There’s no question that the classic Christmas movies we get to enjoy again and again bring an unmatched measure of joy to the season. Movies like Charlie Brown Christmas, Home Alone, The Grinch and Frosty the Snowman are all great examples of these movies we love. Viewing these films once more allows us to be transported back to such a time of sweet innocence as we marinate in the beautiful nostalgia from bright and early Christmas mornings so many years ago. My personal favorite is the film Elf. 

Elf encompasses a variety of genres but is generally regarded as a rom-com. It follows the story of the peculiar elf named Buddy (Will Ferrell) who ventures off from Santa’s workshop to explore his new identity in the crazy world of NYC.

While this movie is my favorite, the comedic writing paired with the repeated starring of Will Ferrell in the newer movie, Spirited, reminded me of Elf more than I would have expected. This movie is a spin-off of the well-known tale A Christmas Carol, highlighting the path Clint Briggs (Ryan Reynolds) takes as he and the ghost of Christmas Present (Will Ferrell) work together to bring out the deeply buried good in him before the season ends. 

But, if these movies are so similar, which is better? The old or the new? Although Spirited may have a newer polish to it and appeal to more modern audiences, my original opinion remains the same. As I said before, watching movies that I grew up watching with my family at the same time each year, just makes me feel like I’m there again, with that same smile stretched across my face, while capturing a feeling of childlike wonder I can’t find anywhere else. That is why classic Christmas movies will never die!