Last week, I suggested five books for Advent here. Today, I recommend six movies with a meaningful message to prepare us for Christmas. I hope you enjoy! If there is a movie you recommend, please comment below. Each movie will be coupled with its official movie trailer. Recommendation #1 will surprise you!

#6 The Polar Express (2004) Rating: G Genre: Family/Adventure

Along with Recommendation #5, The Polar Express is celebrating 20 years this holiday! The music and cinema make this music magical. I have grown to love trains especially during the holidays. Trains bring memories of my step grandfather. He loved setting up his G scale train under the Christmas Tree.

This movie reminds the viewer of the magic of Christmas. It evokes the sounds of the symphony during the holidays with its beautiful brass arrangements. These experiences are all rooted in wonder and the gift of believing. A classic that has stood the test of these 20 years!

#5 Christmas with the Kranks (2004) Rating: PG Genre: Family Comedy

The Kranks decide to give up Christmas, but their daughter’s surprise return for the holidays makes them reconsider the choice. It is a story of laughs and how a neighborhood community comes together to celebrate long standing traditions at Christmas. It celebrates the merging of a new family. They gather to sing around the living room at the movie’s end.

#4 The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) Rating: PG-13 Genre: Family/Musical

Two years before this movie’s release, Jim Henson, the creator ad main performer of the the Muppets, died suddenly. The world of the Muppets was navigating its way forward after his death. This is where the journey took them.

There have been many renditions of this timeless story of Ebenezer Scrooge. This version is my favorite! It places the Muppets in this timeless story in an appealing manner.

Gonzo is Charles Dickens accompanied with Rizzo the Rat. Gonzo takes us through Scrooge’s journeys with the ghosts of Christmas. It is a celebration of life and all that is important this time of the year. It is definitely a Henson tribute!

#3 The Nativity Story (2006) Rating: PG Genre: Family/Romance

There are many versions of the Incarnation. Many of them have beautiful representations of the central event of human history. This movie captures my heart because it gives insight to Joseph, the foster father of Jesus.

The movie shows how Joseph plays his quiet, steadfast, and faith-filled role in the holy family. He was protector and provider. There are beautiful moments we see the deep love Joseph has for Mary. There is a particular scene that truly highlights Joseph as the Terror of Demons. A must watch!

#2 Family Man (2000) Rating: PG-13 Genre: Comedy/Romance

A movie depicting the life Nicholas Cage’s character and his alternate reality. His life unfolds if he did not choose his high-powered New York career. He is a family man. A beautiful reminder of the importance of family.

#1 Gran Torino Rating: R Genre: Thriller/Action

This movie definitely has no Christmas vibe to it. Christmas is packed with redemption, mercy, and love. These themes are woven into this masterpiece as Walt finds meaning in his life after the death of his wife. Thao Vang Lor enters Walt’s life and their evolving relationship tells a story of mercy and forgiveness. These are truths we contemplate with the coming of Christ at Christmas.