1.
Last Holiday (2006)
MARQUISE MAYS, DIRECTOR OF BLINDSPOT
After learning that she has a terminal illness, Georgia Byrd (Queen Latifah) withdraws her life savings and travels to Europe. This film expresses a form of freedom I can only imagine – to truly live life on your own terms with no fear or doubt. This is the perfect comfort movie when the woes of life creep in during the wintertime.
2.
Black Christmas (1974)
DREW BRITTON, DIRECTOR OF BACK AT THE STAIRCASE
A film that was way ahead of its time in terms of horror innovation – its camerawork, performances, atmosphere. Halloween (1978) would borrow heavily from this holiday fright flick. Not to mention, it has one of the greatest final moments of all time … and no, it’s not a jump scare.
It’s time to pick your Milwaukee favorites for the year!
3.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
BRAD LICHTENSTEIN, DIRECTOR OF WHEN CLAUDE GOT SHOT
Tim Burton’s storytelling, animation and style is entirely unique. I love it! His world is spooky wonderful in this tale, plus I love that it has the voices of Pee Wee Herman playing Lock, Chris Sarandon of The Princess Bride fame playing Jack, and of course Ken Page playing Oogie Boogie.
4.
Home Alone (1990)
CARA OGBURN, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR AT MILWAUKEE FILM
I have a distinct memory of watching this film in a theater that was packed and feeling the energy as we all experienced the roller coaster of emotions that is Kevin McAllister’s holiday season. The film captures the deep importance of family in such an unexpected and fun way.
