Christmas movies come in a variety of different categories and genres. From uproarious family comedies to terrifying slasher flicks, filmmakers have used every possible storytelling technique to make films centered on the topic of Christmas and the holiday season. Although many of these films do not share much in common, they all share the goal of transporting viewers into the Christmas spirit.

The Christmas holiday is celebrated by a diverse and wide-ranging group of people around the world, most of whom enjoy watching movies, but not all of them are satisfied by traditional family Christmas films. Some people prefer biting satire, while others find themselves brought into the Christmas spirit by heart-wrenching dramas. The good news is that there are films to please all of these people during the holiday season.

The comedy genre has produced a number of terrific Christmas movies. Titles like Home Alone, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation and A Christmas Story are holiday classics that are ideal for family viewing. Unfortunately, these movies are not edgy enough for some more mature viewers. Thankfully, movies like Bad Santa and Scrooged exist to give adult viewers the gritty and offbeat style of humor that they appreciate, while offering a unique perspective on the holiday season.

Romantic movies are popular throughout the year, and they are ideal for couples who have just started dating or those who wish to keep the flame of love going. During the holiday season, the movie studios tend to release a few films that are perfect for the hopeless romantics among the moviegoing public. Christmas films like Love Actually and The Preacher's Wife contain a lovely holiday message, but they are also designed to entertain couples and others in the mood for romance with universal messages of love and togetherness.

Some film fans go to the movies to be scared. Slasher flicks, monster movies and thrillers tend to be popular for the Halloween season, but many successful Christmas movies have also incorporated some frightening elements. Movies like Silent Night, Deadly Night and Santa's Slay have become horror movie classics over the years, but they are also favorites of those who want to combine the Christmas spirit with some thrills and chills.

No one enjoys Christmastime more than children, and there are a wealth of Christmas movies that are perfect for kids of all ages -- even those who have been adults for years. Animated movies are extremely popular among children and their parents, and animated Christmas films like The Polar Express and Frosty the Snowman are among some of the most beloved holiday movies. While most animated Christmas films target a youthful audience, some unique animated movies like The Nightmare Before Christmas contain adult themes that more mature audiences can appreciate.

When people think of Christmas movies, they tend to imagine the classic films that get played on television year after year. While many of these movies are terrific and satisfying for those who want to get into the Christmas spirit, there are a number of other movies from different genres that also cater to the Christmas crowd. From romantic comedies to terrifying horror movies, Christmas movies have been made to please all audiences.

© Christmas Movies List 2013