, and that iconic moment where his heart grows three sizes? Pure Christmas gold. Plus, Cindy Lou Who is just the cutest.
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