At The Movies

A Charlie Brown Christmas Age Rating: TV-G Runtime: 25 minutes Studio: Lee Mendelson Film Productions / Bill Melendez Productions Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Peanuts Franchise Position: 1 Charlie Brown searches for the true meaning of Christmas amid the commercialization of the holiday. Ratings: My Rating: 8.9 The Dove Foundation: TV-G IMDb: 8.3 Rotten Tomatoes: 92% Metacritic: N/A TMDb: 8.0 Plot Summary: In this classic animated special, Charlie Brown becomes disillusioned with the commercial aspects of Christmas. With the help of his friends, including Linus and Lucy, he discovers that the true meaning of the holiday is about love, friendship, and the birth of Christ. From selecting a humble Christmas tree to directing a school play, the story combines humor, heart, and timeless holiday lessons. Critics Review: Critics praise the special for its simple yet profound storytelling, iconic jazz score by Vince Guaraldi, and enduring charm. Its themes of authenticity versus...

The Grinch Musical: The Story of How the Grinch Stole Christmas Runtime: 90 minutes Studio: CBS, Dr. Seuss Enterprises Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Grinch Franchise Position: 6 Based on: How the Grinch Stole Christmas! book by Dr. Seuss A live musical adaptation of the classic Dr. Seuss tale, following the Grinch’s attempt to steal Christmas from the Whos and his eventual heartwarming redemption. Ratings: My Rating: 7.2/10 The Dove Foundation: TV-PG IMDb: 6.7/10 Rotten Tomatoes: N/A Metacritic: N/A TMDb: 7.1/10 Plot Summary: The Grinch, living atop Mount Crumpit, despises the festive Whos of Whoville and plans to ruin their Christmas. Through song, dance, and theatrical flair, the Whos’ joy and community spirit ultimately teach him lessons about kindness, generosity, and love, resulting in the Grinch’s transformation and the celebration of Christmas. Critics Review: Critics praised the musical numbers, live performances, and creative staging. While some noted limitations...

The Grinch Runtime: 86 minutes Studio: Illumination Entertainment, Universal Pictures Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Grinch Franchise Position: 5 Based on: How the Grinch Stole Christmas! book by Dr. Seuss The Grinch, a grumpy recluse, plans to ruin Christmas for the cheerful Whos of Whoville but discovers the true spirit of the holiday through unexpected friendship and community. Ratings: My Rating: 7.2/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.3/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 88% Audience Metacritic: 55/100 (converted to 5.5/10) TMDb: 6.9/10 Plot Summary: Living on Mount Crumpit, the Grinch detests the Whos’ Christmas celebrations and schemes to steal all their gifts and decorations. His plan is thwarted when the Whos show joy and generosity despite his actions, teaching him lessons about kindness, love, and the meaning of Christmas. The Grinch’s heart grows, and he returns the stolen items, joining the Whos in celebration. Critics Review: Critics praised the film’s animation quality, vis...

Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Runtime: 104 minutes Studio: Imagine Entertainment, Universal Pictures Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Grinch Franchise Position: 4 Based on: How the Grinch Stole Christmas! book by Dr. Seuss The Grinch, a bitter and reclusive creature, plots to steal Christmas from the Whos of Whoville but ultimately learns the true meaning of the holiday. Ratings: My Rating: 7.3/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.8/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 81% Audience Metacritic: 56/100 (converted to 5.6/10) TMDb: 7.0/10 Plot Summary: Living alone atop Mount Crumpit, the Grinch despises the joy of Christmas in Whoville. He devises a plan to steal presents, decorations, and food, disguising himself as Santa Claus. However, the Whos celebrate Christmas despite his efforts, teaching the Grinch lessons about love, generosity, and community. Over time, his heart grows, and he returns all the stolen items, joining the Whos in celebration. Critics Review: Critics praised Ji...

How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Runtime: 26 minutes Studio: MGM Television, Chuck Jones Productions Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Grinch Franchise Position: 1 Based on: How the Grinch Stole Christmas! book by Dr. Seuss The Grinch, a grouchy, green recluse, plots to steal Christmas from the Whos of Whoville, only to discover the true meaning of the holiday. Ratings: My Rating: 8.0/10 The Dove Foundation: Approved IMDb: 8.0/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 90% Audience Metacritic: N/A TMDb: 8.1/10 Plot Summary: In Whoville, the joyful preparations for Christmas anger the Grinch, who lives alone on Mount Crumpit. Disguised as Santa Claus, he steals presents, decorations, and food from the Whos’ homes. However, the Whos celebrate Christmas regardless of material gifts, teaching the Grinch a lesson about love, generosity, and the holiday spirit. His heart grows three sizes, and he returns everything he stole, joining the Whos in celebration. Critics Review: The special is celebrated for it...

Ernest Saves Christmas Runtime: 92 minutes Studio: Touchstone Pictures, Emshell Producers Group Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Ernest Franchise Position: 2 When Santa Claus decides to retire, Ernest P. Worrell is enlisted to find a replacement and help save Christmas, navigating comedic mishaps and holiday chaos along the way. Ratings: My Rating: 7.4/10 The Dove Foundation: Not Rated IMDb: 5.5/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 48% Audience / 30% Critics Metacritic: 50/100 TMDb: 6.1/10 Plot Summary: Ernest, a well-meaning but accident-prone man, becomes involved in a holiday adventure when Santa Claus chooses him to help find his successor. Along the way, Ernest encounters a young orphan, deals with holiday-related challenges, and works to ensure Christmas is celebrated properly. His bumbling nature leads to numerous comedic situations, but his good heart shines through. Critics Review: Ernest Saves Christmas received mixed reviews. Critics enjoyed Jim Varney's comedic performance, t...

A Very Brady Christmas Runtime: 125 minutes Studio: Paramount Television Distributor: CBS Country of Origin: United States Franchise: The Brady Bunch Franchise Position: 6 A holiday television film bringing the Brady family back together for Christmas, showing the siblings, their spouses, and children navigating family tensions, misunderstandings, and festive celebrations. Ratings: My Rating: 7.5/10 IMDb: 6.4/10 Rotten Tomatoes: Not Available Metacritic: Not Available TMDb: 6.5/10 Plot Summary: The Brady children reunite for Christmas at the family home. Old rivalries and misunderstandings surface, but through holiday spirit, love, and cooperation, the family overcomes conflicts and celebrates together. Critics Review: The special was warmly received by fans for its nostalgic appeal and wholesome family storytelling. Some critics noted its predictable plot but praised the performances and holiday charm. Christian Perspective: The film highlights the importance of family unity, forgiven...

The Bishop’s Wife Runtime: 116 minutes Studio: RKO Radio Pictures Country of Origin: United States Franchise: N/A Franchise Position: N/A An angel helps a bishop realize the importance of love, faith, and family during a time of personal and professional struggle. Ratings: My Rating: 7.8/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 7.7/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 95% (Critics), 90% (Audience) Metacritic: N/A TMDb: 7.8/10 Plot Summary: Bishop Henry Brougham struggles with his career ambitions and personal life while planning a new cathedral. An angel, Dudley, appears to guide him, helping him reconnect with his wife and rediscover the true meaning of faith, love, and service. The story blends charm, romance, and gentle humor with spiritual insight. Critics Review: Critics praised the performances, particularly Cary Grant and Loretta Young, and the film’s heartwarming story. The angelic theme and sophisticated storytelling were highlighted as timeless qualities, earning acclaim as a holiday classic. Christi...

Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas Runtime: 74 minutes Studio: Walt Disney Animation Studios Franchise: Beauty and the Beast Franchise Position: 2 A festive tale of love, hope, and the magic of Christmas within the Beast’s castle. Ratings: My Rating: 7.2/10 The Dove Foundation: G IMDb: 6.9/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 63% Audience Metacritic: 70/100 TMDb: 7.0/10 Plot Summary: Set during the events of the original Beauty and the Beast, this direct-to-video sequel explores Belle’s efforts to bring holiday cheer to the castle despite the lingering sadness and curse. An embittered former servant seeks to sabotage the festivities, but through the spirit of Christmas and acts of kindness, Belle inspires the castle’s enchanted inhabitants to embrace joy, forgiveness, and community. Themes of hope, transformation, and love underscore the story. Critics Review: Critics considered The Enchanted Christmas charming but not as groundbreaking as the original. The animation was praised for maintain...

A Garfield Christmas Special Runtime: 24 minutes Rating: G Release Date: December 21, 1987 Studio: Mendelson/Melendez Productions Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 7th TV special Runtime in minutes: 24 Tagline: A holiday filled with warmth and family. Ratings My rating: 8.4/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: N/A Rotten Tomatoes rating: N/A Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary Garfield and Jon visit Jon’s family for Christmas. Garfield experiences the true spirit of the holiday through acts of generosity, love, and family unity. Critics Review Widely regarded as one of the best Christmas specials, praised for warmth and heartfelt story. Christian Perspective Strongly aligned with Christian values about family, charity, and gratitude. Family Friendliness Perfect family viewing for the Christmas season.

All I Want for Christmas Runtime: 90 minutes Rating: PG Studio: New Line Cinema Franchise: None Franchise Position: N/A Tagline: “They just want one thing for Christmas... each other.” Trailer Link :  Cast link:   Ratings My Rating: 7/10 Dove Foundation Rating: Family Approved  IMDb Rating : 6.2/10  Rotten Tomatoes : 50%  Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary All I Want for Christmas is a heartwarming holiday comedy about two siblings, Ethan and Hallie, who want their divorced parents to reunite for Christmas. To make their wish come true, the children concoct a plan full of mischief and holiday cheer, leading to humorous and touching moments. The film explores themes of family, love, forgiveness, and the true spirit of Christmas. Critics Review Critics gave mixed reviews, appreciating the film’s charm and the performances of the young leads, but some found it predictable and overly sentimental. The movie delivers a feel-good holiday experience with enough humor and war...

The Christmas Lodge (2011), TV-G, 1 hr 26 min Franchise: Thomas Kinkade Franchise #: 1 (Release Order: First in a series of Kinkade-inspired films) Tagline: Where a heartwarming past meets a hopeful future. Main Cast Erin Karpluk as Mary Tobin Michael Shanks as Jack Rand Rukiya Bernard as Charlene Rebecca Toolan as Grandma Colleen Winton as Betty Tobin Peter Benson as Kent Tobin Shauna Johannesen as Catherine Tobin John Innes as Grandpa Victoria Bidewell as Sandra Jeffrey Ballard as Thomas Madeline Carroll as Young Mary (flashback) Reviews Synopsis Mary, a career-focused woman, takes a trip to the mountains and stumbles upon the Christmas Lodge—a place filled with childhood memories. When she finds it in disrepair, she sets her heart on restoring it to its former glory. Along the way, she reconnects with her faith, her family, and a childhood friend who just might be more than that now. Overview This is a sweet, old-fashioned Christmas film—think cozy sweaters, snowy forests, and a str...

Overview The Nativity Story is a calm, serious retelling of the Christmas story, directed by Catherine Hardwicke. It stars Keisha Castle-Hughes as Mary and Oscar Isaac as Joseph, and it follows their tough but meaningful journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Along the way, it shows the political tension with King Herod, Mary’s quiet strength, and how prophecy unfolds right before their eyes. The movie plays it straight—very respectful, clean, and full of faith. It’s a great choice for Christian families, especially around Christmas. It’s not a flashy blockbuster, so some people might find the pacing a bit slow or the emotions a little muted—but that also makes it feel reverent and real. There’s a quiet beauty in how it handles things like trust, obedience, and spiritual calling. Critics had mixed feelings—many appreciated the intent and performances, but wished it had more dramatic punch. Still, for faith-based viewers or anyone looking to focus on the heart of the Christmas story, it’s ...