With Christmas preparations in full swing, television is filled with holiday movie favorites. Some stations started running Christmas movies 24/7 even before Thanksgiving. Every night, viewers can find an assortment of family friendly selections.
This week’s writing prompts are all about holiday movies and television specials.
WEEK OF DECEMBER 6, 2015
SUNDAY
It’s A Wonderful Life — A Christmas classic in which George Baily gets the chance to see what his hometown and family and friends would be like if he had never been born. He learns that even though his life didn’t turn out like he’d imagined, he was blessed with people who cared about him, and that he made a difference in their lives.
Write about a person who has made a difference in your life through small, simple gestures. Has someone brought you a meal when you were sick? Did a neighbor pick WEEK OF DECEMBER 6, 2015up your mail or mow your lawn while you were out of town?
MONDAY
The Polar Express – A relatively new favorite, a young boy starts to doubt the existence of Santa Claus. He goes on a magical adventure aboard a train to the North Pole.
Write about something that you believe signifies the magic of the Christmas season, either from a religious perspective, or from images focused on your favorite traditions and events.
TUESDAY
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation – This movie shows the lighter side of Christmas through the antics of Clark Griswold. He wants a big family Christmas. In spite of the crazy relatives and mishaps along the way, the Griswolds strive to make the best of their time together.
Write about a memorable/humorous Christmas experience with your family. Any mishaps with light displays gone wrong? Pets destroying the tree?
WEDNESDAY
Home Alone – Young Kevin is accidently left behind when his family leaves for Christmas vacation. When bungling would-be burglars try to break in, Kevin shows he can take care of himself. But he also learns that he needs his family.
Write about a time when you couldn’t be with family for the holidays, or when a family member/friend couldn’t make it to a get-together.
THURSDAY
How the Grinch Stole Christmas – Whether you prefer the original animated version or the Jim Caray live action version, The Grinch is on many people’s lists of holiday favorites. The Grinch wreaks havoc on Whoville, trying to steal Christmas because of his hatred of the holiday. When the Whos still gather to celebrate, The Grinch realizes Christmas isn’t about the presents or the big meals; it’s about people and community.
Write about a time when your holiday plans didn’t turn out as expected. What went wrong? How did you end up celebrating? Did the mishaps change your views on Christmas or add any new traditions for your family?
FRIDAY
A Christmas Carol – There are dozens of versions of the story originally written by Charles Dickens, but the same basic plot prevails. Ebenezer Scrooge hates Christmas, and pretty much everything except money. During the night, three spirits visit him in an effort to teach him the value of Christmas spirit.
Write about a special person who demonstrates the value of “Christmas spirit.” How does this person show this spirit to others?
SATURDAY
Charlie Brown Christmas – My personal favorite animated Christmas special celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. Charlie Brown, frustrated by the growing commercialism of Christmas, finds himself depressed and confused. He questions what Christmas really means. Thanks to Linus reciting the Biblical story of Christmas and a sad little tree who needs him, Charlie sees that Christmas isn’t about the lights and pageants.
What is your favorite Christmas special? What is it about the show/movie that helps you embrace the “true meaning of Christmas,” as Charlie Brown asks?
Happy Writing!
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