Written by Rafaelia Socratous, Edited by Anfisa Semenova

It’s not even Christmas yet but you’re already tired of Mariah Carey or stressing about gifts? One thing no one can ever get tired of though is watching films. Especially when we have so much free time on our hands during the holidays! Below, Reel Talk editor Rafaelia Socratous recommends some non-Christmas films that will definitely lift your spirits.

1. The Devil Wears Prada (2006), starring Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Stanley Tucci, Emily Blunt

Maybe it’s because this film replays on Greek TV every time it’s Christmas eve, but this is a mandatory watch during Christmas. This movie is what made me want to delve into the world of fashion at the age of 12 and Christmas doesn’t feel complete if I’m not snuggled up next to my mum and sister and watching it.

2. Pride and Prejudice (2005), starring Kira Knightley, Matthew Macfadyen

The yearning for one another; the longing; the cultural reset that was Mr Darcy’s improvised hand flex!!! This film alongside a warm cup of tea is everything you need on a rainy December night.

3. Peter Pan (2003, live action), starring Jeremy Sumpter, Jason Isaacs

I would be lying if I said that I wasn’t sitting in front of the TV, eyes glued on the screen and chanting ‘I do believe in fairies, I do, I do’ along with the actors. This film is visually magical and provides a kind of sparkle within that I thought only Christmas films held.

4. Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)

Studio Ghibli films really do feel like a warm embrace. Howl’s moving castle provides stunning visuals and the right amount of nostalgia for spring and the blossoming season one needs to reminisce about on a cold icy winter night. The frosty house grows warm, and so do our hearts. You’ll understand once you watch.

5. Dead Poets Society (1989), starring Robin Williams, Ethan Hawke

Heartbreakingly beautiful. Robin Williams’ performance in this film is one of the main reasons why I have come to study Literature in university. This film touches the coldest of hearts.

6. Patch Adams (1998), starring Robin Williams, Philip Seymour

A heart-warming true story about a doctor whose pathos, humour and kindness saved not only the lives of his patients but also warmed the hearts of anyone who’s come across this story. This film really shows the moral dilemmas and personal involvement in every single patient a doctor comes across. Another Robin Williams film that feels like a warm embrace.

7. Paddington Bear (2014)

It’s probably something to do with the filming of the icy London streets that makes this film stand out as an ideal pitch for a movie night in during Christmas. Paddington Bear is the perfect film for a family night this winter!

8. Ratatouille (2007)

Is it just me or do Paris and the Christmas spirit go hand in hand? Ratatouille’s visuals of the Eiffel tower and home-cooked meals scream HOLIDAYS. Such a comfort film.

9. Burlesque (2010), starring Christina Aguilera, Cher, Kristen Bell

In my group of friends, we idolised this movie for the whole entirety of high school. The dancing, the singing, the feathers, the outfits, the pain, the passion. From beginning to end this film just provides you with major Moulin Rouge vibes, and the pleasure of listening to Aguilera sing for pretty much all 119 minutes. Perfect for a s’mores and popcorn Christmas get together.

10. Anastasia (1997)

I mean, just one listen to ‘Once Upon a December’ is enough to get you to the Christmas spirit. I honestly think it largely has to do with how wintery this whole film is, the fact that it’s based in the snowstorm that is Moscow or the dancing and bedazzled balls that create the vibe of a real Christmas Eve party.