Every December, families across America prepare to enjoy once again, old and new, the same Christmas classics in celebration of the holiday season. According to the Top 10 Holiday Section of Netflix, fan favorites like The Christmas Chronicles, Klaus, and Falling for Christmas are routinely streamed.
Likewise, home hits such as Home Alone, Elf, and The Polar Express continue to be atop the lists at Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb. So why do viewers return each year to watch these stories? It is in the themes these films share.
One recurring theme characterizing these movies is the story of redemption. From Ebenezer Scrooge’s emotional transformations in A Christmas Carol or the Grinch’s heart metaphorically and literally growing three sizes, redemption has always been evident in popular holiday movies. It’s in these plots that reaffirm the lesson that compassion and self-reflection can overcome greed and thoughtless mistakes, which resonates with the season of giving.
The redemption arc is just as evident in modern movies, such as the movie Spirited (2022), demonstrating that our desire for redemption is constant.
Another theme evident in the most popular holiday movies is family and belonging. The most successful Christmas movies almost always return to the theme of family, whether it’s found or biological.
In the nostalgic film Home Alone, the ties of chaos and family give the feeling of familiarity and comfort that viewers love. The Polar Express also expresses these values through faith and closeness.
A third theme that always appears in these holiday classics is magic. Whether it’s flying reindeer or talking snowmen, Christmas entertainment can create a world where anything seems possible.
Movies such as Elf and Klaus highlight the power to believe that anything can come true. Not only the belief in mystical wonders like Santa Claus, but also the possibility of goodness. This theme of wonder resonates with audiences across generations, which can allow even older watchers to feel a sense of childlike joy.
The last theme apparent across these films is generosity. In the movie It’s a Wonderful Life, George Bailey’s selflessness transforms an entire town, demonstrating that the gift of giving can work wonders. These lessons remind audiences that generosity, whether through gifts, time, or a simple word, can impact someone’s life immensely.