Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Ktulu Christmas Countdown #10


Ktulu Christmas Countdown Movie #10
Jingle All the Way (1996)

Arnold Schwarzenegger makes his Christmas film debut, in what would seem to be a throw-away film, yet the hilarity of Arnold and Simbad duking it out to get the hottest Christmas toy for their kids is beyond entertaining. This film has heartwarming themes, and truly is funny for viewers of all ages. It isn't anything groundbreaking, but if you've never seen this one before, I would certainly recommend giving it a watch.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Ktulu Christmas Countdown #11


Ktulu Christmas Countdown Movie #11

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Now we are starting to get into the meat of the countdown. There are no fillers, no people pleasers. This is where the ordering starts to matter to me. #11 is The Nightmare Before Christmas, one of Time Burtons many gothic masterpieces. This heartwarming family film combines some unique ideas, but Christmas spirit is at the heart of this film. And who can not love Jack?

Ktulu Christmas Countdown #12


Ktulu Christmas Countdown Movie #12

Polar Express (2004)

This is more out of respect and nostalgia for one of the greatest Christmas books of all time. Its not that the film isn't good, it just doesn't quite meet the books expectations. All of the voice actors, particularly Hanks, do a great job, and overall the movie does a good job using its animation to capture some of the magic of the book

Sunday, December 13, 2009

Ktulu Christmas Countdown #13


Ktulu Christmas Countdown Movie #13

Scrooged (1988)

A great comedy that is a refreshing blend of a classic story with comedy. The unique mixture isn't the only refreshing aspect as it is also unique to see this story adapted into modern times and its very real commentary on greed. Bill Murray is fantastic as always.

Saturday, December 12, 2009

Ktulu Christmas Countdown #14


Ktulu Christmas Countdown Movie #14

The Holiday (2006)

A hilarious comedy that is truly heartwarming, this is the perfect Christmas date flick. A great cast (with the exception of Jack Black although he does deliver a tolerable performance) the story between Jude Law and Cameron Diaz is particularly engaging. If you haven't seen this one yet, it is certainly worth the time to check out.

Friday, December 11, 2009

Ktulu Christmas Countdown #15


Ktulu Christmas Countdown Movie #15
The Family Stone (2007)

10 days into our countdown and we're going strong. The 11th entry isn't a pick-me-up but I wouldn't call it a downer. The Family Stone deals with very real family emotions and conflict, and isn't the first ensemble cast we've seen in a film on our countdown. This movie delivers laughs, tears and heartwarming moments. This is another good one for the family, but be careful with little ones as this does have a PG-13 rating.

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Ktulu Christmas Countdown #16



Ktulu Christmas Countdown Movie #16

It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

As of now, this looks to be the final Classic on the list, the king of all feel-good Christmas movies. James Stewart is phenomenal, as is the films uplifting plot, and unlike the previous entry, this one is perfect for all ages.

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Ktulu Christmas Countdown #17


Ktulu Christmas Countdown Movie #17

Love Actually (2003)

The first uber romantic comedy on the countdown, this film helps define "ensemble cast." Following the stories of countless characters of multiple ages, and showing how all of their lives, loves and Christmas stories intertwine makes for a fun watch. This is the perfect Christmas date movie. However, this one is not for the whole family, as it is an R rated film, although the content isn't anything excessively obscene. Hugh Grant's performance is worth noting.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Ktulu Christmas Countdown #18

Ktulu Christmas Countdown Movie (TV Show) #18

The Office "Yankee Swap" 2005

One of the greatest Christmas episodes of a television show ever made. During the thick of the Pam and Jim drama, this episode combines their plot line with the hilarity that ensues with the office learning the rules to the steal and swap style Christmas game.

Monday, December 7, 2009

Ktulu Christmas Countdown #19

Ktulu Christmas Countdown Movie #19

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)

The first claymation film on our list will be our introduction into the teens on the countdown. This made-for-TV movie from the 60s was brought about when stop animation with clay was all the rage. This twist on the classic song delivers laughs for people of all ages. In the same vein as a cartoon, the humor and plot line is rather short on intricacy and that is what makes this one so endearing. And who couldn't resist the cheap animation and effects...