We’re in the holiday season, with Christmas just four days away. It’s a magical time of year full of classic stories about family. Below, for this week’s Binge, I’m going to look at my five favorite Christmas films that center around family. Films appear in chronological order.

It’s A Wonderful Life (1946)
About: This is one of the oldest Christmas tales and it still holds up. Frank Capra’s tale of George Bailey remains deeply impactful. As he journeys through his life, he realizes that family is his greatest legacy. If you don’t feel the spirit watching this, I don’t know what to tell you. It’s a classic family tale that’s worth seeking out.

A Christmas Story (1983)
About: Another classic seasonal tale that is all about family. I love following Ralphie and his journey through the season, with his sights set on the ultimate Christmas gift. There is laughter and drama, a beautifully told tale that is integral to a family Christmas.

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
About: In the film we hear Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase) referred to as the last great family man. He goes all out to create a family holiday in this classic. This is the third of the Vacation films and easily the best. It captures the joy and frustration of a good old fashioned family Christmas. It’s one of my favorite films.

Home Alone (1990)
About: Poor Kevin, left home alone as his family heads to France. At first, Kevin is grateful for some alone time where he can set the rules. But soon enough, he realizes how much he misses his family. There’s laughter but there’s also plenty of pathos in this film, which is a seasonal classic that’s fun for the whole family.

Elf (2003)
About: I can’t believe this film turned 20 years old this year. Will Ferrell delivers one of his best performances in a film that is a huge holiday classic. It’s also ultimately about the family you’re born with and the family you choose. Family is at the heart of the story and it’s one of the reasons this is a can’t miss seasonal classic.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.