Uncover the Jew's Perspective on Christmas Movies

How The Grinch Stole Christmas

Starting off, I watched the Jim Carrey version of "How The Grinch Stole Christmas." I was quite shocked to discover it was a musical! The story is cute with Cindy Lou Who being adorable and the Grinch being quite hilarious. However, for me, it was more of a nostalgia-driven movie. It didn't quite hit the mark in terms of being truly special. And as a kid, this might have given me some nightmares. It was an interesting experience, for sure.

Despite its popularity, this movie didn't quite resonate with me on a personal level. It's one of those that people hold dear to their hearts due to nostalgia, but for me, it was just an average viewing.

Love Actually

Even though I'm not a big fan of romance movies, I decided to give "Love Actually" a try. There's always so much buzz around this film, and I wanted to see what the fuss was all about.

The concept of "Love Actually" is quite interesting. Some parts, like the famous card scene, were really problematic. But my favorite storyline was definitely the one with Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, and the necklace. That was truly a gem and was done exceptionally well. The other storylines, however, were a bit forgettable. Overall, it's a unique movie that I can see why people love it.

Home Alone

Since I learned that Macaulay Culkin and Brenda Song are together, I've been dying to watch "Home Alone." And it's estimated to be one of the most popular Christmas movies, especially among millennials. So, I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.

My first thought was that these parents are really awful! But aside from that, I was obsessed with the vibes of the movie. Their house is adorable, the score by John Williams is exceptional, and it just exudes coziness. Macaulay Culkin truly makes this movie, and Kevin is the smartest child I've ever seen. I can see why it's so popular.

Home Alone 2

After watching the first "Home Alone," my boss recommended I watch the second one. As a NYC girl at heart, I was quite enticed by the setting.

But oh my goodness! These parents just keep getting worse! Losing a kid twice is unforgivable. And I was not prepared for Donald Trump to be in this movie! That was a real jumpscare. However, despite these flaws, "Home Alone 2" isn't bad. It gives the same positive vibes as the first movie, and the New York setting is awesome. I did get a bit bored by the end, though.

Elf

As a Will Ferrell fan, "Elf" was particularly exciting for me. People quote this movie all the time, and I didn't want to be left out.

This movie is the funniest one I've seen in a while. Buddy definitely makes it to the list of best movie characters. I was shocked to see blonde Zooey Deschanel, but her voice is great. Peter Dinklage's scene was cringeworthy, but in a good way. And that sugary pasta scene? It's a bit strange, but I can understand why people might find it appealing.

Christmas with the Kranks

I'd never heard of "Christmas with the Kranks" before, but once I saw the cast, I knew I had to watch it. Jamie Lee Curtis, Dan Aykroyd, Lynette from "Desperate Housewives," Shelby from "A Cinderella Story," and most importantly, DEWEY from "Malcolm in the Middle"! The plot is not only fun but also relatable for someone like me who doesn't celebrate Christmas.

During the tanning salon scene, I genuinely laughed out loud. The entire storyline is hilarious. I wasn't sure how it would end, but the ending was so cute and wholesome. It's a great movie that shows a different side of Christmas.

A Christmas Story

I've heard a lot about "A Christmas Story," but going in, I knew nothing except for the gun and the leg lamp. And let me tell you, my thoughts on this movie are quite mixed.

I think it's mostly the nostalgia that makes this movie popular. As for me, it was one of the slowest movies I've seen in a long time. I struggled to understand the plot, and it felt like a waste of time. I also felt bad for the mother, dealing with all that patriarchal nonsense. And the idea that a lamp could turn the entire neighborhood against someone is just ridiculous, especially in a kids' movie.

Our Little Secret

I was intrigued by "Our Little Secret," the new Netflix romcom with Lindsay Lohan and Ezra Fitz (Ian Harding). Their pairing was unexpected, and I wanted to see how it would play out.

This movie is a perfect example of why I have issues with many romance movies. The concept of sending partners to get a tree on their own is just weird and wouldn't happen in real life. The only part I really loved was the high scene and the fact that Carla from "Scrubs" and Mr. Duvall from "Mean Girls" were a couple. Overall, it was a bit of a disappointment.

The Santa Clause

The last movie I watched was "The Santa Clause." Going in blind, I had no expectations, and it turned out to be a wild ride.

Finally, a Christmas movie that starts on Christmas! I was sick of waiting for the holiday to arrive. This movie taught me that a good Christmas movie needs an adorable kid, and this one has a cutie with a bowl cut that's just too cute. The plot takes a crazy turn, and it's both cute and funny. It's original in its own way, but it also leaves you with a lot of questions.

After watching all these movies, it's time to reveal my favorites and least favorite. My favorite is "Elf," followed by "Home Alone," and my least favorite is "A Christmas Story." Overall, I can understand the appeal of these movies and how they make people excited for the holidays. Even if I don't fully share those feelings, I can appreciate the vibe.

What's your favorite Christmas movie? And do you agree with my ratings? Let me know in the comments below. Be nice, of course!