Even though Bill Melendez's direction makes the animation for the first Peanuts' special simple and rushed, the humor and charm transcend it all. Addressing the emptiness of the commercial aspects of Christmas and holiday depression, 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' is a classic for its freewheelin' and satiric moments while leaving behind the gift of a message that matters.

Perhaps exhausted on everyone's Christmas list by now, 'It's a Wonderful Life' is a modern companion to Dicken's 'A Christmas Carol' and a fine holiday flick that still has us rooting for George Bailey (James Stewart) on his hapless track to redemption.

Besides featuring perhaps Will Ferrell's most endearing performance, the film about a giant, misfit elf going to meet his real father in New York City, pays dirt for its charming contrast between child-like innocense and modern cynicism. A precursor to 'Enchanted'. (Featuring Edward Asner, James Caan, and Bob Newhart)

Too easily dismissed, this film really delivers with Tim Allen ably taking the helm as the current Santa Claus who must get hitched and knock his son off the naughty list in order to keep his job at the North Pole. Funny, engaging, and surprisingly absorbing.

Tom Hanks is the helmsman of the harrowing and haunting tale of children taking an enchanted ride to the North Pole to meet Santa Claus.