Christmas is a time for family and friends to get together and watch a great movie, whether it's a romance or a comedy. The following is a list of films that are some of the best Christmas movies to watch over the holiday.

"Carol"

Currently in theaters and hailed as one of the best films of 2015, Todd Haynes' lesbian drama is a beautifully written film that takes place during the holiday season. Haynes' film tells the story of Carol Aird and Therese Belivet and their tumultuous romance in the 1950s.

Anchored by Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara, the film is a gorgeously paced romance, with a great score by Carter Burwell and elegant costumes by Sandy Powell. Cinematographer Edward Lachman and Haynes work together to create elegant frames that also enhance the drama. Both a romance and a period drama, "Carol" is one of those films that stays in audiences' minds for a long time.

"Gremlins"

If families are looking for a thrill ride, then this horror comedy is the perfect film. The 1984 film by Joe Dante tells the story of a boy who inadvertently breaks three important rules concerning his new pet. As a result, he unleashes a horde of malevolently mischievous monsters that create massive chaos in a small town.

"Gremlins" has a little bit of everything, from a suspense sequence at the end where Dante creates a horror atmosphere, to comedic sequences in which the monsters are singing to "Snow White" in a movie theater or drinking beer and playing pool in the local bar. The film's effects might be a bit outdated, but the overall story is so compelling that any flaws should be overlooked.

"How the Grinch Stole Christmas"

Perhaps one of the most beloved Dr. Seuss books of all time, Ron Howard's 2000 adaptation perfectly recreates the atmosphere and the tone of the classic story. For those who don't know, the film tells the story of the vengeful Grinch, who plans to ruin the Christmas holiday for all of the citizens of Whoville.

While some may criticize the film for excess in its production design, the movie is anchored by a committed performance from Jim Carrey that sees the actor at his very best. Nominated for three Academy Awards, Howard's film remains a classic and one of the best Dr. Seuss adaptations of modern times.

"Krampus"

For those who haven't been good this year and are expecting coal in their stocking, "Krampus" is perfect. Based on a German myth, the film by Michael Dougherty tells the story a young boy who summons a Christmas demon during a bad holiday experience.

Like "Gremlins," this film uses both horror and comedy, and benefits from a great cast that includes Toni Collette and Adam Scott. Currently in theaters, this is the only option Hollywood has given to audiences interested in going to the multiplexes.

"The Santa Clause"

Tim Allen's classic "The Santa Clause" is perhaps the most family-friendly on this list. The movie tells the story of a man who accidentally kills Santa on Christmas Eve and magically takes his place. Hailed by critics for being entertaining and honest, the film was so popular that it obtained multiple sequels and spinoffs, and grossed millions at the box office.