Picture this: a snowy night where the world outside is blanketed in a soft layer of white, and the only sounds are the gentle melodies of Christmas carols and the laughter of loved ones gathered around. You’re snuggled up in a gigantic blanket, with hot chocolate warming your hands and a box of tangerines within easy reach. If this cozy setting resonates with your Christmas plans, here is a list of movies and TV shows that perfectly complement this idyllic atmosphere.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Marking the start of the enduringly popular Harry Potter film series, the movie welcomes us to the wizarding world as it follows Harry in his first year at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. While not exactly a Christmas-themed movie, it weaves a spell of coziness and magic that resonates perfectly with the festive season. Consider starting the movie precisely at 22:32:59 on Christmas Eve. When the clock strikes 12, Harry and Ron will extend heartfelt wishes for a joyous Christmas, adding an extra touch of magic to your holidays.

Elf. Starring Will Ferrell as Buddy the Elf, the movie tells a story about Buddy, a human who was accidentally brought to the North Pole as a baby and raised by Santa’s elves. As Buddy grows older and discovers his true identity, he is determined to find his biological father and embarks on a journey to New York City. On the journey, Buddy spreads Christmas cheer with his enthusiasm and discovers the true meaning of family and holiday spirit. 

The Big Bang Theory Season 2 Episode 11 “The Bath Item Gift Hypothesis”. A television sitcom revolving around a group of quirky scientists that I’m sure most KAISTians will love. In this episode, the group puts up with Sheldon’s obsessive gift-giving attitude, and Penny’s special Christmas gift for Sheldon leads to a memorable and heartwarming moment. Add this episode to your Christmas watchlist for a festive pastime that promises to bring a good laugh with its witty humor and endearing moments. 

The Nightmare Before Christmas. Tim Burton’s stop-motion masterpiece with the iconic soundtrack What’s This? The film follows Jack Skellington, also known as the “Pumpkin King” or the organizer of Halloween, who is bored with the repetitive annual routine of Halloween. Looking for inspiration, Jack roams around the woods and ends up stumbling into Christmas Town. Allured and inspired by its bright colors and festive atmosphere, Jack makes it his mission to understand the magic of Christmas Town. For those who appreciate the combination of beautiful animation, fantasy, and musical elements, The Nightmare Before Christmas is a perfect choice for you this holiday season. 

Klaus. The film revolves around Jesper Johnson, the spoiled son of the Royal Postmaster General. Jesper is dispatched to an isolated, seemingly desolate town called Smeerensburg by his father with the task of posting 6,000 letters. If he failed to do so, he would be removed from the family inheritance. Unfortunately, Jesper is faced with challenging circumstances: the town is dominated by two extended families, the Ellingboes and the Krums, who are sworn enemies and have no interest in correspondence. The narrative takes a turn when Jesper befriends Klaus, a secluded toymaker. Together, they strive to spread joy, bridging the gap between the two warring families. Klaus is a delightful choice for those seeking a Christmas film that combines visual charm with a compelling storyline. 

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