The Christmas break is upon us and to help turn these cold nights into cosy nights we asked our college-level film buffs what their favourite movies to watch at this time of year are. Scroll to find some festive (and frightening) inspiration recommended by UAL Extended Diploma Film & TV production students Tishe and Roman!

1. Elf (2003) – Directed by Jon Favreau

Roman: Whereas Christmas films either are too soppy (to the point where they are unenjoyable) or too comedic (to the point where they completely forget about the entire message they’re trying to convey), ‘Elf’ starring Will Ferrell is a perfect combination of the two – and perhaps the only normal Christmas film on my list.

2. Silent Night Deadly Night (1984) – Directed by Charles Sellier

Roman: Another Christmas horror film, however this time less artistic and more in line with the slasher genre 1984’s ‘Silent Night Deadly Night’ is a must watch for all slasher fans. Upon its release, this film shocked audiences for its depiction of a Santa-dressed murderer.

3. Christmas Evil (1980) – Directed by Lewis Jackson

Roman: A lesser known Christmas horror movie, but a peculiar combination of art and cheap kills ‘Christmas Evil’ went mostly unnoticed when released (despite including a murderer dressed as Santa before Silent Night Deadly Night) earning it a place among the hidden gems of movies.

4. Die Hard (1988) – Directed by John McTiernan

Roman: You know what ‘Die Hard’ is. Yes it’s a Christmas film.

5. Black Christmas (1974)  – Directed by Bob Clark

Roman: Perhaps the greatest Christmas horror movie ever made (and my personal favourite Christmas movie), ‘Black Christmas’ pioneered a lot of the common tropes of slasher movies and even contained several shots that inspired scenes from John Carpenter’s 1977 classic ‘Halloween’. It has no sequels but has been remade twice (however neither of these have lived up to the original).

6. The Holdovers (2024) – Directed by Alexander Payne

Tishe: A teacher unexpectedly bonds with his student during the Christmas season. I love the film’s warmth and emotional depth.

7. Carol: (2015) – Directed by Todd Haynes

Tishe: A store clerk falls for a customer. I enjoyed the cosy atmosphere and tender storytelling.

8. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)  – Directed by Rob Howard

Tishe: A fun, lighthearted classic about the joy of Christmas.

9. Home Alone: (1990) Directed by Chris Columbus

Tishe: Nostalgic and clever, it’s a timeless holiday favourite and always puts me in the holiday spirit.

10. Little Women (2019) Directed by Greta Gerwig

Tishe: Although it’s not technically a Christmas film. I love how this story explores friendship and the deep bond between the March sisters!

If you are interested in studying Film at college-level make sure you find out more about our fantastic diploma. This course develops industry skillsets and also provides a wide range of opportunities for students to develop a variety of projects, such as advertising, documentary and fine art film making. Find out more here.