The holidays are a time that people come together to celebrate being with their loved ones and finding happiness in the holiday spirit. With the holidays, it is also a time when people snuggle up on the couch and have some classic winter goodies like hot chocolate and put on a movie. Holiday season is the break that a lot of people, especially college students, look forward to every year because it finally means the long-awaited break from all the schoolwork has arrived. I am always excited to see my family, listen to Christmas music, and watch my favorite Christmas movies. 

My personal favorite Christmas movie is “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” directed by Ron Howard. The 2000 film featuring actors such as Jim Carrey, Christine Baranski, Taylor Momsen and more is based on Dr. Seuss’ children’s book. Jim Carrey plays the Grinch, who is eager to wreck the Christmas season for citizens of Whoville. The Grinch, who lives on the top of a massive mountain with his dog Max, hates Christmas and the joy that it brings people. His hatred for Christmas began as a kid when he was mistreated by classmates and held onto the bad memories from childhood. When Christmas time comes around, he begins to steal gifts, decorations and anything else that might make people happy around Christmas time.  

However, as the movie goes on, the Grinch encounters Cindy Lou Who, a young girl who loves Christmas and is trying to spread holiday cheer. Cindy tries to change the mindset of the Grinch and show that the real meaning of Christmas is the impact of love. Even though after all these years the Grinch has hated the holidays, he begins to break out of his shell and be more understanding about the purpose of Christmas.  

The newfound friendship between the Grinch and Cindy shows that you have to look beyond the front that someone puts up because deep down, everyone just wants to feel loved and valued. The Grinch learned that stealing presents did not take away Whoville’s Christmas spirit because that was not what was important to them, instead, the love and quality time spent with others is what truly mattered.  

Overall, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” is a Christmas film that offers humor, life lessons and will warm your heart seeing all the happiness from the people of Whoville. It is a must watch during the holiday season.