As someone who has grown up with the spirit of Christmas engraved into my soul, I must say that both “Scrooged” and “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” are absolute gems from the 80s that never fail to bring a smile to my face during the holiday season.
Every year around Christmas, I find myself reminiscing about those timeless ’80s holiday specials. Even without the aroma of gingerbread or the sight of twinkling lights outside my window, I can still immerse myself in these classic Yuletide tales. The wonders of modern technology make it possible to stream them, purchase them on Blu-Ray, and even catch them on cable anytime, anywhere that suits me best.
Which of these 1980s Christmas movies should be playing on your TV when it snows outside? More importantly, which ones would be better left out in the cold? We’ve compiled a list of some of the most popular and cherished Christmas films from the 1980s. Note that this list contains mostly big-screen productions, with one TV movie thrown in for good measure. Arranged from mediocre to fantastic, this list should prove helpful. Cut a slice of fruitcake, warm up some apple cider, and dive into what brings holiday cheer to our screens annually.
Santa Claus: The Movie
This one might be most enjoyable if viewed through the lens of fond memories. It has a bit of cheap charm and a fair amount of cheese – honestly, the endless elf puns from Dudley Moore’s Patch can become quite overwhelming! However, it earns its spot on this list due to its mention, even though it doesn’t quite match up to the heavyweights. For those who grew up in the ’80s, there’s a certain nostalgic, comforting appeal to Tri-Star’s attempt at making a timeless Christmas movie.
The movie narrates the story of Santa Claus, portrayed by David Huddleston, who hires Patch, a dynamic assistant, when his heavy workload becomes overwhelming. Patch’s initiatives to modernize at the North Pole lead to chaos and ultimately his resignation. He then moves to New York, where he encounters the wicked toy tycoon B.Z., played by John Lithgow. Revealing some of Santa’s secrets to B.Z. and inventing a magic lollipop threatens Santa’s reputation, as B.Z. covertly plans to supplant him due to his desire to replace the jolly old elf.
Hello! It might not be a masterpiece like Shakespeare’s works, but it’s filled with Christmas cheer, amusing, and adorable. At times, that’s enough to make even the longest family holidays enjoyable.
One Magic Christmas
This Disney movie, with its delightful and humble charm, carries a touch of sentimental sweetness that might make you reach for a tissue or two. Unlike the widely recognized classic “A Christmas Story”, “One Magic Christmas” doesn’t quite reach iconic status, but it does have a dedicated fanbase among those who appreciate heartwarming family films.
In this story, Gideon (played by Harry Dean Stanton) has been dispatched personally by none other than Santa Claus, with a mission to mend the troubles of the Grainger family. The members of this family – Ginnie (Mary Steenburgen), Jack (Gary Basaraba), Cal (Robbie Magwood), and Abbie (Elisabeth Harnois) – are all grappling with a significant shortage of holiday cheer, primarily due to their precarious financial state and the impending fear of homelessness. To add to their woes, Ginnie and Jack often find themselves at odds over Jack’s aspirations for opening a bicycle shop.
As a devoted viewer, I found myself captivated by an unexpectedly spiritual movie production that Disney brought to us. Though it hasn’t undergone a significant cultural reassessment just yet, it remains an engaging and enjoyable diversion for a chilly winter afternoon.
Die Hard
It’s the ultimate modern movie question: is “Die Hard” a Christmas movie or not? Well, it’s set on Christmas Eve night, it features a Christmas party gone awry, and it features some very Christmas-themed deaths. We’ll be darned if that’s not good enough to count.
As a die-hard fan, I find myself stepping into the shoes of John McClane, the determined police officer. On this particular Christmas Eve, my goal isn’t just to apprehend criminals but also to prove my devotion to my estranged wife Holly by attending her work party. Little did I know that Nakatomi Plaza, the venue for this festive gathering, was about to become a battleground.
While a thrilling action film like “Die Hard” might top many lists, given it’s not strictly a traditional Christmas movie, it seems a bit off to compare it directly with classic holiday films. However, it holds a special place as the world’s favorite action-adventure Christmas movie, which is quite something indeed.
Ernest Saves Christmas
Although some might criticize the “Ernest” movie series as tacky and amusing during the late 1980s and early 1990s, these films were popular favorites for children’s cinema across the globe. Re-watching them today, you’ll notice that many of them remain entertaining. Particularly, “Ernest Saves Christmas” stands out as it not only maintains the series’ goofy charm but also delivers a heartwarming message about love and unity.
In this new take, Santa Claus (portrayed by Douglas Seale) intends to hand over his responsibilities to a wholesome TV personality, Joe Carruthers (played by Oliver Clark). However, things take an unexpected turn when he finds himself in the car of the zany character, Ernest P. Worrell (Jim Varney). Santa’s troubles begin here as he loses his bag full of toys, prompting Ernest to embark on a quest to return the lost goods to their rightful owner. The race is against time, as they strive to persuade Joe to step into Santa’s boots, and meanwhile, Ernest encounters a teenage girl named Harmony (Noelle Parker), who is on her own journey home. “Ernest Saves Christmas” is a delightfully sweet and amusing film, perfect for both children and adults, with just the right amount of quirky humor.
Prancer
The movie titled “Prancer” is a heartwarming, soft-spoken film that emphasizes the values of family and Christmas spirit. Over time, it has surprisingly gained popularity among the major 1980s Christmas films, even though those who grew up during that era might not instantly recognize it. However, its raw, authentic portrayal continues to stir emotions and tug at heartstrings despite its lack of initial fame.
Jessica Riggs (played by Rebecca Harrell) struggles after her mom passes away, while her dad John (Sam Elliott) grapples with the challenge of carrying on their small apple farm without his wife. Their eldest son Steve (John Joseph Duda) lends a hand, and Sarah (Rutanya Alda), John’s sister-in-law, suggests taking Jessica in to ease their financial strain. However, everything takes an unexpected turn when a reindeer appears on the scene. Jessica believes the reindeer belongs to Santa Claus, causing John to reevaluate his priorities and find renewed faith.
This stands out from other vacation options as it offers a poignant reflection on familial love, the significance of hoping for the improbable, and the strengthening of the bond between a father and his daughter.
The Snowman
Currently, we’re diving into heartwarming nostalgia. Although it may seem like a slight bend in the rules since it’s a British TV production, many American children first encountered “The Snowman” when it sailed across the Atlantic in 1984, gracing various cable channels. It might not be as legendary here, but without a doubt, it holds significant importance as a traditional Christmas viewing choice.
The short film follows the adventures of a young boy who wakes up to a snow day. He makes a snowman, who quickly comes to life. They have an adventure overnight, and the boy has a time he’ll never forget. But when he wakes up, it’s to a sad surprise: No snowman can last forever.
This movie is delightful, straightforward, and genuinely touching, and while it might be a bit brief, it held the same level of fondness for ’80s children as “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” did, making it effortlessly deserving of a place on this list.
Gremlins
Regardless of whether viewers consider “Die Hard” a Christmas movie, there’s no denying that “Gremlins” is definitely one. The story unfolds during the Peltzer family’s chaotic holiday season, as their town becomes overrun by Gremlins who serenade with carols and don Santa hats. Despite its darker elements, it remains enjoyable, and maintains a festive atmosphere of love and unity amidst adversity.
In a pinch for gift ideas, hapless inventor Rand Peltzer (played by Hoyt Axton) finds himself in a predicament with his teenage son Billy (Zach Galligan). While browsing through a quaint Chinatown store, he purchases an endearing creature called Gizmo, a Mogwai. The shopkeeper cautions him about three essential rules for caring for the Mogwai: don’t feed them after midnight, keep them dry, and avoid exposing them to too much light. However, these guidelines are swiftly disregarded. A mishap involving Billy’s friend results in Gizmo spawning five unruly Gremlins. These Gremlins rapidly multiply until the entire city is under siege. In a desperate bid to save themselves and others, it’s up to Billy, his companion Kate, and their beloved Mogwai, Gizmo, to put an end to the chaos.
Somehow, the darkly humorous elements infused with gruesome imagery seem incredibly fitting against the bright, festive backdrop of Christmas. This is quite unusual, but it contributes to making this film a uniquely memorable viewing experience.
Scrooged
In a modern take on “A Christmas Carol,” the movie “Scrooged” presents a lively, materialistic reinterpretation of a miserly individual’s transformation. This man learns not only to face his comeuppance but also to improve himself by infusing love and compassion into the lives of many New Yorkers.
In simpler terms, the character Frank Cross, portrayed by Bill Murray, is a self-absorbed TV producer who suffers the consequences of his mean actions towards his colleagues and loved ones. His former mentor, Lew Hayward (John Forsythe), also self-centered, appears as a ghost to Frank, prompting an overnight tour through the city with spectral versions of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet-to-Come. Their goal is to help Frank reduce his selfishness, reconnect with Claire Phillips (Karen Allen), bring holiday cheer to New York City, mend his relationships, and enhance the lives of the Cooley family.
Managing an appealing balance of sarcasm and kindness, the movie “Scrooged” understands that its true strength lies within its compassionate core.
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
Although it might not typically evoke warm feelings, the humorous holiday movie “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” has become an essential watch for many families during the 1980s holiday season. Over the years, it has become a cherished annual tradition for countless households worldwide.
Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase) yearns for a classic Christmas celebration with his loved ones. This year, since his parents and wife, Ellen (Beverly DeAngelo), are coming, he’s eager to create a festive and shining atmosphere. However, he doesn’t anticipate Cousin Eddie showing up with his entourage and trailer, or his Christmas lights malfunctioning, his tree catching fire, his pool project being shelved when his work bonus turns out to be a monthly jelly subscription instead, which in turn leads Eddie to abduct his boss in retaliation.
This contemporary masterpiece offers countless reasons to love it, ranging from the entertaining acting to the quotable dialogue to the deeply touching sentiment hidden beneath its frequently coarse jokes. For ’80s children, this is a timeless treasure.
A Christmas Story
This film is repeatedly played by TNT and TBS from late Christmas Eve through Christmas morning, making it iconic. It carries significant cultural weight as a tradition, offering a somewhat innocent glimpse into American history, and serving as a classic, widely-quoted holiday comedy.
“Ralphie Parker’s Christmas Wish
Brimming with warmth and humor, it’s undeniably the crème de la crème among ’80s Christmas movies. Although a few aspects might not hold up quite as well over time, it remains the unparalleled gem of its holiday film generation.
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2024-09-26 04:00