There are more Christmas movies for rent at the video store than a person could watch during the month of December. There are, of course the classics like "A Miracle on 34th St.", "A Christmas Story" and "It's a Wonderful Life." But there are some Christmas movies that are constantly overlooked. The kinds of off-beat movies that anybody reading this blog would enjoy. And don't forget the Christmas episodes of TV shows! Here are some fantastic movies that will put you in the Christmas spirit (and may just tickle those Gothic sensibilities too!):
Fitzwilly (1967) - Miss Vicki's loyal butler, Fitzwilliam, leads the household staff to rob from various businesses by charging goods to various wealthy people and misdirecting the shipments, all to keep up Miss Vicki's standard of living. A delightfully naughty Christmas romp starring Dick Van Dyke.
Batman Returns (1992) - When a corrupt businessman and the grotesque Penguin plot to take control of Gotham City, only Batman can stop them, while the Catwoman has her own agenda (and all set against the backdrop of a very Tim Burton-esque Christmas season!).
The Dead (1987) - Gabriel Conroy and wife Greta attend a Christmas dinner with friends at the home of his spinster aunts, an evening which results in an epiphany for both of them. A rather depressing but beautifully acted adaptation of James Joyce's novel starring Angelica Huston.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) - It's Tim Burton. It's Halloween. It's Christmas. Need I say more?
The Hogfather (2006) - It's Hogswatch (equivalent to Christmas) on the Discworld and the Hogfather has gone missing, requiring Death to take his place while his granddaughter Susan endeavors to find out what has happened. This is my favorite Christmas movie. It is 4 hours long, but one of the most heartwarming Christmas evenings you will ever spend.
Rare Exports (2010) - This film is dark and violent enough to satisfy all Gothic and horror fans at Christmas without being cliched, and leave you with a warm-fuzzy feeling of familial love. A rare combination of emotions, and well worth the watch!
Blackadder's Christmas Carol (1988) - Pleasant Ebenezer Blackadder is turned into a cruel and witty miser after seeing visions of his ancestors and descendants. You gotta love Rowan Atkinson. His Blackadder never fails to entertain.
As for TV shows, my favorite Christmas episodes come from "The Addams Family," "Psych," "Castle," "Bones," etc... Old shows (from the 60's and 70's) have the best Christmas episodes! Check some out and let us here at the Lonely Alchemist know what your favorites are.
Ciao!
The Lonely Alchemist and friends
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