Festive films for older children.

 Hey readers, 

The holiday season is a magical time for families to come together, and watching festive films is one of the best ways to get into the spirit. 

While there are plenty of great holiday movies aimed at young kids, finding films that appeal to tweens and teens can be more challenging.

 However, there are several classic and contemporary festive films perfect for older children that celebrate the season

through warmth, humour, and positive themes.

1. A Christmas story. 

A Christmas classic that continues to delight both older kids and adults is the 1983 film A Christmas Story.

 Following the misadventures of young Ralphie in 1940s Indiana as he schemes to get his dream Christmas gift of a Red Ryder BB gun, this comic film captures the childhood excitement of Christmas mixed with hilarious mishaps. 

From getting his tongue stuck to a frozen flagpole to dealing with the neighbourhood bullies, older children will relate to Ralphie’s adventures and find the exaggerated humour thoroughly entertaining.

 The film also reminds viewers old and young to focus on family and finding joy in simple gifts rather than commercialism during the holidays.  

2. The nightmare before Christmas.

For children who prefer fantasy films, Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas from 1993 makes for ideal festive viewing.

 This clever stop-motion musical tells the story of Jack Skellington, the king of Halloween Town who accidentally stumbles into Christmas Town and tries to bring his ghoulish flair to Christmas celebrations with chaotic results. 

Older kids will appreciate the creativity of the film’s world and characters, the catchy musical numbers, and the ultimately warm-hearted message about finding the right balance between two different holidays.

 It also provides some lighter scares for children who enjoy thrills and chills.

3. Arthur Christmas. 

A more recent animated film is the 2015 comedy adventure Arthur Christmas. 

This humorous take on how Santa Claus delivers presents across the world in one night focuses on Santa’s younger son Arthur as he strives to complete an urgent Christmas mission. 

Older kids will laugh at Arthur’s antics, enjoy the high-tech Santa’s S-1 sleigh, and appreciate the themes of family togetherness and believing in each other. 

Fast-paced with gorgeous animation and plenty of heart, Arthur Christmas captures the excitement leading up to the holidays.

4. Miracle on 34th Street. 

For older kids who enjoy emotionally resonant stories, the 1994 remake of Miracle on 34th Street beautifully captures the spirit of Christmas. 

It focuses on a department store Santa who claims to be the real Santa Claus, befriending a young, skeptical girl.

 The intelligent dialogue, memorable characters, and charming romance make it thoroughly engaging for tweens and teens. 

It highlights the wonder of believing in Santa while teaching valuable lessons about faith and cynicism.

 

5. Jingle Jangle.

Finally, for musical fans, the 2020 Netflix film Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey makes for a joyous seasonal viewing experience for the whole family.

 A musical fantasy in the style of a Broadway show, it follows legendary toymaker Jeronicus Jangle, his resourceful granddaughter, and a magical invention just before Christmas in the lively town of Cobbleton. 

The film celebrates imagination, perseverance, family bonds, and reconciliation through catchy songs and splendid visuals. With its messages of hope and vibrant sense of fun, Jingle Jangle is a new festive favourite.

The holiday season offers the perfect opportunity for families to cosy up with hot cocoa and watch uplifting seasonal films together. 

For older children, movies like A Christmas Story, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Arthur Christmas, Miracle on 34th Street, and Jingle Jangle tell stories that will make them laugh, dream, and reflect on what matters most during the holidays - hope, family, and love.

 Cheers for reading X