Source: IMDB.com

Something odd appears to be happening with our cinematic joys. We mention the word “holiday classic” and we’re talking about “The Grinch” with Jim Carrey, not the animated original. We discuss “Miracle on 34th Street” and some refer to BOTH versions. Blasphemy.

There are classic holiday movies that are must-sees for all who celebrate the season. Whether you watch it on your laptop, iPod or flat-screen, state-of-the-art TV, you can’t miss these delights.

I’ve listed them below. I attempted to list the top 10 in order, but after a while, I felt like I was ranking my children. Who could really determine if “It’s a Wonderful Life” is better than “Holiday Inn?” Not I.

1. White Christmas (1954)
2. Holiday Inn (1943)
3. Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
4. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)
   
5. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
6. A Christmas Carol (1938)
7. The Bishop’s Wife (1947)
   
8. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966)
9. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
   
10. Frosty the Snowman (1969)

It was pointed out to me by a non-charitable source that the most recent movie is dated 1969.

I know.

I thought about taking it off the list as one has to invest time to becoming a classic, but Jimmy Durante was the narrator, which helps bump it into the tenth place.

Also, note: the original “A Christmas Carol” is slightly scary for small children. Who knew it would give the niece a nightmare? Apparently, I’m no longer the “favorite aunt.” And “tough love” is no longer a term for describing what occurs when an elderly relative [me] says you must watch the entire movie AND LIKE IT.

Finally, I must admit that all of these are decidedly aimed at Christmas. Please add your selections in the comments.