82. Christmas 2016 Special, Favourite Christmas movies

20 movies in 90 minutes ... and breathe. Welcome to They Don't Make 'Em Like They Used To. We decided to give in to the Christmas Spirit and tonight, we're talking FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS MOVIES on the Podcast. People dropped us a few lines as to what their Favourite Christmas movie was and why. We tried to get through them all (in 90 minutes). Great Christmas celebration.Merry Christmas and welcome to a festive edition of They Don’t Make ‘Em Like They Used To, broadcast from Sunshine Radio at St Mary's Hospital. In this supersized holiday episode, host Tosin Ajayi is joined by resident experts Sharon Bollen and Shaun Harris to explore the films that define the Christmas spirit.The team dives deep into the "rules" of what makes a true Christmas classic—from the essential character arc of redemption to the nostalgic quality of films we grow up watching year after year.The Rom-Com Staple: The Holiday (2006)Tosin highlights this modern favourite, focusing on the lush Hans Zimmer score and the themes of friendship and new beginnings.The Quintessential Classic: It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)We explore why Frank Capra’s masterpiece remains the ultimate Christmas film. The team discusses its realistic (and sometimes bleak) portrayal of life’s struggles and George Bailey's heartwarming journey toward gratitude.Musical Joy: White Christmas (1954)Sharon defends this "slice of joy in celluloid," praising its spectacular dance routines, vivid color, and the legendary Bing Crosby.The "Is it a Christmas Movie?" Debate: Die Hard (1988)The hosts tackle the long-standing debate, firmly siding with those who call it a Christmas essential. They break down the film's festive setting, its hidden message of family reconciliation, and Alan Rickman's "pantomime villain" performance.Darker Delights: The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) & Gremlins (1984)From the unique stop-motion world of Jack Skellington to the chaotic, dark humor of Mogwais gone wrong, we look at the films that add a touch of the uncanny to the holidays.Please note that while the team discusses the impact of iconic holiday scores—such as the works of Hans Zimmer, Danny Elfman, and the timeless vocals of Bing Crosby—the full music tracks have been edited out of this podcast version due to licensing restrictions.Join Tosin, Sharon, and Shaun as they unwrap the best of holiday cinema and wish you a very Merry Christmas!