The holiday season is right around the corner, and with it comes the opportunity to revisit some of our favorite Christmas movies. While many of these films have become staples of the season, some of them have been followed up with sequels that have left a lot to be desired. But what about the ones that didn’t get a sequel the first time around? Here are five Christmas movies that are worthy of a second chance and a new, hopefully improved, legacy sequel.
The 1985 classic “A Christmas in Court,” starring Danny Aiello and Judi Fierman, is a heartwarming tale of a judge who is sent to a tough neighborhood for community service and learns the true meaning of Christmas. With its rich 80s atmosphere, memorable characters, and poignant message, a sequel could easily pick up where the original left off and continue to explore the lives of the characters as they continue to battle the struggles of the holiday season.
Another 80s gem, “Ernest Saves Christmas,” is a hilarious and irreverent take on the red-suited, four-poster bed-dwelling mall-wizard, Ernest P. Worrell, and his hilarious antics. With his eccentric behavior, slapstick humor, and heart of gold, Ernest would be the perfect candidate for a reboot, allowing modern audiences to discover his zany brand of holiday cheer.
Who can forget the magical 1989 Christmas classic “Prancer”? With its stunning visuals, enchanting music, and Loren Carpenter’s heartwarming performance as the angel Gabriel, a sequel could explore the ongoing impact of the “Prancer” effect, as the town of Antioch continues to change and grow. With the remaining rabbits and new generations, a new story could be spun around the themes of hope, love, and redemption, making it a true Yuletide classic.
1987’s “Nothing is Easy” is a small, intimate, and deeply affecting exploration of the challenges of single parenthood during the holiday season. The film’s poignant look at the lives of those struggling the most during this time of year, as they navigate the holidays, would make a compelling sequel, exploring the characters’ journeys as they adapt to new challenges and triumphs. With its near-documentary feel and stunning performances, “Nothing is Easy” has the potential to be a truly moving, memorable sequel.
A 1992 release, “To Grandmother’s House We Go,” is a light-hearted, fun, and lively look at a young girl’s journey to find her missing grandmother, accompanied by a clever, high-tech pet turkey who becomes her heartwarming sidekick. With its imaginative visuals, clever plot twists, and positive themes, a sequel could comfortably pivot around the characters of Grookie and Jessica, following their growth and relationships, as they navigate new holiday adventures, exploring the magic and wonder of this beloved Christmas classic.