Saturday, December 20, 2008

Christmas Movies

by Beth Andrews

No, I don't mean movies about Christmas (although I have my favorites - It's A Wonderful Life is at the top of that list *g*) today's post is about movies released on Christmas Day. Yet more reasons to love the holidays are all the wonderful movies released betweeen Thanksgiving and the end of the year, but what about the movies opening on Dec. 25? This year's releases include:

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button - a movie about a man who grows younger as he...well...ages. *g* Starring Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett

The Spirit - a superhero battles to protect a city

Bedtime Stories - family movie about a man whose bedtime tales come true in real life starring Adam Sandler and Keri Russel

Valkyrie - story about the failed assassination attempt on Hitler starring Tom Cruise

Marley and Me - movie about a couple dealing with their troublesome dog starring Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson

And there are already plenty of great movies playing in theaters including The Tale of Despereaux (this was one of my older daughter's very favorite books), Seven Pounds (I've seen the commercials for this Will Smith movie at least two dozen times but had no idea what it was about until I read a review of it), Yes Man, a Jim Carey comedy, Doubt and The Reader (for those who like more dramatic movies *g*)

I have to admit, I've never gone to the movies on Christmas Day or even Christmas Eve but it's obviously a coveted release date. In fact, some very popular movies were released on Christmas. Here are the top ten:

Ali


Catch Me If You Can

Alien VS Predator: Requiem

Dream Girls

Patch Adams

Cheaper By The Dozen

The Talented Mr. Ripley

The Godfather part III

Stepmom

Fat Albert

Now, out of these ten movies, I've only seen three (Patch Adams, Cheaper By The Dozen and Fat Albert) and I didn't see any of those three in the theater. Which makes me think I really need to get out more :-)

What about you? Have you ever gone to the movie theater on Christmas Day? Do you plan on going this year? If so, what are you going to see? Any movies currently playing that you're anxious to see? Have you seen any of the other movies released in previous years?

Today is one of the Banditas' 12 Days of Christmas so be sure to leave a comment to be eligible to win a prize. :-)

127 comments:

Tiffany Clare said...

hello birdy.

Louisa Cornell said...

I never go to the movies on Christmas Day although I have some friends who do it every year. It is their family tradition. I really, really want to see Hugh Jackman in Australia!

And I like the sound of Despereaux. It sounds cute and sweet.

Louisa Cornell said...

Shoot, Tiffany! You beat me!!

Louisa Cornell said...

He obviously wants to see some snow. You are in the Great White North, aren't you?

Louisa Cornell said...

Oh and I would love to see Marley and Me. I LOVED the book!

Tiffany Clare said...

no xmas day movies for me. Too much family running around. I didn't see any of that list in the theatre.

A movie I am anxious to see: Australia. But it'll have to wait. My husband snores through anything not gorey and stupid. Oh did I say that in public. What can I say, he has a pref for stupid B movies :) I have a pref for epic romances...

Guess which ones the kids find more gross...

Tiffany Clare said...

Great white north indeed, Louisa. Looks like the freaking north pole right about now... we don't usually get this much snow in Toronto (30cm today).

Tiffany Clare said...

I think the darling GR wants to call the sun out for me. It's too cold. :)

Dina said...

Yes, I like to go to the movies on Christmas day and have in the past years. Might go this year since it looks like I'll spend the earlier part with my daughter and grandkids. Several movies I might see.

limecello said...

Congratulations on the GR, Tiffany!
I'm intrigued by Valkyrie - love history type films... and yes, I have gone to the theaters on Christmas. My family did that sometimes when I was little - and it was just a fun thing to do between presents in the morning, and a potluck for dinner.
Also - because there are so few people out there. (Although I guess it's a pretty popular practice now...)

Joan said...

Congrats, Tiffany!

I'll send the GR's snowshoes right over.

I have gone to the movies on Xmas Day, Beth and actually plan to go with some friends this year. They want to see Valkyre...I'm not real keen on it as I know the ending.

When I was a kid we saw that Sean Connery/Michael Caine The Man Who Would Be King. It had a bleak ending like many of the upcoming movies seem to have. I do want to see Doubt only because Meryl Streep seems powerful in the previews I've seen.

I wish Hollywood would go back to some muscials...or light hearted things...esp. on Christmas!



Over all this year's releases border on the bleak and I

Helen said...

Congrats Tiffany I am sure he will enjoy the snow

Beth I have never been to the movies on Christmas Day actually I very rarely go to the movies much at all one movie at the moment I really want to see is Australia and I have all intentions of going to see it after Chrissy maybe boxing Day but I will get there before I go back to work which is early January.
I tend to wait till they come out on DVD although there are a few that I think must be seen first in a movie theatre and try very hard to get there.

I am staying at Bec and Lex's place tonight and helping with baby Jake he is so cute. Thank heavens they have the internet.

Have Fun
Helen

Michele L. said...

I haven't gone to the movies on Christmas eve either. We usually are with family on that day. It does sound like a fun thing to do though.

I have seen 4 of the movies on the list. I would love to see the Tale of Desperesaux! That looks really good and I love animated movies! I saw WALL-E and thought it was so cute and had a good message! My all time favorite animated movie is FINDING NEMO.

As for snow, I live in Northwest Indiana and we have had our fair share of snow here ever since the beginning of November. Would anyone like me to ship them some their way? I am really tired of all the cold and the slippery and icy road conditions.

jo robertson said...

I love movies, Beth, but I've never been on Christmas day. I like saving that day for family and staying home.

I've been wanting to see Australia since Hugh Jackman did an interview on The View. Man, is he a charmer!

I also want to see Twilight, just to figure out if it lives up to all the hype.

Great topic, Beth.

Congratulations, Tiffany!

Jane said...

Congrats on the GR, Tiffany.

I've never been to the movies on Christmas Eve or Day. We usually stay home all day waiting for the big meal. I'm interested in seeing "The Spirit" and "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button." I'm also interested in "Revolutionary Road" starring Kate Winslet and Leo DiCaprio.

Keira Soleore said...

Beth, I love going to movies, but it's not often that we get to go. So Netflix is our saving grace. I've already added my favs to our list.

This is what I'd like to see...
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Valkyrie
Seven Pounds
Doubt and The Reader

These are the past ones I've seen...
Ali
Catch Me If You Can
Dream Girls
The Talented Mr. Ripley
The Godfather part III
Stepmom

Tiff, 'grats. You got 'im. Louisa, you were hot on the trail.

catslady said...

For the last 5 or 6 years we've been going to the movies on New Year's Eve. When it was just my husband and I though we did go on Christmas Eve but I've never done Christmas Day. If you aren't near family or friends I think it's a nice thing to do.

I want to see Benjamin Button and Marley and Me. Australia was great.

LJ White said...

Another person dropping in from the Great White North. I have never gone to a movie on Christmas day, too much other stuff to do. Actually I hardly ever go to the movie theatre, my husband goes all the time with his Dad. Our movie collection at home is huge so eventually I will watch the movies, but I'm not a huge movie buff like my husband.

Caffey said...

I need to have the closed captioning for the deaf to see the movies and they don't have that in the movie theater (I sometimes will have an open caption movie but that's sometime after the movie has been out. Otherwise I have to wait until it goes on DVD a year later). I think that's why I'm so behind in the current movies and didn't catch up. I don't recall my kids either asking to go see a movie on Christmas! But saw plenty of the advertising about it. Especially this year with Tom Cruise, I believe that's one opening on Christmas (don't laugh at me, but the last movie I saw of his was Top Gun, LOL). I do better chatting about books, Smile.

pjpuppymom said...

Nice catch, Tiff!

I've never been to the movies on Christmas or Christmas Eve. I'm in church Christmas Eve and with family on Christmas.

The only two movies I'm looking forward to are Australia and Marley and Me but the only one of those that I want to see in the theater is Australia.

Laurie G said...

I've never been to a movie on Christmas. It could be because we used to live in the country about 40 miles from a movie theater!
Now we live about 15 minutes away but reeally don't go to movies.
We buy the ones that sound good and rent the others. I did see StepMom, Catch Me if You Can and Godfather 111...all on TV.

Dianna Love said...

Good morning - this is the only place I know that someone gets up earlier than me on the weekend.

I want to see the Bedtime Stories and I'm not a huge Adam Sandler fan, but I heard he contacted his co-star to do this movie when she was pregnant saying, "You're going to have a kid, I have kids, let's do this movie." She said it really came down to Adam's wife saying - you should get Keri Russell to do this. Women are really behind everything in this world. "g"

I saw Australia recently and wow what a movie. I want to see it again. My husband and I love to watch movies. If we like a television show, we wait for it to come out on dvd so we can watch the whole season in one week like a movie.

Sue A. said...

I don't like to venture out on Christmas Day, so I can't say I've ever seen a movie on that day. And with snow expected I won't be going out for any reason.

Anna Sugden said...

Great post, Beth! I love Christmas movies - just thought I'd say that *g*.

No - never gone to the movies on Christmas Day. It's our big family day.

That said, one of the big English traditions (in the days when we only had three or four channels of TV) was to settle down after Christmas lunch in front of the telly for the big Christmas blockbuster release (ie the movie that was being shown for the first time on TV).

There would also be Christmas Specials of popular TV shows. It was always a big deal when the TV listings were announced to see what we'd all be watching.

Not fussed about seeing any of the new releases - I still haven't seen the latest Bond or Mama Mia.

Unknown said...

Congrats to Tiffany for getting thr GR today!

I have never gone to the movies on Christmas day, as a matter of fact I don't know the last time I went to the movies. Most of the time we just wait and rent the movie when it come out on video.

Unknown said...

We have so many family obligations through the holidays, that I have never gone to a Christmas day movie. I know people that do. I do plan to take the kiddos to see Bedtime Stories after Christmas. That should be fun. I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas, or whatever holiday you celebrate!

Maureen said...

I have never gone to a movie on Christmas Day or Christmas Eve. When the kids were younger we often went to see a movie during their time off from school after Christmas. I don't remember most of them but one year we went to see one of the Lord of the Rings movies.

Gillian Layne said...

I push movies on Christmas Day or Christmas evening, if anything appropriate is showing. I love the magic of movies, and it's very relaxing.

I've already rambled on other posts about my favorite Christmas day alone with my husband, and a movie was definitely a part of it. It's lovely to feel like you're attending a "private" showing when no one else is there. :)

Louisa Cornell said...

Morning all!! Keep the GR from freezing his feathers off, Tiff!

My Mom always takes my niece and nephews to the movies during their Christmas break. Never on Christmas Day, but sometime before or after while they are out of school. This started when they were very young and now that they are teens she is tickled pink that they still want to go. She said they've already been arguing about which movie to see with Nana.

I think Despereaux is currently the favorite.

Christie Kelley said...

I've never been to a movie on Christmas day. There's always too much going on and I want to spend it with my family. I have gone the day after Christmas :)

I do want to see Benjamin Button and Bedtime Stories so maybe the day after we'll hit the movies.

hrdwrkdmom aka Dianna said...

I like movies but very seldom go to the theater to see them. I usually wait patiently for it to come out on DVD. I have never been on Christmas day, it is really strange because I was watching tv last night and wondering why they released on Christmas day.
I would like to see Marley and Me.

Anonymous said...

I really don't have time to go. With all the family together, theres too much to do with them.

Nathalie said...

I have never gone to the movies during the holidays, however, we watch DVDs on christmas eve and it is usually very ecletic (and not christmas themed!)

Deb Marlowe said...

Hi Beth!

Christmas is usually a whirlwind for us, but we do see movies while the kids are out on school break. It's one of the things we all look forward to while they are off.

I'm with the rest of you who are wishing for some happy movies! The list does look somber this year.

Beth Andrews said...

Good morning, all!

Tiffany, congrats on getting to spend the day with the GR. I really wanted to cheat and be the first to comment after I posted the blog (I was hoping the GR could help me wrap presents) but I refrained :-)

Beth Andrews said...

Louisa, I'm not even sure our local movie theater is open on Christmas but the one in the town over might be.

I just heard Australia is really good and that Hugh is especially wonderful in it (the movie, although I'm sure he's wonderful in Australia the country as well *g*)

I'd love to take my daughters to see Despereaux, especially to get my older daughter's take on which was better, the book or the film version :-)

Barbara Vey said...

Since my divorce, 16 years ago, I've always gone to see a movie on Christmas Day because my son would be with his father. My family always celebrated Christmas eve, so rather than see them again Christmas day without my son, I started seeing movies with my single/divorced friends. It became a tradition and actually great fun.

This year it will be Yes Man because I always like funny movies to make me feel better.

Anonymous said...

Mornin' everyone! I wonder if anyone other than our Aussie friends DOESN'T have snow right now? It seems like the whole country is snowed under. We got another couple of inches last night. It keeps hovering right around freezing, so it isn't piling up too deep, just enough to keep all the crazy drivers panicked. LOL.

Beth, my son loves Despereaux too, so we might end up at that movie sometime. But both my kids are pretty chicken when it comes to movies and TV shows. We don't let them see a lot, so they aren't used to all the noise and violence. Translation -- they get scared pretty easily. It has to be REALLY tame for them to go.

I've only been to a movie once on Christmas, but I've been to plenty of movies during Christmas holiday breaks. I remember seeing one of the LOTR movies one year with my husband. It was memorable because my mom was in town to watch the kids and it was the first time in ages we'd been to the movies together. :-)

You all have gotten me excited about Bedtime Stories, though. I wonder if it's okay for young kids?

Joan said...

Hugh Jackman did an interview on The View. Man, is he a charmer!

Wasn't that a good interview, Jo!

The ladies made him BLUSH.....

He's even cuter blushing.... {giggle}

Gannon Carr said...

Hugh Jackman in AUSTRALIA.....OMG! The man is gorgeous and on the big screen...spectacular! It's a must see at the theater, but of course, I'll buy it when it comes out on DVD. I'll be able to freeze frame on Hugh. Yay!

I don't go to the movies on Christmas Day, but I am looking forward to seeing some of the movies that are coming out on Christmas Day this year: Marley and Me, Valkyrie, The Tale of Desperaux. We love the movies, so we will be going during the holiday season.

Buffie said...

Nope, never been to the movies on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. We spend Christmas Eve with my family and Christmas Day with the dh's family.

I have seen a couple of the top 10 movies -- Catch Me If You Can, Patch Adams, Cheaper By The Dozen, The Talented Mr. Ripley, and Stepmom.

For those of you who havent' seen AUSTRALIA, you really need to see it, and at the theater. There is nothing better than that large screen showing off Hugh's massive chest covered in soap and water!!! What a scene! Well, I guess there is one thing better -- seeing that in person ;)

Beth Andrews said...

Oh and I would love to see Marley and Me. I LOVED the book!

Good choice, Louisa! I haven't read the book but from what I hear, it's fantastic. And just this morning, I read an article in USA Weekend about the author's new puppy. Here's a link if anyone's interested: http://www.usaweekend.com/08_issues/081221/081221pets.html

Susan Sey said...

Hi, Beth! I have never gone to the movies on Christmas day, though I love to go on New Years' Eve day. (On New Years Day I prefer to hold down the couch.) I remember seeing The Piano on New Years Eve Day & being just in love with the whole story. It was the first Jane Campion movie I'd ever seen & I have loved her ever since.

But as far as Christmas releases go, I think the best one on your list was the Talented Mr. Ripley. SUCH a great story, & the first time I think I'd seen Phillip Seymour Hoffman in all his scheming glory. Mmmm. Love me some PSH. :-)

Beth Andrews said...

LOL, Tiffany! My husband tends to fall asleep at the movies too, any movie. Which is why I told him he couldn't go with us again unless he stayed awake. He can sleep for free at home *g*

My daughters, especially my younger one, love a good romance movie. My son loves movies such as Superbad and Pineapple Express and The Dark Knight (which I'm afraid to watch now because of the whole disappearing pencil scene).

Janga said...

No snow in my part of the South, Kirsten. In fact, we've been having 70 degree temps, but the cold is supposed to return tomorrow.

I want to see Australia and will probably see The Tale of Despereaux with a grand, but I wait for the DVD for most movies. And I've never been to the movies on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. For me, those days are always filled with church and family.

Beth Andrews said...

we don't usually get this much snow in Toronto

Tiffany, I didn't know you were up in Toronto! I'm about 90 miles south of Buffalo so we have plenty of white as well *g* Luckily, we didn't get hit with as much snow yesterday as predicted.

Eva S said...

I have never been to the movies on Christmas Day, too many relatives coming for dinner. But I'm going to see Australia later!

Beth Andrews said...

Dina, I think a day that includes spending time with family AND going to the movies sounds wonderful *g*

We have a late brunch and then a dinner in the evening so I'm not sure we'd have time but my kids would love it :-)

Beth Andrews said...

limecello, I love history type films too.

How fun your family went to the movies on Christmas! Do you remember any of the movies you saw?

When my kids were younger, they were always up so early we usually napped in the afternoon *g* Now the youngest has to force her brother and sister out of bed so they can unwrap presents :-)

Beth Andrews said...

I wish Hollywood would go back to some muscials...or light hearted things...esp. on Christmas!

I agree, Joan. I'm not a fan of bleak - especially during the holidays! And while Marley and Me looks cute, I'd love a really great romantic comedy or family film.

My daughters and their friends watched The House Bunny last night. I may have to sneak away from my writing and watch it before taking it back to the video store. The commercials for it cracked me up *g*

Suzanne Ferrell said...

Good morning, Y'all!! I thought I was crazy to get up early on a Saturday to finish my Christmas shopping, but here y'all are!!

Beth, we usually don't go to the movies on Christmas Day, since I have the late meal of the day for our families. But we have taken to watching one of the DVD's the kids or I get for Christmas. (Hubby doesn't watch too many movies.) But I have been to the theater see each of the LOTR movies the day after Christmas!! Mmmmmmmmm Sean Bean and Viggo Mortesen...yummo!

Beth Andrews said...

Helen, I rarely get to see movies at the theater either. My kids go often - guess that's why I can't afford to go myself *g*

I have serious baby envy! I adore newborns and I'm sure your new grandsons are absolute dolls! I can't think of a better early Christmas gift than two beautiful babies :-)

Beth Andrews said...

Michele, I love animated movies too! I watched Kung Fu Panda with my youngest and was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it.

I also thought Bolt looked cute - mainly because of the chubby hamster sidekick :-) But we'll wait for it to come out on DVD.

Caren Crane said...

Tiffany, you sly thing, you! have fun with the ill-behaved birdy today. He has been known to poke his beak into Christmas gifts so watch out!

Beth, I ADORE movies at any time of the year, but get especially excited when the holiday movies are released. There are always Oscar contenders like The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button and heartwarmers like Marley and Me that I MUST see.

Last night, we went to see Four Christmases. Because the critics were lukewarm on it, I knew I would love it. I did! So much dysfunction packed into one film - and such variety! Jonathan Favreau has been a favorite actor/screenwriter/director of mine since Swingers. This one did not disappoint!

I generally don't see movies on Christmas day, because that's for family and friends; however, as the school break grows longer, the movies become a welcome respite. So, I will be running off to the movies after Christmas. Have to get ready for the Oscar season, you know. *g*

Caren Crane said...

Dianna, I also wait for TV shows to come out on DVD and then glut myself on a whole season in a matter of days. *g* I rarely see anything while it's still actively on TV, but have become a fan of many series after the fact. *g*

Michele L., I'm in central NC, where it was a horrid, humid, unnatural 70 degrees F yesterday. Please send snow. *g*

Caren Crane said...

Barbara, I want to see Yes Man too, but my husband has no interest. I'll have to drag a daughter or friend with me. He also has no interest in Australia. For some reason, Hugh's pecs do nothing for him!

Caren Crane said...

Susan, I loved The Talented Mr. Ripley. "Have you ever seen anyone so white, Marge?" Jude Law was so gorgeous in that movie. And who would have believed Matt Damon could play gay so well? Actually, I became a huge Matt Damon fan when I saw Good Will Hunting. I prefer him without Ben Affleck, but Ben was less annoying than usual in that one. Ben also kind of redeemed himself in Bounce.

Anonymous said...

Alas, never been to the movies on Christmas or have I really seen the holiday movies. . . I remember being at the movies during December one year, and that was for Star Trek 6. But that's about it. :)

Lois

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Mornin' Beth! :> Great post! I love the movies at Christmas but I agree with whoever said (JT?) that the movies this year and esp. this Christmas are very bleak. Then again, The Talented Mr. Ripley wasn't exactly shiny and brigh. Hmmmm.

I used to do the movies at the holidays when I was single, but with kids, it's hard to get a babysitter for a movie on a regular day, much less Christmas! Ha! Then too, there's church and dinner...and more dinner...I'm the cook this year. Steak n' taters Christmas eve, the full turkey-lurkey dinner on Christmas day. SLURP!

I really want to see Spirit - hey, I'm with Caren's hubby, I want a movie where things blow up! Grade B movies are MY movies! Heehee. Then again, I'm going to slip off to Australia with a girlfriend this next week. MMMMM-MMMMM Hugh! He can bring me TimTams - or anything else for that matter - any ol' time.

Congrats on the rooster Tiffany! Did Helen send along his ear muffs? he didn't need 'em in Aus, that's for sure.

Beth Andrews said...

I also want to see Twilight, just to figure out if it lives up to all the hype

Oh, me too, Jo. My daughter saw the movie first then read the first book. She liked the movie but loved the book. Now I just need to pick up the other books in the series for her :-)

And I love seeing stars on talk shows. David Beckham never really crossed my radar until I saw him on Ellen and he totally charmed me!

Beth Andrews said...

Jane, I'm trying a new recipe this Christmas so I'll be home as well but that's okay because I do love to cook *g*

I want to see The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and Kate Winslet's other movie, The Reader. Looks like a really powerful movie.

Beth Andrews said...

Keira, I'm so far behind on my movie watching it's pathetic *g*

I want to get Mama Mia tonight and am hoping to get caught up on movies I missed over the next two weeks including: Wanted, Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian and Eagle Eye.

Beth Andrews said...

Catslady, I love the idea of going to the movies on NYE! We usually stay home and rent movies but this year our kids are performing so we'll actually have to venture out of the house *g*

My husband and I must be party poopers because we really do like a nice quiet NYE at home :-)

Minna said...

There are no movie theaters in countryside. I'll always watch the movies when they finally show them on tv or when I can get them on DVD. I'm looking forward to seeing this Finnish animation movie:

Niko & The Way to the Stars
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8LtFFJ39wd0&feature=related

http://virtual.finland.fi/xmas/niko.html

Beth Andrews said...

LJWhite, our movie collection consists of my kids' favorites. I'd love a huge collection but never think to buy DVDs of my favorite movies.

And I just realized I've already bought at least 6 DVDs for my kids for Christmas :-)

Beth Andrews said...

Caffey, closed captioning isn't something I've ever seen at my local theaters either. Can you explain what an open caption movie is?

I think the last Tom Cruise movie I saw was Jerry Maguire.

And I love chatting about books! I have several in my TBR pile I'm dying to get to and of course, I'm anxiously awaiting Anna's Tempt The Devil to come out :-)

Beth Andrews said...

PJ, we also go to church on Christmas Eve and then Christmas morning it's presents at home, presents at my sister's (her kids are little, 4 and 1, so it's a lot of fun to see what Santa brought them *g*) brunch at my mom's then home for a little bit, dinner, then we go to my brother's for more food and game playing.

No time for movies but I think it would be fun to go the day after Christmas or possibly Christmas Eve day :-)

Beth Andrews said...

Laurie, we're very lucky to still have our two screen movie theater. It closed for a few months but then some local people brought it back and have managed to keep it open ever since. Otherwise, we'd have to go to the next town which is 20 miles away.

The only Godfather movie I've seen is the first one. Do those of you who've seen the other two think they live up to the original?

Loucinda McGary aka Aunty Cindy said...

GREAT post, Beth!

Just saw Australia yesterday and Buffie you are SOOO RIGHT! Hugh's bare chest covered with soap & water on the BIG SCREEN! WHEW!!! Had to pull out the industrial sized drool buckets for that one. It really was an EPIC movie along the lines of GWTW. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND you see it, and at the theater if at all possible.

I have gone to the movies on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, but it has been a long while so I don't remember what I saw. I do remember one of the LOTR films (I think it was Return of the King) opened on my bday and my BFF and I went opening night.

I think I've seen all those you mentioned, Beth, except Step-Mom. I LURVED Talented Mr. Ripley, though Matt Damon scared the you-know-what out of me with his performance!

I usually do wait for the DVDs to come out, and will probably do that with the current crop of Christmas movies. None of the ones I saw in previews yesterday looked interesting enough to get me into the theater. However, NOTE TO SUZ: Clive Owen has a new film coming in Feb. called The International that looks GREAT! He had all his clothes on the the preview, but one can hope...

AC

Tawny said...

I can't wait to see Marley and Me!! But it definitely won't be on Christmas day LOL. There is just so much else to do that day, and so so much food - how can I add movie theater popcorn to the mix? (of course I'd have to have popcorn... how can one watch the movie without it?)

What a fun post, Beth! I don't know anyone personally who does the holiday movie thing, but my daughter worked at a theater for awhile and said Thanskgiving and Christmas were alwasy two of their most busy days.

Donna MacMeans said...

Beth - You really need to see Dream Girls - love the music.

I think the idea of the Christmas release is to sneak the movie into 2008 and still have it run in 2009. That way it's considered for the Oscars while still showing in the theaters. Didn't Shakespeare in Love do something similar? I've never gone to the movies on Christmas Day but I remember my daughter and I rushing to see Shakespeare in Love at a small artsy theater in the week before New Year's day.

Off to do some quick Christmas shopping -

Shari C said...

We usually don't go to the movies on Christmas Day, but spend it at home with family. This year, however, we are away from home and are thinking of going to see a movie with some new friends we've made; we would like to go and see 'Marley and Me'.

Joan said...

and so so much food - how can I add movie theater popcorn to the mix? (of course I'd have to have popcorn... how can one watch the movie without it?)

Tawny,

I ate Thanksgiving DINNER then went to the movie and ate popcorn!

It CAN be done

danie88 said...

My mom is thinking about starting a new tradition to see a movie every year on Christmas Day... that should be interesting :)

I REALLY wanna go see Marley & Me... I read the book and just loved it. It's one of my favorites now and is on my keeper shelf! If you enjoy a heartwarming story about a pet and his family you should definately read this book.

danie88 said...

*waves* just giving a wave and saying hi to Beth and Tawny! :)

Tawny said...

Hmmm, JoanieT, popcorn for dessert. I could do that.

Danie - waving back!!!

Beth Andrews said...

Dianna, I hadn't heard that story about Bedtime Stories. That is so cool!

I'm envious you've seen Australia! I won't get to see it until it comes out on DVD :-( I suppose I'll have to get my Hugh fix by watching X-Men (the first two, not the third one) or Kate and Leopold *g*

Beth Andrews said...

SueA, the farthest we go is to my mom's which is less than 2 miles away *g* It's usually snowing and cold so we tend to stay inside as well. If I plan ahead this year, I could get a few movies for us all to watch that day but it's hard to find a movie I, my husband, our 17 yo son and two daughters all want to watch!

Beth Andrews said...

Anna, I love Christmas specials of popular shows! Chuck had a great Christmas episode and Christmas Eve, Top Chef is having a special where they bring back some of the chefs from previous seasons to compete. We'll be busy but I'll tape it so we can watch it later
:-)

Not only have I not seen the latest Bond movie, I haven't even seen the previous Bond movie - Daniel Craig's Bond debut! I am so far behind *g*

Beth Andrews said...

Hi, Virginia. I'm the same way. I went to the movies once this past year and it was to the drive-in with my daughters and their friends. We saw Wall-E and Get Smart *g*

I'll be lucky if I get to the movies again before next summer!

CrystalGB said...

I have never gone to the movies on Christmas day. I am too tired. I want to see Valkyrie and Marley and Me.

Anna Campbell said...

Hey, Tiff! Clearly he's got sick of the lovely warm weather down here and has decided he needs to practise his winter sports! He's such a jetsetter, our beloved chook!

Barbara, hello again to the Banditas! Loved your post over on Publishers Weekly about the snow. It makes such a contrast to how hot it's been here! Although it's grey and wet today so I'm enjoying the relief from the awful humidity. Have a great Christmas!

Beth, I love your post! Nah, I never go to the movies at Christmas time. I'm too busy eating leftover and the chocolates that evil people give me. Perhaps it would be better for me if I DID go to the movies! By the way, I think Marley and Me looks cute!

Beth Andrews said...

bamabelle, I've been thinking about it but I can't think of anyone who goes to the movies on Christmas day. Maybe I need to expand my circle of friends *g*

Bedtime Stories does look good, doesn't it? I'm not a fan of some of Adam Sandler's movies but I did like Click and I want to see his Zohan movie *g*

Happy Holidays to you too!

Beth Andrews said...

Maureen, we've also taken the kids to the movies over Christmas break. I think the last time we did we went two days before Christmas but I took the older two to see Harry Potter and my husband took our youngest to see The Santa Clause 2.

We figured we'd wait to do that again when they all wanted/were old enough to see the same thing *g*

Beth Andrews said...

Gillian, movies are magical to me as well! I love, love, love them!

My son and I have gone to the movies twice where we were the only people in the theater (surprised they even showed the movies just for the two of us) It was weird but fun :-)

Beth Andrews said...

Louisa, that is such a cool tradition and yes, it's awesome they still want to go with their Nana. How fun!

Despereaux looks so cute and the commercials crack me up *g*

Beth Andrews said...

Christie, I hope you get your movie day and please let us know what you think of the movie you get to watch!

Beth Andrews said...

LOL, Dianna! My daughter asked me the very same thing when we heard a list of all the movies being released on Christmas. It's what inspired this post *g*

I guess quite a few do go though, and it does sound like a fun tradition! If I didn't look forward to cooking a nice Christmas meal, I'd go as well :-)

Beth Andrews said...

Kimmyl, I know what you mean. All of our family members live nearby so we see each other often but the tradition at Christmas is we spend most of the day together. We always look forward to ending Christmas day at my brothers playing games and eating, eating, eating ;-)

Beth Andrews said...

Ooh, Nathalie, your eclectic choices sound very intriguing! What movies have you watched?

We always watch DVDs on NYE and they're never holiday themed either :-)

Beth Andrews said...

Hey there, Deb! Are you all able to agree on which movie you want to see? As you may have guessed, that's my family's biggest problem *g*

I'm all for happy movies and happy endings and just general happiness! I do enjoy the darker, more dramatic fare but only if I'm home where I can bawl or hide my eyes in private :-)

Beth Andrews said...

What a fun tradition, Barbara! I do enjoy Jim Carey movies (well, some of them *g*) and I'm betting Yes Man will have lots of giggles :-)

Beth Andrews said...

Kirsten, we're supposed to get even more snow tomorrow and another storm Christmas Eve. Good thing we're all used to the stuff *g*

My youngest gets scared easily as well. When we watch movies at home and I know or even suspect a scary part is coming up, I'll have her close her eyes and cover her ears *g* It works for her but she has no interest in the Harry Potter movies or Pirates of the Carribean. But my older daughter wil watch scary movies and not even bat an eye.

*sigh* Teenagers.

I'm guessing Bedtime Stories will be okay but you might want to check some review sites first just to make sure :-)

Beth Andrews said...

Gannon, I hope you all have a great time at the movies! And I take it that you'd highly recommend Australia? *g*

Beth Andrews said...

There is nothing better than that large screen showing off Hugh's massive chest covered in soap and water!!! What a scene! Well, I guess there is one thing better -- seeing that in person ;)

LOL, Buffie! Yet another thumbs up for Hugh...er...I mean Australia
;-) I'm definitely going to have to see this movie at the theater!

Beth Andrews said...

Susan, I think the reason I've never watched The Talented Mr. Ripley is because of my crush on Matt Damon. I just don't know if I could watch him be a bad guy. I much prefer to see him as conflicted Jason Bourne. Okay, so Jason could be considered a bad guy but I just think he's misunderstood ;-)

Beth Andrews said...

Janga, I long for warm temperatures! Of course, if it got above 40 here we'd have a mess with all the snow melting *g*

Beth Andrews said...

Eva, does that mean you're cooking Christmas dinner? Do you have a traditional meal? I'm making Italian this year - I think *g* I might change my mind by then :-)

Beth Andrews said...

Suz, I did see all of the LOTR movies at the theater with my son. I'm so glad I did! I'll gladly rewatch them on DVD but they really need to be seen at least one on the big screen *g*

So...what's for Christmas dinner? *vbg*

Beth Andrews said...

Caren, I think I'd like Four Christmases as well. I'm a huge Reece Witherspoon fan and yes, I like Vince Vaughn *g*

Our Christmas breaks are getting longer as well. We're now up to two weeks! Luckily my kids are kept busy but by the end of the two weeks we are all ready for school to start again :-)

Beth Andrews said...

Hi, Lois! I hope Star Trek 6 was worth the trip to the theater! I've never seen any of the Star Trek films. Should I rectify that?

Beth Andrews said...

Steak n' taters Christmas eve, the full turkey-lurkey dinner on Christmas day. SLURP!

Yum! What time should we arrive? *g*

I'm making Sunday gravy, which is homemade marinara sauce with sausage, pork ribs and flank steak. Obviously not for vegetarians. I'm also debating making homemade pasta but it depends on how much energy I have at the time :-)

Anonymous said...

I have seen 6 of the 10. I even saw GODFATHER 3 on Xmas with the whole family. We were big Godfather fans.

The last time the family saw a movie together on Xmas was PHANTOM OF THE OPERA. I doubt we will be able to do it this yr was various reasons but I will see BENJAMIN BUTTON eventually.

Beth Andrews said...

Niko and The Way To The Stars looks so cute, Minna! I love Niko already :-)

Beth Andrews said...

None of the ones I saw in previews yesterday looked interesting enough to get me into the theater.

Oh, AC, that is disappointing. I adore the previews. I hate to be late to a movie because I don't want to miss a second of them *g*

Beth Andrews said...

Of course I have to have popcorn at the theater! I can smell it's buttery (and artery clogging) goodness now *g*

Did your daughter mind working those days? If it was in the evening, it wouldn't be as bad - at least she could enjoy her Christmas morning :-)

Beth Andrews said...

Donna, I would love to see Dream Girls! It's on my list of movies I want to watch but that list just keeps growing *g*

That's a good point about wanting the movies to be contenders for the Oscars. I know a lot of them are released later in the year to keep them fresh in the minds of the people voting/nominating for the Academy Awards.

Hope you finished your shopping! I need to finish mine Monday *g*

Beth Andrews said...

ShariC, I think going to the movies with your new friends is a great idea! You may even start a new tradition *g*

Beth Andrews said...

Hey, Danie! (waving wildly *g*)

I'm now dying to read Marley and Me and how fun your mom wants to start a new tradition! A few weeks ago I mentioned starting a new tradition this Christmas and all I got were blank stares :-)

My family needs to liven up a bit ;-)

Beth Andrews said...

CrystalGB, I'm always exhausted on Christmas. Not sure why but all I want to do Christmas afternoon is sleep *g*

Beth Andrews said...

Anna, you could bring the chocolates with you to the movie - just don't get caught and don't tell the theater employees I told you to sneak snacks in *g*

Fedora said...

Hi, Beth! I'm not much of a movie goer, period, so it's unlikely I'll be found at the theater on Christmas, much less any other day of the year ;)

I think for me, movies are slightly overwhelming, so there aren't too many that I want to see quite so big! (The original Star Wars, for instance ;))

Congrats on the chook, Tiffany!

Beth Andrews said...

Hi, Seton! I should watch the other two Godfather movies and I don't think my husband has seen any of them. If only we had time to have Godfather movie marathon *g*

I've never seen The Phantom of the Opera yet either but I know plenty of Gerry fanatics who absolutely love it :-)

Unknown said...

I haven't ever went to the theater on Christmas Day. There is a couple of movies I would like to see this year.

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Beth said: I'm making Sunday gravy, which is homemade marinara sauce with sausage, pork ribs and flank steak. Obviously not for vegetarians. I'm also debating making homemade pasta but it depends on how much energy I have at the time :-)

Well, Beth, I'm a meatatarian. I'll be winging by for some of that...Heehee. Sounds GREAT!

Beth Andrews said...

Fedora, I made the mistake of taking my son to see one of the new Star Wars movies in the theater. What a waste of money. Glad I learned my lesson and didn't repeat that mistake with the other two *g*

Beth Andrews said...

Hi, Amy S! What movies do you want to see? I'm in the mood for a comedy. Of course, I'm always in the mood for a comedy :-)

Beth Andrews said...

Well, Beth, I'm a meatatarian. I'll be winging by for some of that...Heehee

ROFL! You're more than welcome for dinner, Jeanne! I always make way too much food and then have to listen to my family complain about eating leftovers for a week ;-)

Terry Odell said...

Christmas is not my holiday. Like so many others of my faith surrounded by those celebrating Christmas, hubby and I go to a movie and out for Chinese food. Over the past couple of years, it's become harder and harder to find a movie we're both interested in seeing (and spending money to see), but it's our tradition and we deal with it. However, the Chinese food is always good.

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Hi Terry! I know what you mean about finding a movie you both like! :> I love Chinese food too...

Kammie said...

I've never gone to the movies on Christmas day. I am going this year on the Saturday after. I've been wanting to see Australia. I hope it's still there.

Pat Cochran said...

Answers to questions: Never, No, Will not be attending, No, Bits of Cheaper
By The Dozen !

Pat Cochran

Suzanne Ferrell said...

Just popping back on after a day of shopping..........almost done!!

Traditional Christmas dinner at the Welsh household:

Grilled flank steak, twice baked potatoes, spinach and strawberry salad, crab stuffed mushrooms, shrimp cocktail ring....and cookies and cheese ball if anyone wants more later.

kim h said...

i have it was fun went wiht my little cousins wathaced enchated

Leslie said...

Before we had kids and we didn't live near family, dh and I would go to the movies on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Now that we have kids and family close by we spend the day with them.

I am interested in seeing The Curious Case of Benjamin Button but would like to read the story first.

Beth Andrews said...

Sorry I'm late responding - yesterday was one of 'those' days :-)

Terry, my family has the same problem. Between my husband, our 17 yo son and two daughters (14 and 11) we have a very hard time agreeing a movie.

I've always wanted to get Chinese food on Christmas Eve (I love Chinese food!) but my kids veto it every year in favor of our traditional pizza *sigh*

Beth Andrews said...

Kammie, I hope you get to see Australia!

Hi, Pat! Cheaper By The Dozen is really a cute movie. Of course, I love both Steve Martin and Bonnie Hunt so that might have something to do with it *g*

Yum, Suz!! It all sounds wonderful *g* My family decided they didn't want Sunday gravy so we're going to have a Rib Roast instead :-)

kimh, I love Enchanted!! What a fun movie *g*

Leslie, I hadn't realized The Mysterious Case of Benjamin Button was a book. I'll have to check it out *g*