THM Picks: Modern Holiday Classics

Some friends noted that, while my list of classic holiday films was all well and good, I was overlooking quite a few modern classics from my roundup! So to pick up where I left off, here are some modern holiday favorites that need to be on your viewing list this season:

Die Hard (1988)—How awkward could your estranged wife's office holiday party be?!?!?!?!?!

A Christmas Story (1983)—This quirky and endearing look at childhood in the 1940s initially bombed in theaters, but has become a cult classic ever since. Subtle and engaging performances make this film a timeless favorite.

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989)—Clark has worked hard all year, and just wants to give the entire Griswold family the Christmas they deserve! This is Chevy Chase at his best, with the kind of supporting cast you won't find anywhere else.

The Holiday (2006)—A gentle wink and nod to the craft of filmmaking, with an absolutely charming supporting performance by Eli Wallach, this movie shows us that sometimes we need to take a holiday from our comfort zones...and that it's definitely worth the trip!

Love Actually (2003)—An outstanding ensemble cast portrays a delightful array of characters with interconnected story lines, all leading up to the local school's Christmas Eve pageant. Love is found, love is lost, hearts are broken and mended again, and one thing remains clear through it all: love (not to mention Christmas) actually is all around!