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Trojans' Top Picks: Favorite Holiday Movies Revealed

2024-12-06

If there’s one thing that truly defines the Trojan spirit, it’s the love for tradition. And when it comes to finding that special touch of joy that awaits us at the end of this semester, few things can compare to a good holiday movie. From the timeless charm of childhood classics like “Home Alone” to the adrenaline-pumping action of “Die Hard,” there’s a film out there to suit every taste. In the land of Los Angeles, where film culture thrives, holiday films hold a special place. Special holiday film screenings are popping up all over town, with a festival kicking off on December 13th in North Hollywood. Closer to home, on our very campus, we decided to ask the Trojans themselves about their personal favorites.

Uncover the Trojan's Favorite Holiday Movies

Caroline Skok's Choice: "Elf"

For Caroline Skok, a sophomore Annenberg communications student, “Elf” holds a special place. She shared, “I think my favorite holiday movie would be ‘Elf’, just because I’ve watched it so many times and I still laugh. It’s a wonderful classic that’s perfect for watching with friends and family. The humor and heart of the movie never get old.” This film has become a staple in her holiday season, bringing joy and laughter every time.

Viangelly Peña's Nostalgia: "Home Alone 2"

Public relations student Viangelly Peña has a soft spot for the “Home Alone” series, with “Home Alone 2” being her absolute favorite. She reminisced, “My favorite holiday movie has to be the ‘Home Alone’ Series, but particularly ‘Home Alone 2′ just because it’s nostalgic for me. I was born and raised in New York and I grew up watching it a lot. It brings back so many memories of my childhood holidays.” This movie holds a special connection to her past and adds to the holiday spirit.

Sarai Mata's Childhood Memories: "Barbie in the Nutcracker"

Sophomore Sarai Mata, also a public relations student, finds her holiday joy in “Barbie in the Nutcracker”. She said, “My favorite holiday movie is probably Barbie’s The Nutcracker (’Barbie in the Nutcracker’). I always love the ballet, and it just always puts me in the holiday spirit with the music and everything. And it’s just a very feel-good movie that just makes you fall in love with the music. It takes me back to those innocent childhood days.” This movie evokes a sense of nostalgia and warmth.

Jim Yoder's Classic Picks: "It Happened on 5th Avenue" and "Love Actually"

Annenberg Media Center facilities manager Jim Yoder has a penchant for the classics. He said, “‘It Happened on 5th Avenue’ and ‘Love Actually’. ‘It Happened on 5th Avenue’ speaks to…. wanting to be richer and then realizing how good it is to help somebody that needs help. It shows the true essence of the holiday season. ‘Love Actually,’ just the greatest Christmas movie ever made. It captures the magic and love of the holidays in a way that’s truly unforgettable.” These films have left a lasting impact on him.Regardless of which movies make it onto your “recommended-to-watch” list or what traditions define your holiday, one thing is for sure – we can’t wait for finals season to be over. Then, we can truly immerse ourselves in the world of holiday movies and let the good times roll.