10 'Alternative' Christmas Films That Still Employ Classic Festive Themes

6. Oh Don't Worry If You're The World's Worst Parents...It's Christmas: Home Alone (And Home Alone 2: Lost In New York)

But is it not a 'classic Christmas film' you might ask? Well my argument to that is that 1) this film can be watched at any time of the year (though December is perfect for it) and 2) it would have worked equally as well if it hadn't been set at Christmas time. Christmas is only a small element of Home Alone, but it adds to the charm. I watched this again with my family last weekend. And even in my thirties, this film is still brilliant. I still laugh at the blow torch to the head, the girly scream from Marv when Kevin sticks the tarantula on his face, 'you look like a chicken' and best of all... 'Keep the Change You Filthy Animal!' My wife and I were laughing along as much the kids. If you're looking for a film with a big heart that isn't sappy, this might be the film for you. Macaulay Culkin is perfectly cast as the lovable scamp Kevin. He's got a great wit, is wonderfully over expressive, has a violent streak (see the entire final battle) and yet still looks adorable. And talking of that battle...20 minutes of unadulterated violence. Okay, so perhaps if Die Hard is out of the viewing age of your current audience, then trip ropes, paint cans, blow torches, sharp nails, irons and micro machines are good second alternative if you're after some festive violence! But don't worry, if you want a warm fuzzy feeling in your tummy, there are dashes of that too. Kevin connecting with his neighbour in the church as they listen to his granddaughter sing, discussing the love for family, is a lovely little moment in between all the comedy and action. And talking of bad patenting. Let's count the ways Peter and Kate McCallister should have taken a long look at their parenting style after the events of this film. 1) The shut Kevin up in attic without letting him have any food. Poor kid. 2) They leave their children in economy while they enjoy the luxury of first class. Who exactly is looking after them? The oldest child Heather? Judging by the chaos at the start of the film, every other passenger must be ready to gun their parents down by the end of the flight. 3) Oh yeah...they leave Kevin alone for several days. 4) One quick hug at the end of the film and their off to deal with 'washing' and 'cooking'. Get your priorities right... And then one year later, they do it all over again. Someone please call child services...