Star-Studded Screenings: Celebrities Reveal Their Beloved Christmas Movie Picks

Stars Share Their Heartfelt Holiday Film Favorites That Spark Joy and Nostalgia

As the holiday season approaches, television schedules fill up with beloved classic Christmas movies, and even celebrities have their go-to favorites. The tradition of cozying up with a festive film is something shared by stars from all walks of the entertainment industry. This year, we dive into some well-known personalities' picks for their preferred yuletide flicks, offering a glimpse into what brings joy and nostalgia to their holiday celebrations. From tear-jerkers to belly laughs, these films embody the spirit of Christmas for our favorite stars.

Oscar-winning actress Olivia Colman revealed that one of her must-watch films is the 1946 classic "It's a Wonderful Life," starring James Stewart. Colman fondly describes it as "a beautifully made, tear-jerking film," highlighting that watching it is always a highlight of her holiday season. Former "EastEnders" star and "Strictly Come Dancing" winner Kara Tointon shares a similar sentiment, confessing that she was moved to tears the first time she saw it a couple of years ago. "You’d need a very hard heart not to be affected by it," she notes. Sally Bretton, known for her role in "Not Going Out," echoes this enthusiasm, stating simply, "It just gets me every time." These responses reflect how this iconic film resonates with many during the festive season, capturing the essence of gratitude and reflection that Christmas often inspires.

Another festive favorite comes from comedian Alan Carr, who relishes the 1951 adaptation of "A Christmas Carol," featuring Alastair Sim as Ebenezer Scrooge. Carr’s passion for the classic is evident as he states, "Alastair Sim is so good as Scrooge." For a modern twist on the holiday tale, Craig Charles, famed for his role in "Red Dwarf," cites "Scrooged," a comedic remake starring Bill Murray, along with the action-packed "Die Hard 2" and the romantic comedy "Love Actually." Charles humorously notes, "Bruce Willis is terrific in Die Hard 2, which is set on Christmas Eve, and Love Actually brings out my romantic side." Their selections emphasize the diversity of holiday films—ranging from heartwarming tales to festive action flicks—encapsulating the varied experiences of viewers across the country.

John Simm, known for roles in "Life on Mars" and "Grace," leans towards laughter, selecting "Elf," the 2003 comedy featuring Will Ferrell as Buddy the Elf. Simm describes it as a film that deserves an "honourable mention," as it brings both humor and a poignant message, especially after learning about his own family lineage through ITV's "DNA Journey." His love for this film highlights the humorous yet heartfelt messages that can be found in Christmas movies, making it a cherished choice for family viewing. Similarly, Kris Marshall, star of "Beyond Paradise" and "Death in Paradise," finds joy in the unconventional holiday film "Bad Santa." While he admits it has a rude edge, he believes it holds "a real heart and is funny," proving that the holiday spirit can also take on a cheekier tone.

TV presenter Christine Lampard holds a soft spot for the 1985 classic "Santa Claus: The Movie," featuring Dudley Moore in a delightful portrayal of an elf. Lampard enthuses, "I just love Dudley as Patch the elf; it works for me every time!" Her enjoyment of this heartwarming tale illustrates how certain films can evoke the magic of childhood memories during the festive period. Meanwhile, former "Top Gear" host James May prefers the quietly emotional "The Snowman," which he watches with his partner Sarah every Christmas Eve. Despite knowing the story well after watching it numerous times, May shares that "Sarah still cries at it, as a matter of course," showcasing how the film continues to resonate with audiences year after year, capturing the essence of nostalgia and reflection that comes with Christmas.

Interestingly, not all celebrities lean towards purely festive films during the holiday season. Dame Joanna Lumley and TV presenter Michaela Strachan often turn to childhood favorites that evoke strong memories. Strachan favors "The Wizard of Oz," declaring, "I know it’s not strictly speaking a Christmas film, but it’s got that wonderful sense of magic." This choice highlights how certain movies can encapsulate the magic of childhood, making them suitable for holiday viewing even if they aren't traditional Christmas films. Similarly, David Mitchell expresses his appreciation for "The Wizard of Oz," calling it "such a gorgeous film" that brings back happy memories. Lumley’s admiration for classics like "Gone with the Wind" and "Breakfast at Tiffany’s" illustrates her own blend of nostalgia and cinematic appreciation during the holiday season.

As we reflect on these celebrities' favorite holiday films, it becomes clear that Christmas movies hold a special place in our hearts, whether they evoke tears, laughter, or cherished memories. From touching classics to modern comedies, these films bring both entertainment and meaning to the holiday season. As we gather with loved ones to watch these films, we find comfort in knowing that we are not alone in our traditions. This shared experience of enjoying classic films serves as a reminder of the joy that can be found in the warmth of togetherness during the festive season, creating a collective spirit that unites us all.