Now it's December, it officially means you're allowed to watch 'Elf'. Oh, who are we trying to kid? We know you've watched it twice already and have already contemplated more.
So, put down that copy of 'Jack Frost' (it's for the best, anyway), and take a look at this eclectic collection of festive films screening across Bristol. From thought-provoking documentaries to feel good classics, you'll find something to suit whatever the mood you're in:
Bethlehem: Hidden From View
As the season of goodwill, it's important we also consider those less fortunate. Presented by Truthout Cinema, 'Bethlehem: Hidden From View' is a sobering 28-minute documentary about the holy town of Bethlehem and its neighbouring Hebron.
Told through the eyes of local people – both Palestinian and Israeli – the film looks into the lives of Palestinian Christians who find them selves caught in its confines during a time of conflict.
'Bethlehem: Hidden from View'. Monday December 7. Arts House Cafe, 108A Stokes Croft, BS1 3RU. More information here.
Santa Claus vs. The Devil
The Bristol Bad Film Club returns to do what it does best, with a screening of the 1959 curiosity that is 'Santa Claus vs. The Devil'.
This wacky film features an English-dubbed Mexican Santa who lives in space with Merlin and a host of racially stereotypical children. Disaster strikes when the devil appears and attempts to ruin Christmas by killing Santa. A must-see for any discerning film fan (cough).
Santa Claus vs. The Devil. Thursday December 10. Trinity Centre, Trinity Rd, Bristol, Avon BS2 0NW. More information here.
Hendomime: A Weirder Winterland
Sarah MacFarlane
The Cube Microplex presents an unusual evening of merriment and unseasoned cheer. While not a film screening, this evening will allow you to become the hero of your own Christmas blockbuster, and take part in an interactive pantomime that promises to be an event not to be forgotten.
From Valley Girl Xmas Eva to Christmas-themed audio experiments, get merrily-on-high on the festive cheer in Bristol’s very own 'Mistleplex'. Entry is free – all you have to do is bring an item of your choosing to swap in Santa’s Grotto.
'Hendomime: A Weirder Winterland'. Saturday December 12, The Cube Complex, Dove Street South, Bristol BS2 8JD. More information here.
Life of Brian
It has been said that a 'Monty Python' movie is only successful if it offends everyone in the audience at least once, and 'Life of Brian' is no exception.
From its holy level wit and on point timing, it's as sharp as it's wittingly blasphemous. Then, just when you think it’s done everything that it has to do, it makes you confront your own kinks and oddities, and laugh at them.
'Life of Brian'. Monday December 14. Arts House Cafe, 108A Stokes Croft, BS1 3RU. More information here.
Gremlins Double Bill
If the Cube's Winterland events sounds too unusual for your tastes, but you still fancy some unconventional festive movie viewing, then back-to-back screenings of 'Gremlins' and 'Gremlins 2: The New Batch' should fit the bill nicely.
These dark comedies – starring the adorable Mogwai and mischievous Gremlins – will get you into the holiday mood, and remind every '80s kid what they really wanted to unwrap on Christmas Day.
Gremlins Double Bill. Thursday December 17. The Cube Complex, Dove Street South, Bristol BS2 8JD. More information here.
It’s a Wonderful Life
Downcast George Bailey (James Stewart) totters on the brink of death when news of his mortgage company’s failure comes crashing down on him one snowy Christmas Eve. It's only when 292 year old guardian angel intervenes, that Bailey is shown what would have been the case if he has never been born.
Rated as top Christmas movie of all time, 'It’s a Wonderful Life' is a Christmas classic and one of the most heart-warming films ever made. This festive gem is guaranteed to melt even the hardest of Scroogey hearts.
'It's a Wonderful Life'. December 18-23, Watershed, 1 Canon's Road, Bristol, BS1 5TX. Booking required. More information here.
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