Watching movies is one of the many staples of the holiday celebration. From classics like “A Charlie Brown Christmas” to modern sensations like “The Polar Express,” winter films remain a popular way for students to unwind and relax during the winter break. For senior Bella Jackson, “The Grinch” stands out as one of her favorite Christmas movies.

“I love the Grinch, especially the animated one because I think it’s very funny and captures the essence of Christmas,” Jackson said. “The best part about holiday movies is that it makes everything feel whimsical and it feels nostalgic every time I watch it.”

While some students enjoy revisiting these winter classics, other students favor films that aren’t always fan-favorites. For senior Samantha Marquez, “Unaccompanied Minors” (2006) has unavoidable humor and charm that never ceases to amaze her.

“It’s such an underrated holiday movie and nobody ever talks about it, but it’s so funny and deep,” Marquez said “I also connected with that movie because I used to fly by myself a lot as between Venezuela and the United States during holidays.”

Winter break is one of the few times during the year that students can spend quality time with their family. Curling up with warm cocoa, bonding with family members, all while watching a nice movie is all part of the Christmas experience.

“It’s really fun to watch them because you can see your favorite actors in them and it’s a cliché thing,” Jackson said. “I always watch with my family, so that’s really nice.”

Whether it’s watching the Grinch or loving the holiday spirit in movies,  holiday movies remain enjoyable because of what it means to each person.

“On Christmas Eve, I bake cookies with my mom and my little sister every year while we watch polar express,” junior Courtney Otieno said.