As we close out the year, we wanted to put together a list of our top five favorite films that we all watch continuously during the holiday season. See you in 2020!

Die Hard (1988) - Michael Kamen

The musical identity for the holiday classic Die Hard combines Beethoven’s 9th Symphony, classic Christmas bells, and pop Christmas standard “Winter Wonderland.” Composer Michael Kamen’s use of sleigh bells in several cues really settles it, Die Hard is a Christmas movie for the ages!

Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) - Danny Elfman

Although some might say that The Nightmare Before Christmas is more of a Halloween movie, we think it sits firmly in the Christmas category. Composer Danny Elfman worked with producer Tim Burton on this stop-motion musical that captured the spirit of classic Christmas stop-motion cartoons, while staying true to Burton’s love of all things spooky. 

How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) - James Horner

Dr. Seuss did not live to see one of his most beloved books turned into a blockbuster film starring incomparable comedian Jim Carrey, but we think he would have been happy with the result. His amazing imagination and iconic drawings rendered a film that looks like no other, and James Horner’s score brings the whimsy of Whoville to life. 

The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) - Miles Goodman

This retelling of the classic Dickensian tale A Muppet Christmas Carol was scored by Miles Goodman, with songs by Paul Williams. It is a joyful romp, even in its darker moments, with an injection of the classic Muppet humor. Though the fourth theatrical film to feature the Muppets, this was the first production following the death of Jim Henson. 

The Polar Express (2004) - Alan Silvestri

Based on Chris Van Allsburg’s beloved 1985 children’s book, The Polar Express is the first all-digital capture film, creating a unique and beautiful look unlike any other holiday film. Alan Silvestri wrote the score, and CineConcerts had the honor of premiering the movie in concert just this year! With it’s Oscar® nomination and Grammy® win, we are excited to continue performing this wonderful Christmas classic for years to come.