As a leading UK Script Consultant and UK Script Doctor I very rarely get to take Christmas off. This year is no different. I’ve got scripts that are demanding coverage as well as my own projects (including my feature length directorial debut) all competing for my attention.
So, in what is the final blogpost of a mega busy 2018 I’d like to do the usual and mention some of my favourite films to watch at Christmas, so in no particular order here’s a select few, and no, It’s A Wonderful Life isn’t on this list…
McCabe and Mrs Miller
Beautiful dreamy, romantic western and by far the best film Warren Beatty ever made. The snowy climax is one of my favourite all time endings in a film. This is also my favourite film from director Robert Altman (the famous sound issues in the early scenes soon go away).
The Ice Harvest
A kind of anti-Christmas film that is becoming a seasonal favourite for me. Having a shit Christmas? This should cheer you up. A film noir Christmas comedy that’s as sick as they come.
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
A seasonal classic, nostalgic for the 80s and 90s. Still raises a smile after all these years.
Die Hard and Die Hard 2
Welcome to the Christmas party pal. Die Hard is a Christmas movie, I like the second one too…
The Thing
Snow, Kurt Russell, body horror, some of the greatest practical special effects of all time. A smashing script and a great ending. Didn’t even mention the music… A masterpiece. And one for all the family at Christmas.
Smoke
A real genuine Christmas film all about storytelling, photography, friendship and smoking. A lovely film, will bring a tear to the eye and a smile to the face.
LA Confidential
Good film, great book. Another Christmas staple in my household.
Red Heat
Snow, Arnie, Russia. Walter Hill directs. Worth it for the opening 15 minutes in Moscow – a cult film among Russian speakers. Lovely for an afternoon by the fire…
Have a cool Yule everyone. And see you in 2019.
Matthew Cooper has been a script writer for hire for over 20 years. He’s written for most of the UK soaps, including writing award winning episodes of Emmerdale, EastEnders, Hollyoaks and Family Affairs and has been BAFTA shortlisted and Royal Television Society nominated as a script writer. He’s also a leading UK script consultant. You can find some of his broadcast credits on the IMDb. You can get in touch with Matthew on matcoop23@yahoo.co.uk or hire him on Peopleperhour