If you had to think of your favorite holiday movie, what would it be? For many people, what comes to mind are classic holiday movies that they have watched since they were kids. From Frosty the Snowman to The Nightmare Before Christmas, people often have a personal favorite. That is why many of these holiday movies have become so ingrained within the holiday season culture. Several are often featured in commercials and advertisements during the winter season. This is because of our fond and nostalgic memories for these movies. But because of all of our nostalgia, we may become blind to the actual quality of our favorite holiday films.

“My Favorite holiday movie is A Christmas Story,” said Shayla Johnson, senior. “It is a classic in my family that we watch every year. But I would say that nostalgia is the main reason why I like this movie.”

The danger of becoming blinded by nostalgia for movies, especially holiday movies, is that we may fall victim to being exploited by advertisers trying to make money during this high spending season. If we see a commercial that features the Grinch snooping around Kmart, then we may be more inclined to purchase something we don’t want or need. One of the biggest offenders of this is A Christmas Story. The movie’s various memorable quotes have been turned into merchandise, from “Oh Fudge” candy you can eat to the Red Ryder BB gun. The film has been milked countless times for monetary gain.

“I really like the movie Elf,” said Summer Nelson, senior. “Nostalgia is a factor but I think that the movie is still good enough that I would like it without my connection to it.”

Nostalgia for something isn’t always bad. Watching a holiday movie with family members every year can bring them closer together during a time of togetherness like the holidays. Just be sure that you don’t let those memories become exploited for commercial means.