Top Films to Bond with Friends and Family in the New Year

Amidst the darkest of times, the New Year has the power to elicit joy and optimism for many. Forgetting your troubles becomes simpler when you’re gathering together. The initial days of January bring relatives close as they energetically embrace a new beginning. To savor more moments together as a family during any remaining time off, why not prolong the joy and unity a bit further?

Christmas movies, charming throughout the year, hold a special charm in the winter. With their heart-warming scenes and delightful conclusions, they are perfect for cozying up on the couch with those you care about. In this compilation, we present some classic favorites along with a couple of new films to enjoy with your loved ones.

Little Women

This 1994 adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s renowned children’s novel narrates the tale of the March sisters. The story starts with the four distinctly unique sisters, Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy, at home while their father is away battling in the American Civil War.

They write and perform a small homemade play for Christmas and perform acts of kindness, such as sharing their Christmas breakfast with a family in need. Directed by Gillian Armstrong, the film stars Winona Ryder and Christian Bale in lead roles.

The novel was also recreated into a successful 2019 film featuring Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, and Timothée Chalamet portraying the central characters. Both versions are wonderful choices for a homely, coming-of-age film with historical elements.

Jingle All the Way

This comedic film, featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger, debuted in 1996. It touches on the common issue of toys selling out quickly before Christmas, leading to parents scrambling to find gifts. The plot revolves around two fathers seeking a Turbo-Man figure for their sons. Schwarzenegger plays a busy father who fails to spend enough time with his family.
He forgets to purchase the action figure until Christmas Eve arrives, forcing him to embark on a last-minute quest to find the toy, only to realize it’s sold out everywhere. The movie humorously depicts his desperate attempts to secure the toy.

Home Alone

Home Alone requires no introduction. This timeless family film has been beloved since its release and continues to be cherished across generations. Directed by Chris Columbus, the film premiered in 1990.

It stars Macaulay Culkin as Kevin, a young boy inadvertently left behind when his extended family departs for Christmas in Paris. Kevin initially revels in his newfound freedom but prepares for a confrontation when he discovers that burglars are targeting his home.

Ocean’s 11

If you wish to take a break from the Christmas theme, consider watching the entertaining heist movie, Ocean’s 11. Released in 2001 and directed by Steven Soderbergh, the film features George Clooney, Matt Damon, Brad Pitt, and other prominent actors as a group of con artists. 

The group comes together to plot a heist aimed at three major casinos. For those who enjoy the thrill of gambling at a trusted online casino Malaysia and wish to see some real casino action, this movie is a great pick.

Holidate

Let’s shift to some newer films still being evaluated by audiences. Holidate, released in October 2020 and directed by John Whitesell, falls into this category.

Starring Emma Roberts and Luke Bracey, the story follows two single individuals who become each other’s “holidate” to avoid the judgments from family and society. They become friends who meet on holidays, pretending to be each other’s dates, leading to expected romantic comedy twists.

Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey

Another Christmas movie from 2020, Jingle Jangle features Forest Whitaker and Madalen Mills. Directed by David E. Talbert, the film tells the tale of a granddaughter who brings a positive transformation to an old toymaker’s life.
Wrapping Up

The number of films released toward the end of the year seems endless. They often follow similar motifs and narratives but still captivate audiences.

The best part about these films, enjoyed with family and friends during and after Christmas, is the happiness and contentment they bring to viewers. This January, pick one of your cherished classics or explore something new and enjoy the experience.