Consider This from NPR What makes a true Christmas movie?
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Dec 25, 2024 
Mark Rivers, an NPR producer and Christmas movie classification expert, dives into the heated debate over what defines a true Christmas movie. He shines a light on iconic films like 'Die Hard' and 'Elf,' offering a unique classification system that challenges conventional wisdom. Rivers discusses how emotional resonance and holiday themes influence our connections to these films. He also explores the concept of tiered Christmas movies, highlighting how some use the holiday as mere backdrop, making the discourse both entertaining and thought-provoking.
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Three Tiers of Christmas Movies
- Christmas movies can be categorized into three tiers based on Christmas's role in the film.
- Tier one films focus on Christmas as the main subject; tier two films use Christmas to instigate the plot; and tier three films use Christmas ornamentally.
It's a Wonderful Life: A Tier Two Christmas Movie?
- Marc Rivers argues that "It's a Wonderful Life," despite its popularity, is a tier two Christmas movie.
- He believes the core themes of depression and life assessment are not dependent on the Christmas setting.
Die Hard: Another Tier Two Contender
- Similar to "It's a Wonderful Life," Die Hard is also classified as a tier two Christmas movie.
- The Christmas setting is not essential to the plot, which could occur at any work party.