We all know the debate about “Die Hard”. But there are plenty of other films that spark the same argument, “Is this actually a Christmas movie?” Here are 13 more:
1. Every “Harry Potter” movie (2001 – 2011). All the “Potter” flicks . . . with the possible exception of the last one . . . have some kind of yuletide vibe . . . or at least a wintry one.
2. “Batman Returns” (1992). One of the big set pieces is the lighting of the Gotham Christmas tree.
3. “Eyes Wide Shut” (1999). Even though it was released in July, it takes place over Christmas.
4. “Gremlins” (1984). This one has Christmas written all over it. And also little green, murderous demons.
5. “First Blood” (1982). The first of the “Rambo” films has a Christmas tree in the background of one scene. So . . . Christmas movie!!!
6. “Trading Places” (1983). There’s a Christmas party, and Dan Aykroyd as a drunken Santa waving a handgun. But it doesn’t end on December 25th. If it’s a Christmas movie, then it also qualifies as a New Year’s movie.
7. “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang” (2005). This one takes place during the Christmas season in L.A. And it was released in November.
8. “Edward Scissorhands” (1990). Kind of a no-brainer.
9. “Lethal Weapon” (1987). Another one of those action movies that HAPPENS to take place around Christmas.
10. “Rocky” (1976). This might be the greatest American holiday film of all time, because it includes Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. And also punching.
11. “Hook” (1991). The scenes in the real world, outside Neverland, are set at Christmas.
12. “Iron Man 3” (2013). The whole movie plays out around Christmas.
13. “The Nightmare Before Christmas” (1993). Is it a Christmas movie or a Halloween movie? Why not both?