Action-Packed Holidays: Action Movies with a Christmas Twist
Ho ho ho, movie buffs! It's that time of the year again, and while we all love a good Christmas classic, sometimes you just need a bit more action under the mistletoe. So, grab your mince pies and let's dive into the best action movies with a Christmas theme that'll make your holidays explode with excitement! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and action movies with christmas.
Die Hard (1988)
Kicking off our list is the granddaddy of all Christmas action movies, Die Hard. This classic follows NYPD officer John McClane (Bruce Willis) as he takes on a group of terrorists who have taken over a Los Angeles skyscraper during a Christmas party. With its iconic one-liners, memorable action sequences, and a touch of Christmas cheer, Die Hard is a must-watch for any action fan celebrating the holidays.
Did you know? Die Hard was originally meant to be a sequel to the TV movie "The Concrete Jungle," but the creative team decided to start fresh and make it a standalone film.
Lethal Weapon (1987)
Another '80s action classic with a Christmas setting, Lethal Weapon pairs up mismatched LAPD detectives Martin Riggs (Mel Gibson) and Roger Murtaugh (Danny Glover) to take down a drug lord. With its explosive action, witty banter, and a sprinkle of holiday spirit, this buddy cop flick is the perfect stocking stuffer for action movie lovers. Plus, who can resist the iconic scene where Riggs slides down a banister to the tune of "Jingle Bell Rock"?
Fun fact: The film's title refers to the lethal combination of Riggs' reckless behavior and Murtaugh's by-the-book approach to police work.
Gremlins (1984)
Gremlins might not be your typical action movie, but this horror-comedy definitely delivers on the action front, all while keeping with the Christmas theme. When Billy Peltzer (Zach Galligan) receives a mysterious pet called a Mogwai for Christmas, he soon learns that keeping it alive is no easy task. With its dark humor, practical effects, and a terrifying Christmas shopping mall scene, Gremlins is a unique and thrilling holiday treat.
Did you know? The film was initially intended to be a live-action/animated hybrid, with the gremlins being brought to life using stop-motion animation. However, the creative team ultimately decided to go with practical effects instead.
The Long Kiss Goodnight (1996)
This underrated gem follows Samantha Caine (Geena Davis), a schoolteacher who discovers she was once a government assassin suffering from amnesia. Teaming up with a private investigator (Samuel L. Jackson), she sets out to uncover her past and stop a terrorist plot – all while trying to enjoy a quiet Christmas with her family. With its twisty plot, memorable action sequences, and a touch of holiday cheer, The Long Kiss Goodnight is a hidden gem that deserves a spot on your Christmas watchlist.
Fun fact: The film's title is a reference to the phrase "goodnight, Irene," which is sung in the film's climactic scene.
Jingle All the Way (1996)
Now, let's lighten the mood with a classic Christmas comedy that's got a surprising amount of action: Jingle All the Way. In this hilarious fish-out-of-water tale, workaholic father Howard Langston (Arnold Schwarzenegger) goes to great lengths to buy his son the must-have Christmas gift, a Turbo Man action figure. With its over-the-top action, slapstick humor, and a memorable performance by Sinbad as Howard's rival, Jingle All the Way is a guaranteed holiday laugh-fest.
Did you know? The film's original title was "Cannonball Christmas," but it was later changed to "Jingle All the Way" to better reflect the story's focus on the holiday season.
Action Movies with a Christmas Theme: The Verdict
So, there you have it, folks! Whether you're in the mood for a classic action flick with a holiday twist or a hilarious comedy that'll have you laughing all the way to the New Year, these action movies with a Christmas theme have got you covered. So, grab some popcorn, get cozy by the fire, and enjoy the best of both worlds this holiday season. Happy viewing, and remember: Yippee-ki-yay, motherf*ker* – it's Christmas, after all!
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