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Twas the afternoon during 6th period and with bellowing plight, arguments were brewing with no clear answer in sight.
Aside from the feeble attempt to allude to famous holiday literature, there was a serious debate emerging in the newspaper classroom. What started in an article trying to identify the greatest Christmas movie turned into a learning moment and great epiphany: not everyone has the great knack for knowing that The Polar Express is the best holiday movie. I could go on talking about the revolutionary technology and versatility of renowned actor Tom Hanks, but that’s a conversation for another article (pending chief approval).
In all seriousness, there are too many holiday movies to simply choose the best one. In lieu of this discovery, I compensated in the only way I know how: a March Madness-style tournament bracket. Compiling input from our staff, we put the most loved films and put them head-to-head. In my desperate attempt to redeem The Polar Express, I also included a “Loser’s Bracket.” Without any contest, Elf quickly became the clear favorite among our staff. Holiday movies are quite subjective, with torn opinions in and outside of the newspaper room.
Senior Katie Adair says her favorite movie is “Rudolph, because it is a classic and has many great songs.” Rudolph was agreed to be among the top movies, with many debating strongly to allow the film to be included in the bracket despite its short run time. While not her top movie, she still agrees that Elf is a “great choice, and I love Will Ferrell.” Not all bystanders agree with this outcome, however.
Sophomore Allen Whitaker is a guy with few opinions and even fewer regarding Christmas movies. While fairly neutral about his favorite holiday movie, he thinks that “Elf is not the best. I find it a little annoying.”
Holiday movies are frequently watched this time of year. Even after multiple viewings over the years, they always seem to be pulled up on the television without fail. Everyone always has that one movie they cannot wait to see once November starts and that happens to be The Polar Express for me.
I am not alone in this, as senior Jason Capouch maintains that this movie is “revolutionary with groundbreaking themes.” An aspect most appreciated by him is the flexibility of Tom Hanks and his multiple roles taken on. I, while agreeing tremendously with this statement, gravitate more towards the soundtrack, featuring the talented Josh Groban.
This just goes to show that no person is alike in thinking, which supports that no person alike will view a film the same way. While divided in thought, we are all united in our love for the warm holiday feelings that come with watching our favorite scenes.
