The Holdovers – 2023, Rated
Directed by Alexander Payne, “The Holdovers” is a dramady that follows a New England boarding school’s lonely teacher, cook and a group of students who, for various reasons, are unable to go back to their homes for winter break and their unlikely friendships are made along the way. Set in the 1970s, the film captures the melancholy charm of the time with classic cinematography and stands out for its unique sense of humor and its way of portraying human connection in times of anger and grief. If you yearn for a holiday film that is both humorous and hearty, this cinematic masterpiece is a refreshingly unconventional film that will leave you struck.
Trigger Warnings: Offensive language, drug use, racial stereotypes, brief sexual material.
Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas 1977, unrated
“Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas,” directed by Jim Henson, is a true holiday gem from the late 1970s that blends heartwarming storytelling with Henson’s signature puppetry. Set in the small town of Frogtown Hollow, the film follows Emmet Otter and his mother, who are struggling to make ends meet but decide to enter a talent contest to win money for Christmas presents. The holiday spirit is alive in the simple, yet beautifully crafted world of the film, with its catchy folk songs and heartfelt message about love, sacrifice and community. The charming puppetry, combined with a rich soundtrack, makes “Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas” a tender holiday favorite.
Trigger warnings: N/A
Serendipity – 2001, rated pg-13
Directed by Peter Chelsom, “Serendipity” is an absolute whimsical, romantic holiday film that often flies under the Christmas binge radar. The story follows Jonathan (John Cusack) and Sara (Kate Beckinsale), who share an unforgettable moment on Christmas but part ways, only to be brought back together by the debatable fate years later. The film beautifully captures the magic of chance encounters and the idea that love is meant to be. Its cinematography portrays the quiet intimate beauty of New York City in winter. The film is a sweet, underrated classic that leaves you further immersed in the feeling that love can be found in the most unexpected places.
Trigger Warnings: Mild sexual content, brief language, mild substance use.
Meet Me in St. Louis – 1944, Rated pg
“Meet Me in St. Louis” is a classic that arguably does not receive as much praise as it deserves in today’s world. Directed by Vincente Minnelli, this lovely musical tells the story of the suburban Smith family as they navigate love and change in early 1900s St. Louis. The film captures the nostalgic feel of the holiday season while conveying the warmth of family and spirit via song, lavish scenery and the still fairly new use of technicolor. With resonant themes of young love, familial chaos and the bittersweet drifting of moments, this film balances humor and poignancy with a rare and effortless charm.
Trigger Warnings: Racial stereotypes, aggressive behavior, violent references.
