Drafting the Best Christmas Movies of All Time

Everyone has strong opinions about Christmas movies — what counts, what’s overrated, and what absolutely belongs in the rotation every December. On The Height Differential, Nick (Team Small) and Neil (Team Tall) settled the debate the only way that makes sense: a draft.

The goal wasn’t to find the most critically acclaimed films, but the movies people actually watch every year, quote endlessly, and argue about with their families. Here’s how the Best Christmas Movies Draft played out.

Round 1

Christmas Vacation

Team Small

The safest pick in the draft and maybe the most universally loved Christmas movie ever. Christmas Vacation is endlessly quotable, painfully relatable, and somehow funnier every year. From Clark’s optimism to Cousin Eddie’s chaos, it’s the gold standard for holiday comedies — and a no-brainer at No. 1.

Round 2

A Christmas Story

Team Tall

This pick sparked immediate nostalgia. Whether it’s Ralphie’s obsession with the Red Ryder BB gun or the leg lamp that refuses to be ignored, A Christmas Story is a staple of Christmas Day. It’s not flashy, but it’s comfort food — and for many families, it’s on all day long.

Round 3

Home Alone

Team Tall

A near-perfect blend of comedy, heart, and slapstick chaos. Kevin McCallister’s battle against the Wet Bandits is still hilarious decades later, and the soundtrack alone makes it feel like Christmas. Few movies are as rewatchable or as ingrained in pop culture as Home Alone.

Round 4

Elf

Team Small

Will Ferrell’s Elf has aged incredibly well for a modern Christmas movie. It’s quotable, absurd, and surprisingly heartfelt. Buddy the Elf somehow appeals to kids, adults, and cynical viewers alike — and that balance makes it one of the best holiday films of the last 25 years.

Round 5

Home Alone 2: Lost in New York

Team Small

Sequels don’t usually belong in these drafts — except this one. Bigger traps, higher stakes, and New York City at Christmas give Home Alone 2 a case as one of the rare sequels that can go toe-to-toe with the original. It may not surpass Home Alone, but it absolutely earns its spot.

Round 6

The Santa Clause

Team Tall

Tim Allen’s transformation from reluctant dad to Santa Claus is peak 90s holiday storytelling. The Santa Clause blends family, magic, and comedy in a way that still works today, making it a reliable pick for any Christmas movie draft.

Round 7

Just Friends

Team Tall

The wild card. Technically not a traditional Christmas movie — but it’s set during the holidays, endlessly quotable, and features Ryan Reynolds at his most unhinged… including a version of him wearing a fat suit. Love it or hate it, Just Friends has earned cult-classic Christmas status.

Round 8

Bad Santa

Team Small

Every Christmas list needs a little chaos. Bad Santa is crude, cynical, and absolutely not for kids — which is exactly why it works. Billy Bob Thornton’s anti-hero take on the holiday season makes this a perfect late-round steal and a strong counter to the feel-good classics.

Final Thoughts

This draft proves one thing: Christmas movies mean different things to different people. Some want nostalgia. Some want laughs. Others want something completely unhinged.

So now the debate shifts to you:

Who won the draft — Team Tall or Team Small?
Which movie should’ve gone higher?
And what Christmas classic did we leave off the board entirely?

Argue away — it’s the most wonderful time of the year.