Uncover the Animated Christmas Classics That Will Delight
12: 'Frosty The Snowman' (1969)
In this hand-drawn animated TV special, Jimmy Durante takes on the role of narrator and singer as we follow the story of Frosty (Jackie Vernon), a snowman who comes to life after a young girl named Karen (Suzanne Davidson) places a magician's hat on his head. Produced by Arthur Rankin Jr. and Jules Bass, the special also features the voices of Billy De Wolfe as Professor Hinkle and Paul Frees as Santa Claus. With a RT Critics Rating of 73% "fresh" based on 15 reviews, Frosty the Snowman is a jolly, happy sing-along that delights children with its crisp animation and endearing title character. His corncob pipe, button nose, and coal eyes make an indelible impression. Streaming options include Prime Video and Hulu, and it's available to rent on demand on various online platforms.Frosty the Snowman has become a beloved holiday tradition, with its catchy songs and charming story. It's a perfect addition to any Christmas movie marathon and brings a sense of magic to the holiday season.
The animation in Frosty the Snowman is truly remarkable, with each frame bringing the snowy world to life. The attention to detail and the vibrant colors make it a visual treat for viewers of all ages.
11. 'The Little Drummer Boy' (1968)
Based on Katherine Kennicott Davis' 1941 song, The Little Drummer Boy tells the story of an embittered, orphaned drummer boy named Aaron (Ted Eccles). As he witnesses the birth of Jesus, he learns to love again. Produced by Arthur Rankin Jr. and Jules Bass, this stop-motion animated TV special also features the voices of José Ferrer as Ben Haramad, Paul Frees as Aaron's father, and June Foray as Aaron's mother. Greer Garson narrates the story. With a RT Critics Rating of 75% "fresh" based on 12 reviews, The Little Drummer Boy is a mature addition to the Rankin-Bass catalog. Its powerful conclusion compensates for the dour storytelling and unpolished animation. Streaming on Prime Video and Hulu, and available to rent on demand on various online platforms.The Little Drummer Boy's message of love and redemption is truly touching. It shows that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope and the power to change.
The stop-motion animation in The Little Drummer Boy gives the characters a unique charm and brings the story to life. The attention to detail in the sets and costumes is impressive.
10. 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' (1965)
Based on Charles Schultz's comic strip creations, A Charlie Brown Christmas follows Charlie Brown (Peter Robbins) as he grows disenchanted with the commercialization of Christmas. Director Bill Melendez provides Snoopy's vocal sounds, and the voice cast includes Christopher Shea as Linus Van Pelt, Tracy Stafford as Lucy Van Pelt, Cathy Steinberg as Sally Brown, Chris Doran as Schroeder, Karen Mendelson as Patty, and Geoffrey Orstein as Pig-Pen. With a RT Critics' Rating of 86% "fresh" based on 21 reviews, this hand-drawn animated TV special is a holiday favorite. Streaming is available to rent on demand on AppleTV+ and Fubo.A Charlie Brown Christmas captures the essence of Christmas in a simple and heartfelt way. It reminds us of the true meaning of the holiday and the importance of family and friendship.
The non-professional voice cast adds to the charm of A Charlie Brown Christmas, giving the characters a unique personality. The simple yet expressive animation also enhances the overall experience.
9: 'The Year Without A Santa Claus' (1974)
In this stop-motion animated TV special, Mrs. Claus (Shirley Boothe) and elves Jingle (Bob McFadden) and Jangle (Bradley Bolke) try to convince Santa Claus (Mickey Rooney) to get back into his sleigh after he grows discouraged over people's disbelief in him. The cast also includes Dick Shawn as Snow Miser, George S. Irving as Heat Miser, Rhoda Mann as Mother Nature, Ron Marshall as Mr. Thistlewistle, Colin Duffy as Ignatius Thistlewistle, and Christine Winer as Blue Christmas Girl. With a RT Rating of 90% "fresh" based on 21 reviews, The Year Without a Santa Claus is a holiday classic full of unforgettable songs and characters. Streaming is available to rent on demand on AppleTV+.The story of The Year Without A Santa Claus is both heartwarming and entertaining. It shows the importance of believing in Santa Claus and the magic of Christmas.
The stop-motion animation in this special is top-notch, with each character and scene coming to life. The attention to detail in the costumes and sets is remarkable.
8: 'Santa Claus Is Coming To Town' (1970)
Fred Astaire voices a mailman who narrates the origin story of Kris Kringle/Santa Claus (Mickey Rooney) in this stop-motion animated TV special. It also features the voices of Keenan Wynn as Winter Warlock, Paul Frees as Burgermeister Meisterburger, Robie Lester as Miss Jessica, and Joan Garnder as Tanta Kringle. With a RT Critics Rating of 93% "fresh" based on 14 reviews, Santa Claus is Comin' to Town is a magical story told with charming wood-figure animation. Streaming on Prime Video and Hulu, and available to rent on demand on various online platforms.Santa Claus Is Coming To Town is a timeless classic that captures the spirit of Christmas. The music and animation combine to create a truly magical experience.
The characters in this special are lovable and memorable, with each one adding to the charm of the story. The attention to detail in the animation is outstanding.
7: 'Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer' (1964)
Featuring the music of Johnny Marks, including the title tune Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, this TV special follows a young reindeer (Billie Mae Richards) who is ostracized because of his red, shiny nose. Produced by Arthur Rankin Jr. and Jules Bass, it also features Burl Ives as the voice of Sam the Snowman and Paul Soles as Hermey. With a RT Critics Rating of 95% "fresh" based on 21 reviews, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is a yule-tide gem. Streaming is available to rent on demand on various online platforms.Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is a beloved holiday story that teaches the importance of acceptance and believing in oneself. The animation and music are both outstanding.
The characters in this special are vivid and engaging, with Rudolph's red nose being a standout feature. The stop-motion animation brings the North Pole to life.
6: 'Mickey's Christmas Carol' (1983)
This hand-drawn animated adaptation of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol features Mickey Mouse (voice of Wayne Allwine), Scrooge McDuck (Alan Young), Goofy (Hal Smith), and Jiminy Crickett (Eddie Carroll). With a RT Critics Rating of 100% "fresh" based on eight reviews, Mickey's Christmas Carol is a heartwarming tale. Streaming on Disney+ and available to rent on demand on various online platforms.Mickey's Christmas Carol is a wonderful adaptation of the classic story, with Mickey and his friends bringing the characters to life. It's a must-watch for Disney fans and Christmas lovers alike.
The animation in Mickey's Christmas Carol is beautiful, with each scene filled with detail and emotion. The voice acting is also top-notch, making the characters feel real.
5: 'Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas' (1966)
Based on Theodor Seuss Geisel's classic book, this hand-drawn animated special is narrated by Boris Karloff as The Grinch. It shows how a malcontent creature learns the true meaning of Christmas through the residents of Whoville and features Thurl Ravenscroft's classic tune You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch. With a RT Critics Rating of 100% based on 28 reviews, How the Grinch Stole Christmas has become a yuletide tradition. Streaming on Peacock and available to rent on demand on various online platforms.Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas is a timeless story that teaches the importance of kindness and generosity. The animation and music are both unforgettable.
The Grinch's transformation in this special is truly remarkable. It shows that even the most cynical person can learn to love and celebrate Christmas.
4: 'LEGO Star Wars Holiday Special' (2020)
This LEGO Star Wars Holiday Special focuses on the characters from the Star Wars sequel trilogy in building brick form. With a RT Critics Rating of 74% based on 58 reviews, it offers affectionate franchise callbacks and self-aware humor. Streaming on Disney+.The LEGO Star Wars Holiday Special is a fun and lighthearted addition to the Star Wars franchise. It combines the charm of LEGO with the excitement of the holiday season.
The use of LEGO to create the Star Wars characters is a unique and creative touch. It adds a new dimension to the familiar storylines and makes it accessible to a wider audience.
3: 'Arthur Christmas' (2011)
Aardman Animations takes the computer-animated route for this Christmas movie, following Santa's son, Arthur Claus (James McAvoy), as he tries to deliver a present to a young girl before Christmas morning. The film also features the voices of Jim Broadbent as Santa, Bill Nighy as Grandsanta, Hugh Laurie as Steve Claus, and Imelda Staunton as Mrs. Claus. With a RT Critics Rating of 92% based on 168 reviews, Arthur Christmas is a clever and earnest holiday film. Streaming on Paramount+ and available on demand on various online platforms.Arthur Christmas is a heartwarming story that shows the importance of family and the magic of Christmas. The animation is stunning and the characters are lovable.
The film's message of perseverance and determination is inspiring. It shows that even in the face of challenges, we can find a way to make Christmas special.
2: 'Klaus' (2019)
Set in the 19th century, Klaus focuses on the partnership between postman Jesper Johansen (Jason Schwartzman) and reclusive toymaker Klaus (J.K. Simmons). With a RT Critics Rating of 95% "fresh" based on 77 reviews, Klaus is an instant holiday classic. Streaming on Netflix.Klaus is a beautiful hand-drawn animated tale that combines humor and heart. The story of Jesper and Klaus's friendship is truly touching.
The animation in Klaus is breathtaking, with each frame filled with detail and emotion. The characters are well-developed and the story is engaging from start to finish.
1: Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Producer Tim Burton's fellow CalArts alum Henry Selick directs this stop-motion animated classic based on Burton's original poem. Set in the fantasy worlds of Halloween Town and Christmas Town, Jack Skellington (voice of Chris Sarandon) tries to merge the holidays together. Composer Danny Elfman voices Jack and also provides the voice of Barrel. With a RT Critics Rating of 95% "fresh" based on 107 reviews, The Nightmare Before Christmas is a stunningly original work of stop-motion animation. Streaming on Disney+ and available to rent on demand on various online platforms.Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas is a true masterpiece. The combination of Burton's dark and whimsical style with the magic of stop-motion animation is simply unforgettable.
The characters in this film are unique and memorable, with Jack Skellington being a standout. The attention to detail in the animation is remarkable, making every scene a visual delight.