Everybody has one - sometimes more than one. What's your favourite Christmas movie?
At the top of many lists you'll find It's a Wonderful Life. George Bailey and the angel Clarence have captivated audiences for more than 60 years in what is often called one of the most inspirational movies ever made. Another perennial favourite is Miracle on 34th Street, where six-year-old Susan finds that there really is a Santa, and so do we.
Perhaps your favourite is Charles Dickens' The Christmas Carol, in which Scrooge is visited by the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future. It's been filmed many times and in many ways. Some people think the best version is the original, in black and white, with Alastair Sim, but George C. Scott's portrayal of Scrooge is also excellent.
Movie makers didn't stop there with interpreting this classic story. Bill Murray plays a more contemporary Scrooge in Scrooged.
And for even more fun, there's a Muppet Christmas Carol and an entertaining Christmas Carol musical version starring Kelsey Grammer.
Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without How the Grinch Stole Christmas. And don't forget Jimmy Durante's Frosty the Snowman and Burl Ives' classic retelling and singing of Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer. Who doesn't love the Charlie Brown Christmas, his little fir tree, and that great rendition of Hark! The Herald Angels Sing!? If you want more Christmas music in your movies, you can't go wrong with Bing Crosby and friends in Holiday Inn and White Christmas.
For something a little different, there's A Christmas Story where nine-year-old Ralphie, growing up in the 1940s, tries to convince everyone, including Santa, that a Red Rider BB gun is the perfect gift for him. The original and visually delightful Nightmare Before Christmas blends two favourite holidays.
If you're looking for something more serious, try Joyeux Noel, based on a true story about a First World War Christmas truce.
So, put up your feet and relax. Happy viewing.
