7 Christian Christmas Movies to Enjoy Again and Again

The Nativity Story

The Nativity Story is a beautifully made, highly authentic film about the birth of Jesus Christ. Viewers get to see what everyday life was like in Nazareth, from the stone houses to the people working in the fields, making clothing, and tending animals. The costumes are striking and much more realistic than a lot of Hollywood Bible epics from the 50s and 60s.

In every respect, The Nativity Story is a sensitive, loving treatment of the Bible's Christmas Story. It is number one on this list for its superior quality and enduring holiday appeal. The film has received the highest rating (5) from The Dove Foundation and is sure to remain a family Christmas classic for years to come.

The Ultimate Gift

An extremely wise and wealthy grandfather gives his shallow, spoiled grandson the ultimate inheritance. In The Ultimate Gift, Jason Stevens, played by Drew Fuller, learns there's more to life than money. Instead of the expected cash windfall, "Red" Stevens (James Garner) has prepared 12 gifts to be given to his grandson after his death. The series of gifts, leading up to the ultimate gift, takes Jason on a challenging journey of personal growth and self-discovery. With its aim toward inspiration and spiritual entertainment, this film hits the ultimate target.

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe

Four young adventurers—Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter—while playing ‘hide-and-seek’ in the country home of an old professor, stumble upon a magical wardrobe that transports them to a place they never dreamed existed. Stepping through the wardrobe door, they depart World War II London for the spectacular "alternate universe" known as Narnia—an enchanted realm inhabited by talking animals and mythological creatures.

Narnia reflects the struggles, hopes, and moral dilemmas of our own lives, and this motion picture re-creation faithfully conveys the original story's eternal symbolism and biblical themes. Many lessons of faith are found in this magical story. Viewers will discover that Narnia, a picture of the spiritual kingdom, is much more than just fantasy or fairy tale. The Chronicles of Narnia is one of the most entertaining and inspiring family films ever produced, however, it is not recommended for children under the age of 12.

The Polar Express

Some say this film is destined to become It's A Wonderful Life of this generation. The Polar Express is a touching story about a boy who has started to "grow out of" his belief in Santa until one magical Christmas Eve when he boards the train that takes him to the North Pole.

Produced using a technique called "performance capture," which accurately translates live performances into all-digital characters, the animation is so lifelike that it's almost eerie. Based on Chris Van Allsburg's children's book bearing the same name, this story is already a modern-day holiday classic.

The Muppet Christmas Carol

This movie is pure holiday fun, muppet style. In his PluggedInOnline review, Bob Smithouser said, "In 1993, Charles Dickens must have been rolling in his grave ... with laughter. That's when Walt Disney Studios and Jim Henson Productions released The Muppet Christmas Carol, a song-filled celebration of kindness and virtue. In fact, Dickens' classic tale of a miser's redemption has never featured more warmth, wit or off-the-wall characters."

Most Christian families would agree with this assessment. Clever, amusing, appropriate for almost all age levels, and packed with fantastic moral lessons, The Muppet Christmas Carol, is not only a tale of God's love and redemption but perhaps the best muppet movie ever made.

Chasing the Star

Chasing the Star is based on a historical fiction account of three Wise Men, or Magi, who are on a mission to find and worship the Messiah. Through their personal struggles, challenging journey, and life-altering spiritual transformation, the three Magi encounter their true purpose in life.

While Chasing the Star is not appropriate for young children, older kids and adults will appreciate the imaginative story-telling, absorbing plot, and formidable acting. The film has received a 5 rating by The Dove Foundation for faith and integrity.

The Note

While investigating a deadly plane crash, a newspaper reporter recovers a hurriedly written note left behind by one of the crash victims. With her life about to be forever changed, journalist Peyton MacGruder (Genie Francis) sets out on an emotional journey determined to find the note's intended recipient and deliver the heartfelt message in time for Christmas.

Based on Christian writer Angela Hunt's novel by the same name, this touching drama ranked 3rd in all-time ratings as a Hallmark Channel Original Movie. The Note has also been awarded a 4-Dove family rating by The Dove Foundation. If you've forgotten that miracles still come true, this story offers a warm and hope-filled reminder.