5 underrated Christmas movies (and at least one new classic)

Traditions at Christmas are a core part of any festive season, and one such ritual in many households is the Christmas movie. Whether it's Die Hard on Christmas Eve, It’s A Wonderful Life as the presents are being opened, or falling asleep to Home Alone, certain films have been seen hundreds of times in thousands of households around the country. The one issue with tradition, however, is that you might miss out on a brand new festive favourite if you refuse to branch out.

So, if you’re looking for a new adventure to undergo this holiday season, check out these underrated flicks that are sure to be added to your rotation i Mí na Nollag...

Tokyo Godfathers

Satoshi Kon’s Christmas comedy is an absolute delight from start to finish. While the late anime director is best known for visually surreal thrillers like Perfect Blue and Paprika, this mostly-realistic adventure is easily his sweetest. Centring on three homeless people who look to reunite an abandoned baby with their mother, the film is full of twists, turns, and an emotional heart that’ll have you believing in the magic of Christmas again (streaming via Apple and Amazon Prime)

The Holdovers

While this American drama was only released earlier this year, I'm certain it’s going to become a timeless classic. Alexander Payne captures that feeling of limbo between Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve perfectly, and the relationship between Paul Giamatti’s gruff teacher to Dominic Sessa’s outstanding debut as the rebellious student with a soul is one to remember. Not only will this film be added to your Christmas movie playlist, the Labi Siffre needle drops are sure to be added to your Christmas music playlists as well (streaming via Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play and YouTube)

Klaus

One for the whole family to enjoy, this Netflix feature was the first of its kind from the streaming service to be nominated for Best Animated Feature, and for good reason. JK Simmons stars as the reclusive Klaus (I wonder who that could be?), who befriends a local postman played by Jason Schwartzman, best known for his regular collaborations with Wes Anderson. This heartwarming tale of friendship also features the great Norm MacDonald's final feature film performance (streaming via Netflix)

On Her Majesty's Secret Service

Franchise films are a staple of any Christmas viewing, with households watching the entirety of the Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, or Star Wars in the month of December. While a full binge of the Bond films would take over 50 hours, it might be easier to stick to the one most connected to the holidays. Between avalanches, assassination attempts and a returning Blofeld, it's hard for George Lazenby’s one-time Bond to have a merry Christmas (streaming via Apple, Amazon and Google Play)

Little Women (2019)

Released on Christmas Day five years ago, Greta Gerwig's stunning retelling of the Louisa May Alcott classic boasts an all-star cast, stunning visuals, and a beautiful soundtrack from Alexandre Desplat. Both Saoirse Ronan and Florence Pugh received Oscar nominations for their performances as the March sisters, but you’ll be hard pressed to find a stronger ensemble... or a more heartwarming (and occasional heartbreaking) tale. Sad, beautiful and a little bit magic - just like Christmas (streaming via Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play and YouTube)