Deck the Halls with Twinkly Lights and Big City Dreams: Must-Watch Christmas Movies Set in NYC
Ah, New York City at Christmas. Sparkling skyscrapers, bustling streets dusted with snow, and the promise of adventure (or maybe just a killer slice of pizza) around every corner. It's no wonder the Big Apple is a favorite setting for so many holiday films! So grab your eggnog, settle in, and get ready to channel your inner Elf (the movie, not the actual elf... although that's a fun option too) with this list of hilarious, heartwarming, and sometimes downright bizarre Christmas movies set in the city that never sleeps.
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| What Christmas Movies Are Set In New York |
Classics with Heart
- Miracle on 34th Street (1947): This heartwarming tale asks the age-old question: Is Santa real? And who better to play Kris Kringle than the legendary Edmund Gwenn? Bonus points for the iconic Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade scene.
- It Happened on 5th Avenue (1947): Glamorous department stores, witty banter, and a sprinkle of Christmas magic? Sign us up! This charming rom-com proves that even amidst the holiday rush, true love can blossom.
QuickTip: Repeat difficult lines until they’re clear.
Comedy Gold
- Elf (2003): Will Ferrell in tights. Need we say more? This laugh-out-loud comedy follows Buddy, a human raised by elves, on his hilarious quest to find his place in the concrete jungle. Packed with quotable lines and sugar-fueled mayhem, Elf is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992): Kevin McCallister is back, and this time he's trading the suburbs for the glitz and glamour (and danger!) of NYC. Prepare for hijinks at the Plaza Hotel, encounters with eccentric pigeons, and Macaulay Culkin's epic battle against the Sticky Bandits.
Romantic Encounters
QuickTip: Reading twice makes retention stronger.
- Serendipity (2001): This delightful rom-com explores the power of fate and missed connections, all set against the backdrop of a charming New York Christmas. Will Jonathan (John Cusack) and Sara (Kate Beckinsale) find their way back to each other amidst the hustle and bustle of the holiday season?
Bonus: Not-So-Traditional Christmas Cheer
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- Scrooged (1988): Bill Murray takes on the iconic role of Ebenezer Scrooge in this hilarious modern reimagining of A Christmas Carol. This twisted take on the classic tale features plenty of laughs and a healthy dose of New York City cynicism.
How to Choose Your Perfect NYC Christmas Movie?
Feeling overwhelmed by all the options? Here's a quick guide:
Tip: Focus on sections most relevant to you.
How to pick a movie that will make you laugh until you cry? Easy - Elf (or maybe Scrooged if you're feeling a little dark).
How to find a heartwarming classic with a touch of romance? It Happened on Fifth Avenue or Miracle on 34th Street are your best bets.
How to feel like you're wandering the magical streets of NYC during the holidays? Any of these movies will whisk you away to the festive atmosphere of the city!
QuickTip: Re-reading helps retention.
How to settle any arguments about the best NYC Christmas movie? There's no wrong answer, but Elf is objectively the funniest. Just sayin'.
How to make your NYC Christmas movie marathon even better? Stock up on popcorn, hot cocoa, and maybe a few slices of Buddy the Elf-approved Christmas pizza. Happy Holidays!
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