Mickey’s Christmas Carol – (1983)

Director: Bunny Mattinson Starring: (voices) Alan Young, Wayne Allwine, Hal Smith, Will Ryan, Eddie Carroll, Dick Billingsley, Patricia Parris

With all the remakes of “A Christmas Carol” it’s nice to watch one that actually captures a warm, Christmas spirit. This Disney and Mickey Mouse’s version of Dicken’s classic is definitely that. Goofy plays the ghost, Mickey is the underpaid business partner, Scrooge McDuck plays Scrooge, Daisy Duck plays the love interest. This cartoon is the ultimate children’s story of “A Christmas Carol” (1984 Oscar winner for Best Short Animated).

Rudolf the Red Nose Reindeer – (1964)

Director: Larry Roemer Starring: Billie Mae Richards, Burl Ives, Paul Soles

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer has become a Christmas tradition for millions of families. While the stop-motion animation in Rudolph may seem primitive by contemporary standards, it’s still a visually effective piece, thanks in large part to the simple but engaging character design. More importantly, the script is a real winner, with lovable and clearly drawn characters, amusing dialogue and a heartwarming, captivating story.

A Charlie Brown Christmas – (1965)

Director: Bill Melendez Starring: (voice) Peter Robbins, Bill Melendez, Chris Doran, Christopher Shea, Katherine Steinberg

Like The Snowman and Rudolf the Red Nose Reindeer, this movie was made for TV and to this day warms my heart reminding me of the happiness of the season. Charlie Brown finds himself depressed as the Christmas season approaches and can’t figure out why he isn’t on board with the decking the halls and being jolly. Until his friends rallies up to decorate his tiny tree. Simple drawings, a gently twisting story, Charles Schultz’s beloved characters, and Vince Guaraldi’s lively musical score combine to make this animation something the entire family will want to watch every year.