As a child of the ’90s, I must say that Kevin McCallister from “Home Alone” is undeniably one of my all-time favorite Christmas movie characters! The way he manages to turn his home into a booby-trapped fortress and outsmart those bumbling burglars, Harry and Marv, is just pure genius.
The Christmas movie is a genre unto itself, complete with its own tropes, themes, and aesthetics. Whether it’s a wholesome family dramedy, an action movie classic, or a horror parody, the Christmas of it all still shines through. Every year, new films are added to this ever-expanding catalog, but few cement themselves in the pantheon alongside the black-and-white classics, animated specials, and more recent comedies that have come to define the holiday season through TV marathons.
Quite frequently, it’s the unforgettable characters in the most-loved Christmas films that make them stand out. We have seen a variety of characters such as overworked parents, underdog cartoon characters, mythical beings, and even troubled children. The genre has produced many iconic faces and acting performances throughout its history. Now, we’re pitting these icons against each other to find definitively who is the best Hollywood ambassador for the holiday season.
For creating this list, we’ve broadened our scope beyond films alone, considering shorter Christmas specials that have left a significant cultural imprint as well. It’s important to note that we’re not only evaluating these characters based on their individual traits, but also how they embody and portray the spirit of Christmas. Here are the top Christmas character representations, ranked.
Mrs. Parker: A Christmas Story
As a gaming enthusiast diving into the holiday spirit, let me kick things off with an old-school flick that’s often hailed as the ultimate Christmas movie. Now, you might expect Ralphie, our spirited young protagonist, to be my choice for “A Christmas Story.” But hold on tight, because I’ve got a twist up my sleeve – it’s Mrs. Parker who truly steals the show!
Through Ralphie’s spectacled perspective, his mother plays a pivotal role in the movie, serving as a voice of reason and embodiment of Christmas spirit. Even amidst adversity, she maintains the festive spirit. She symbolizes one of the fundamental aspects of Christmas: the weary parent who strives for the best. Yet, despite her attempts to shield them from mischief, they persistently create it, resulting in cherished memories that last a lifetime.
Mrs. Parker embodies the qualities that make her relatable, trustworthy, and truly representative of the spirit of Christmas. Is there any further argument needed to confirm her place on this list?
Hermey the Elf: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Our first animated character comes early on this list, but who could argue against Hermey the Elf earning a spot amongst the greats? He’s an elf who wants to become a dentist. That’s his whole deal, and all these decades later, it still works just as well as when the story first aired in Rankin/Bass’ 1964 special. The simple absurdity of the character is funny and wholesome at the same time, and what is Christmas if not a time to embrace the version of yourself you want to be?
Among the timeless stop-motion characters in Christmas TV specials from that period, Hermey is arguably the most unforgettable and endearing secondary character, although he may not be as highly ranked as some others.
The Kids: The Polar Express
Instead of placing the hot chocolate conductor in this spot, let’s be honest, the unsettling realism depicted in “The Polar Express” has become quite noticeable over time. However, its enduring charm for a specific group stems from the moving Christmas tale it tells. In our discussion, we’ll consider not one but both of the unnamed child characters from the movie who embody the film’s central message about the enchantment of Christmas.
Instead of populating the list with quirky secondary characters (which we do have in abundance), let’s focus on evaluating characters based on their embodiment of Christmas spirit – that warm, magical essence of the holiday season. The children from “The Polar Express” beautifully embody that childhood holiday magic, mirroring the exhilaration and anticipation we all feel when Christmas is just around the corner, a feeling that keeps us coming back to watch this movie every December, even with some admittedly scary visuals.
Stacy, Margaret, and Fiona: The Princess Switch Trilogy
Netflix has increasingly taken over the genre of low-budget, campy, formulaic Christmas movies from Hallmark in recent years, flooding the market with what seems like an endless stream of similar snowbound romance tales. Keeping track of them all can be quite challenging. However, these cheesy yet beloved holiday romances are a staple subgenre, and given Netflix’s growing popularity in this area, it’s only fair to include one of their productions on this list.
From the group, we’ve chosen the three characters portrayed by Vanessa Hudgens in the “Christmas Switch” trilogy – a set of movies where various Vanessa Hudgenses mysteriously exchange places with one another. Shenanigans arise, hilarity ensues, and so on. They are ideal for those lazy days spent lounging on the couch, and they offer enough heartwarming scenes (and some genuinely entertaining performances from Hudgens) to elevate them above many of their streaming-exclusive counterparts.
Argyle: Die Hard
Indeed, “Die Hard” can certainly be considered as having a strong Christmas theme. It’s a tale that revolves around a couple whose bond is tested, finding themselves at odds just as the holiday season arrives. A dramatic sequence of events ensues within the festive setting, where our hero must thwart a group of criminals who have seized control of a towering skyscraper, putting everyone inside in peril. These tumultuous events ultimately serve to remind them of their love and commitment to each other.
In our discussion, we’ve decided not to associate Die Hard with either John McClane or Hans Gruber, despite their excellent portrayals by Bruce Willis and Alan Rickman in the film. We even considered Sgt. Al Powell, given his holiday spirit and fondness for sweets, but his backstory – a cop who shot a child – is somewhat problematic. Instead, we’ve opted for Argyle, the limo driver who picks up McClane at the airport and waits in the garage beneath Nakatomi Plaza throughout the movie. Argyle embodies compassion and cheer, which are essential holiday traits. Additionally, he shows great courage at the end of the film, making him an ideal companion for a Christmas party gathering.
Clarence: It’s a Wonderful Life
It’s quite possible to strongly justify that Clarence from “It’s a Wonderful Life” should rank higher on this list, considering his character as an underdog angel who never earned his wings, yet helps a desperately struggling human being, makes for a very appealing plot. The enduring popularity of the film over nearly 80 years is greatly attributed to Henry Travers’ captivating portrayal of this role.
To put it simply, while there are other more renowned characters from Christmas movies, Clarence, despite not being the main character in “It’s a Wonderful Life,” is still an outstanding figure worthy of mention. In fact, he received his own spin-off movie titled “Clarence” in 1990. Regrettably, this spin-off doesn’t measure up to the original. Instead, it would be more rewarding to rewatch “It’s a Wonderful Life” yet again.
Ellen Griswold: Christmas Vacation
Ellen Griswold may not have been the main star in “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” but she certainly stands out for this selection. Her portrayal of handling family-related holiday chaos resonates with many viewers, mirroring the universal struggle we often face during festive seasons. Despite her unconventional ways of dealing with stress, such as smoking and indulging in misery, her character, Mrs. Griswold, has a special place in our hearts due to her relatable struggles.
As a gamer, I can totally relate to this: “Anyone who endures Clark Griswold’s endless, marriage-on-the-brink escapades deserves some applause, especially during the holiday season. Sometimes, we all find ourselves being Ellen, and in that sense, she embodies us all. Makes you ponder, doesn’t it?
Myron Larabee and Howard Langston: Jingle All the Way
In our struggle to choose between the two hilarious characters from “Jingle All the Way,” Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Howard Langston and Sinbad’s Myron Larabee, we find ourselves at a standstill. This decision might just send them both over the edge! To put it simply, these two are an unholy alliance, and while their film may have its shortcomings, it is forever etched in our memory due to their relentless rivalry.
Finding the perfect hot toy for your child before Christmas can be quite a challenge, especially when everyone else is after it too. The characters played by Sinbad and Schwarzenegger are hilariously outlandish in their performances, adding to the chaos that makes this film a cult classic favorite.
Charlie Brown: A Charlie Brown Christmas
At Christmastime, not everyone experiences joy and happiness. Instead, Charlie Brown represents the somber aspects often associated with this season, symbolizing doubt, low self-esteem, and feelings of isolation that resonate with many adults in the tale “A Charlie Brown Christmas.
Despite the challenges, he finds beauty in the season with the support of genuine friends. His journey in “A Charlie Brown Christmas” embodies the essence of the holidays and earns him a spot on this list, as well as broader recognition for his endearing qualities.
Bob Cratchit: The Muppet Christmas Carol
“A Christmas Carol” is a timeless holiday story, and Charles Dickens’ tale of redemption has been reinterpreted for film many times. Yet, none can match the charming absurdity of “The Muppet Christmas Carol.” This version boasts the finest portrayal of Bob Cratchit on the big screen, thanks to the talented actor Kermit the Frog (or Steve Whitmire).
From his musical spotlight moment in “One More Sleep ‘Til Christmas” to the tear-jerking story of Tiny Tim, this is some of the best Kermit you’ll find in the post-Jim Henson era. Ol’ Bob hits all the notes of emotional resonance and Muppet hilarity, making this character one for the ages.
Karen: Love Actually
There are many compelling characters in the wide-ranging cast of “Love Actually,” and much thought went into choosing the best one among them, with Liam Neeson’s Daniel being a strong contender. However, it was eventually Emma Thompson’s portrayal of Karen that clinched the title as the most outstanding character.
It’s clear that everyone acknowledges Karen deserved a better situation, but it was her marital struggles that led to Thompson’s exceptional portrayal, capturing a mix of intricate emotions with a straightforward determination and candor. This character is both heart-wrenching and uplifting, much like the short stories in the popular holiday movie that leave a lasting impression despite being brief. Can you imagine how you might have handled her predicament?
George Bailey: It’s a Wonderful Life
George Bailey is similar to Charlie Brown in live-action holiday films, as he finds Christmas difficult, yet ultimately discovers the charm of existence. It’s tough to deny that he deserves a place among the top 10 characters.
Jimmy Stewart’s impressive filmography makes choosing a top role challenging, but his performance in “It’s a Wonderful Life” stands out, even though it might not be as intricate as his roles in Hitchcock movies. The movie remains a Christmas classic because the emotional arc of George’s story resonates deeply with viewers. It’s inspiring to witness a character rise from despair to regain hope, and the film creatively reimagines the “Christmas Carol” narrative by showcasing a virtuous man experiencing flashbacks and alternate realities rather than a stingy character like Ebenezer Scrooge.
Frosty the Snowman: Frosty the Snowman
Among all characters symbolizing Christmas spirit, none surpasses Santa and the snowman, particularly the cheerful Frosty, who embodies the fleeting magic of this season that promises to return every year. Frosty understands the essence of seizing joyous moments when they come – dancing, singing, and reveling in merriment. Furthermore, it’s hard to find a Christmas movie character exuding more style or panache than Frosty.
Despite being a legendary figure, Frosty doesn’t hold the top spot among characters from the Rankin/Bass era in this listing, which you might have already suspected. Rest assured, we’ll cover that ground shortly.
Buddy the Elf: Elf
Beware of spoilers: Buddy the Elf, portrayed by Will Ferrell in the movie “Elf,” ranks as the second most popular character of the 21st century on this list, barely missing a spot in the top 5. This high placement underscores the challenge of creating a timeless classic and how exceptional “Elf” truly is. Today, it’s regularly broadcast during holiday movie marathons alongside films that have been around for much longer, yet its freshness often goes unnoticed due to its recent release.
Essentially, Buddy, played by Ferrell, is the main factor behind its widespread appeal. His endearing portrayal of childlike innocence, even in his most clueless scenes, makes you grin at the on-screen shenanigans. There’s an unspoiled charm to Buddy that keeps viewers hooked, and it doesn’t hurt that Ferrell is as amusing as he is adorable in this role.
Rudolph: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
At the heart of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” lies a tale centered around resilience, persistence, and celebrating one’s uniqueness – these are the defining traits of its remarkable protagonist. He was the original symbol of perseverance long before Rocky Balboa graced our screens as the undisputed champion of underdogs. Indeed, Rudolph paved the way for many other beloved characters, making him a legend in his own right, well before they were even thought of.
It’s difficult to dispute Rudolph’s placement among the highest-ranking characters in Christmas movie history any more than one could contest his song being a leading holiday melody. Although Frosty might be considered the most exceptional character from this iconic era of TV Christmas specials, Rudolph’s pivotal role in making the holiday occur at all gives him an undeniable advantage.
Jack Skellington: The Nightmare Before Christmas
Jack Skelington, the central figure in “The Nightmare Before Christmas”, remains an intriguing character to this day. Is the film a Christmas tale? A Halloween story? In essence, it’s both, along with a unique blend of its own kind. Jack deftly blends these contrasting elements of the movie, making it a timeless classic.
He’s a little misguided, sure, but his heart is always in the right place. He wants to learn about new places and other kinds of people, and while his particular worldview (see: spooky) might lead to some chaos, his genuine reverence for the Christmas spirit is admirable. Perhaps most impressively, Jack could easily be argued for a similarly high placement when ranking Halloween movie characters. He’s versatile, memorable, and truly one of a kind.
Kevin McCallister: Home Alone
Is there a more well-known Christmas movie character than Kevin McCallister? Indeed, there are several others, as listed here; however, it’s notable that a small, naughty trickster who seems to prioritize causing trouble over holiday cheer remains such a prominent symbol of the season.
Of course, there is a relatability factor at play. Who can’t empathize with the neglected sibling, caught up in the mania of a household that has surpassed the parents’ ability to contain it? There’s also something to be said about Kevin’s comfort level when it comes to spending time with himself. He finds the joy in the little things, which is a lesson we can all afford to learn.
However, it isn’t due to any of those factors that he holds such a prestigious position – the third place ranking. It’s because having an eight-year-old child thwart burglars with DIY traps is undeniably one of the most brilliant ideas in film history, regardless of whether it’s set at Christmas or not.
The Grinch: How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Some readers might have anticipated finding this character in the top spot, given the popularity of the Grinch as one of Christmas cinema’s most iconic villains. Whether you consider the original animated version or Jim Carrey’s portrayal, the Grinch’s transformation encapsulates the essence of the holiday season, making Dr. Seuss’ tale so cherished for its themes of community, fellowship, and shared celebrations.
As a devoted fan, I can confidently say that none compares to the Grinch when it comes to memorable character design. His appearance may seem straightforward, but it brilliantly encapsulates his inner transformation and journey of self-discovery. There’s only one Christmas movie character who might potentially challenge him for the top spot – you guessed it, the jolly old man himself!
Kris Kringle: Miracle on 34th Street
In this context, it’s essential to place Santa Claus in the leading role. You see, he is the iconic character associated with Christmas movies, appearing in numerous films, both well-known and less renowned. For the sake of our discussion here, we’ve chosen a classic interpretation – that of Edmund Gwenn as Kris Kringle from “Miracle on 34th Street.
For numerous individuals, it remains the most beloved Christmas movie, and Gwenn’s portrayal is considered the epitome of a Christmas movie performance. Even after nearly 80 years, Kris Kringle continues to stir emotions as deeply as the sunrise on a snowy Christmas morning. Gwenn deservedly earned his sole Oscar and first (of two) Golden Globe awards for his role in the film. There is simply no character more iconic than Santa Claus, and no other Santa can come close to matching this portrayal.
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2024-10-17 14:30