Top 10 Films on TV this Christmas

What will you be watching?

10. Valiant

23rd December 2013, 6:15am – 7:25am

Channel 4

War films are a staple of Christmas and this animation telling the story of a team of brave carrier pigeons turns the genre on its head by treating them like a fully-fledged squadron. This is one for the early risers and will keep young children entertained while Mum and Dad get a few more minutes sleep.

The Main Reason to Watch: Tim Curry’s excellent vocal performance as Von Talon, the German Falcon played like a Luftwaffe pilot.

 

 9. The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe

24th December 2013, 1:30pm – 3:40pm

BBC2

The fantasy world of Narnia in constant winter was always going to appeal at Christmas and the appearance of Santa doesn’t hinder its appeal either. With solid performances by child stars, and good a vocal cast including Liam Neeson as Aslan, this is perfectly placed for those having a relaxing late lunch on Christmas Eve.

The Main Reason to Watch: The performance of James McAvoy who at that time wasn’t as big a Hollywood name but just a great actor embracing his hairy goat legs.

 

8. Chicken Run

25th December 2013, 11am – 12:20am

BBC1

Sitting watching The Great Escape is a Christmas tradition for many, but this year we suggest trying it with chickens. With the voices of Mel Gibson, Julia Sawalha and a host of British actors, this prison break story is perfect for those who have already opened their presents and are starting to enjoy the Christmas Dinner smell coming from the oven.

The Main Reason to Watch: It is The Great Escape with chickens, need we say more.

 

7. WALL-E

30th December 2013, 2:45pm – 4:15pm

BBC1

Being the last human on earth is a film setup well trodden, but this is the first for a robot character who actually leaves tracks. For those having a quiet day before the exertions of New Year’s Eve, this is perfect to relax to for couples, families and even those snuggled up in their bed and barely awake.

The Main Reason to Watch: For the wonderful love story between two machines and the aerial acrobatics in space.

 

6. White Christmas

23rd December 2013, 10:10am – 12:30pm

Channel 4

A cheesy Christmas musical that is on our list for one reason: joy. Some films last the test of time by being deep and psychological, but this film is not one of them. This film offers love and good old-fashioned entertainment for the build up to Christmas and is perfectly scheduled for people enjoying a relaxing morning. What more could people want? Read the full review!

The Main Reason to Watch: The old school song and dance numbers and the amazing lead duo of Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye.

 

5. Finding Nemo

24th December 2013, 5:55pm – 7:30pm

BBC1

As one of the top Pixar Films, finding Nemo is sure to be a hit over the Christmas period, especially for younger audiences. This aquatic smash hit sent ripples in the Box Office in 2003 and has firmly waterlogged its place as one of the all time top animated films. This will be a great family pleaser while settling down on Christmas Eve.

The Main Reason to Watch: Despite the heart-wrenching opening few scenes, Finding Nemo is a brilliant light-hearted film that you can watch over and over. Especially at Christmas time.

 

4. Up

28th December 2013, 6:50pm – 8:15pm

BBC1

Charming but light hearted kids films don’t get much better than this. With a heart breaking opening, a magnificent floating house and an action packed story this should be enough to keep any grumpy old man or eager cub scout occupied during the aftermath of Christmas. Just don’t let your kids near any balloons, as they’ll get ideas.

The Main Reason to Watch: Hilarious speaking dogs and a house that floats purely from balloon power should satisfy both kids and adults imaginations perfectly.

 

3. Love Actually

25th December 2013, 10:45pm – 1:10am

ITV1

Offering such a cheerful outlook on love and setting it at Christmas time is a sure fire way to make a top festive film. However, Love Actually offers something else on top of this with some brilliant witty humour and laugh-out-loud moments. Combined with an amazing range of acting talent, this will be one to watch, especially for couples settling down for the night on Christmas Day. Read the full review!

The Main Reason to Watch: The feel-good factor that Love Actually brings is enough to lift any Winter blues.

 

2. Scrooged

22nd December 2013, 4:30pm – 6:25pm

Channel 4

A revision of the famous story, A Christmas Carol, sees a miserable rich man haunted by ghosts on Christmas Eve. Bill Murray is in sublime form here cutting through the absurd fantasy story with a sharp wit and dry unforgivable tone. Murray’s version of Scrooge, Frank Cross, helps make a rare lighthearted Christmas film that isn’t perfectly merry, but has dark and rebellious undertones. If idyllic Christmas music and movies are starting to get on your nerves by the 22nd then this could be a great choice and just in time to eat food on your favourite tray.

The Main Reason to Watch: Funny, rude, Bill Murray’s in it. That should cover it.

 

1. The Muppet Christmas Carol

25th December 2013, 4:35 – 6:15pm

Channel 4

Topping our list is this Christmas must watch, with fun, frivolity and a furry frog this is surely entertainment for the whole family. A story of redemption and Christmas cheer mixed with a big helping of Muppet madness means that there are plenty of laughs, sadness, fear and even plenty of songs to make you smile this Christmas. This fits perfectly in the day for people who have a midday to early afternoon meal, as it’s on at that point where you can’t move from the third helping of trifle. Read the full review!

The Main Reason to Watch: The songs. They’ll get stuck in your head so you’ll be singing, “It’s in the singing of a street corner choir” for at least a week after.

 

Special Mention: Toy Story Franchise

23rd December 2013, 3:15pm – 4:30pm

24th December 2013, 3:40pm – 5:10pm

25th December 2013, 3:20pm – 5pm

BBC1

A special mention goes to this fantastic family friendly franchise. Following the story of Woody, Buzz and the rest of Andy’s toys through their lives with him and what happens when new toys come in, you find the people you were made with and what happens when he grows up. Split up over three days was going to make it more difficult to watch all the films but if you do have the time it is difintely worth it.

The Main Reason to Watch: It will bring up childhood memories of your favourite toys and the make you want those moment to last.