It's that time of year again when we get to enjoy our favourite Christmas films! Although I may not be able to watch all (or any) of these movies this year, due to my little ones' control over the TV, I'd still like to share my top picks for a cozy watch over Christmas. Here are some of my go-to festive choices:

On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969)

On Her Majesty's Secret Service is not only my favourite Bond film, but also the best one in my opinion. George Lazenby's portrayal of Bond in this partially Christmas-set film is great and it's a shame he only played the role once. The supporting cast, including Telly Savalas, Diana Rigg and George Baker, along with the regulars, are all fantastic as well. And let's not forget about the music - the John Barry theme tune is the epitome of Bond, while the Louis Armstrong number adds an emotional depth that is unique to this movie. ‘No Time to Die’ quoted it in the score, and it’s clear they were trying to reach the same emotional heights. OHMSS is like a warm cup of Gluhwein in an alpine chalet, even with the shocking ending.

It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)

Initially overlooked upon its release, this film has since gained a huge following and is now regarded as one of the greatest Christmas movies ever made. However, it's much more than just a Christmas film. The movie's success relies on James Stewart's incredible performance, as he transforms from an optimistic young man to a despairing, suicidal father. The scenes in which he contemplates taking his own life and later discovers the impact his absence would have on the world are heart-wrenching. It's not a sappy film, and when you consider that Stewart had just returned from serving as a pilot in World War II, the emotion of the movie takes on a whole new level. Even now, I can't watch the final scene of "Auld Lang Syne" without feeling deeply moved (and greetin’). It's a true masterpiece of cinema.

The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)

A Christmas Carol by Dickens is the greatest story ever told, and has been filmed dozens of times. Trust the Muppets to do it the best. Surprisingly faithful, huge tracts of Dickens’ dialogue are present here, among the songs and dances. Of course, what makes it fly is Sir Michael Caine’s performance as Scrooge - famously he plays it like he’s onstage for the Royal Shakespeare Company! I love this, and it’s one I am trying to get the kids hooked on…

Evil Under the Sun (1982)

Now, what is Christmassy about a film set on a Mediterranean Island and concerning a murder plot on a beach in high summer? Well, probably not a lot at face value, but Agatha Christie and Christmas go together like Turkey and Cranberry and this gets shown most years, for the simple reason that people love it. The mystery is one of Christie’s best and this version is dripping in camp, making it perfect for a chocolate filled afternoon at Twixmas. Diana Rigg and Maggie Smith participate in a Dame-off to see who can be the most acerbic. It’s brilliant! It will be on the telly again this year, along with the more serious minded ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ and the equally jolly murder fest ‘Death on The Nile’.

Love Actually (2003)

Every year around mid-November, the debate about Love Actually begins. It's now considered the epitome of bad taste from the 00s, a sort of big screen Little Britain — fat jokes, predatory behaviour, lack of diversity, dubious sexual politics, and so on. And while it's true that over the years, parts of the film have aged poorly, I must admit that I was into movies in a big way in 2003 when it came out, and even then it was panned for its lack of diversity… The truth is that Love Actually is a bit of a mixed bag, as you'd expect from a movie with nine interconnected stories. Some parts are great, and others not so much. When it's good, though, it's absolutely glorious. Bill Nighy's career-defining performance as Billy Mack, with Gregor Fisher's fantastic support, is a standout. Heart-wrenching scenes with Emma Thompson and Alan Rickman, and Laura Linney producing a superb performance, are some of the most poignant moments in the film. Despite the criticisms from critics and tastemakers, Love Actually continues to do great numbers every year and it’s one I love, actually.

Mary Poppins Returns (2018)

I adore musicals, especially the timeless classics like 'My Fair Lady', 'Guys and Dolls', and 'The Sound of Music'. Whenever I can sneak in two and half hours between Christmas and New Year, watching one of these films is a real treat. However, I'm equally invested in the modern musical scene, as it keeps the tradition alive in the 21st century. One of the best examples is 'Mary Poppins Returns.' Although it's a bit long, much like the original, it's filled to the brim with amazing tunes and Emily Blunt's fantastic performance as the magical nanny. Marc Shaiman's music is a beautiful nod to the classics, and anything with Lin-Manuel Miranda is on my to watch list - what a talent! The wee cameo appearances by veteran musical stars add to the charm, making this film the perfect choice for families this Christmas season. In fact, in my opinion, it's a strong contender for the best family movie of the past two decades.

There you go, a handful of films I will hopefully catch over the next week or two. Ask me to write a list tomorrow and it could be quite different! At this time of year it’s almost expected to do a bit of lounging and wallowing in a film or two, so get the comfy joggers out and settle down to your own favourites. What did I miss? Let me know in the comments!

12 Days of Blogmas: Day Ten - My Christmas Films