By Michelle Lim
Staff Writer
Many people place “Elf” or “Home Alone” high on their Christmas movie list—movies that showcase the traditional family film with Santa, snow and flying paint cans. However, many miss out on underrated films that perfectly capture the holiday spirit. Here are two atypical Christmas movies that are worth the watch.
“Tokyo Godfathers”
Rating: 10/10
Stream it on Crackle; rent it on Amazon Prime
Video, Google Play, YouTube and Vudu.
“Tokyo Godfathers” is a Japanese animation directed by Satoshi Kon and is the perfect film to watch during the holiday season. While the movie does not focus entirely on Christmas, the story is set on Christmas Day and has the traditional holiday themes of family, miracles and dreams.
The story begins with three friends experiencing homelessness who come across an abandoned baby. Unexpectedly, the friends take in the child and make it their mission to find the baby’s parents. “Tokyo Godfathers” shows humanity even in the most unassuming characters who go out of their way to protect others.
The plotline follows the group in their journey to care for the abandoned child, and along the way viewers glance into the adverse backstories of each of the friends. This film has something for everyone. It illustrates the relationships between the rich and the poor, the young and the old and even addresses gender stereotypes.
Far from a Hallmark Christmas film, “Tokyo Godfathers” touches on misfortune, Japanese society and most of all, the importance of family. Despite its dark undertones, the movie shows the heartwarming connection between the friends and personifies the Christmas spirit.
“Silver Linings Playbook”
Rating: 8/10
Stream it on Netflix; rent it on Amazon Prime
Video, Google Play, iTunes, YouTube and
Vudu.
“Silver Linings Playbook” is an eccentric romantic comedy which follows a man after he is released from a psychiatric hospital and moves in with his parents. He then meets a newly widowed woman and the two share a connection through their outrageous personalities. Both characters struggle with mental illness and grow closer as the film progresses.
This film is unexpectedly heartwarming and thrilling due to the chemistry between the chaotic duo. From unrelenting banter to emotional confessions, “Silver Linings Playbook” is a rollercoaster from start to finish. The film explores mental illness with compassion and depicts the pair as people who have flaws, hopes and dreams.
A refreshing change from traditional Christmas movies, “Silver Linings Playbook” is an exciting bundle of chaos and liveliness during the holiday season. It introduces the subtle Christmas themes of love, family and vulnerability in a hilarious and touching display. This film reminds their viewers to appreciate the people around them because everyone is flawed in one way or another.