The Chronicles of an Egotistical, yet Sensible Guy: It's Beginning to Look a lot like Christmas: Christmas Movie List

It's that time of the year. December has arrived and with it, brings the joys of Christmas. The holiday has always held a special place in my heart as it does for many of us. When I think of Christmas growing up, I think of sitting in my living room by the beautiful Christmas tree that my family are I decorated together. I would sit there and listen to the Chipmunk's Christmas album, on my toy record player and just anticipate all the great presents that were hopefully awaiting me come Christmas morning. On Christmas Eve night, before going to bed, my siblings and I would always leave out cookies and milk for when Santa stopped by. Trying to sleep that night was always nearly impossible knowing the joys that awaited when we woke Christmas morning.

Christmas has changed over the years. We no longer leave cookies for Santa. I no longer listen to the Chipmunk's Christmas album and our family doesn't decorate the tree together either. Traditions have come and gone. But the meaning of what Christmas is, for me, has changed. It has become less about presents and more about family. Christmas reaffirms what's most important in life: Spending time and appreciating the people you love.

You all know who you are.

Here are the movies Liz and I will watch this year:
note: Why? Because it wouldn't be Christmas without them.

It's A Wonderful Life DIRECTED BY: FRANK CAPRA

Starring James Stewart as George Bailey, a man who loses all hope until he's shown what life would be like without him. It's A Wonderful Life is perhaps, the greatest Christmas movie ever made.

A Christmas Story DIRECTED BY: BOB BLARK

A Christmas Story brilliantly captures what Christmas is like growing up in the Midwest. Essential viewing.

Home Alone DIRECTED BY: CHRIS COLUMBUS

Macaulay Culkin plays a brat named Kevin who takes his family for granted until they're gone. A film with great gags and a tremendous amount of heart.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone DIRECTED BY: CHRIS COLUMBUS

This film was my first exposure to the Harry Potter universe and I fell in love instantly. Chris Columbus faithfully adapted the source material and Harry Potter has become synonymous with Christmas for me, thanks to its November release. Potter and Christmas just feels right.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets DIRECTED BY: CHRIS COLUMBUS

Another great adaptation that captures the essence of its source material. Chris Columbus was flawless with his Potter work, in my eyes.

The Muppet Christmas Carol DIRECTED BY: BRIAN HENSON

The Muppets and Christmas go hand in hand as this particular adaptation of the classic tale is just pure holiday joy.

Love Actually DIRECTED BY: RICHARD CURTIS

This has quickly become a Christmas classic as it portrays the mainly kinds of loves that fill this world. A truly wonderful film that will leave you happy as can be.

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation DIRECTED BY: JEREMIAH S. CHECHIK

A ridiculously hilarious holiday classic featuring the comedic genius of Chevy Chase and Randy Quaid among many many others. Great cast and a great Christmas film.