With the holiday season bringing joy and festive spirit, beloved actors Toni Collette and Andrea Riseborough recently opened up about their favorite Christmas films of all time. During an engaging interview with ScreenRant’s Liam Crowley, the duo not only discussed their latest film “Goodbye June” but also shared which holiday movies hold a special place in their hearts. Their picks are two classic Christmas films that many fans cherish: The Polar Express and The Muppet Christmas Carol.
Toni Collette’s Favorite: The Polar Express
Toni Collette revealed her deep affection for the 2004 animated holiday film The Polar Express, a timeless tale that continues to captivate audiences season after season. Directed by Robert Zemeckis and based on Chris Van Allsburg’s beloved children’s book, this movie tells the story of a young boy who embarks on a magical journey aboard a mysterious train headed to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Along the way, he and other children face various adventures that help them rediscover the true magic and belief behind Santa Claus.
The film’s unique animation style and heartwarming narrative are enhanced by the versatile talents of Tom Hanks, who voices multiple key characters including the conductor, Santa Claus, and even Ebenezer Scrooge. Alongside him, Josh Hutcherson, Nona Gaye, and Peter Scolari lend their voices to the story’s young heroes and memorable characters.
Toni Collette’s love for The Polar Express is relatable for many fans who appreciate how the film captures the wonder and enchantment of the holiday season. Its themes of belief, hope, and childhood innocence make it an enduring Christmas classic.
Andrea Riseborough’s Beloved Classic: The Muppet Christmas Carol
On the other hand, Andrea Riseborough shared her admiration for the 1992 film The Muppet Christmas Carol, a delightful musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ timeless story. Recently, Riseborough had the chance to re-watch it on film at the Tyneside Cinema in northeast England, which deepened her appreciation for its beautiful production design.
Directed by Brian Henson, The Muppet Christmas Carol follows the traditional plot of Ebenezer Scrooge, portrayed by Michael Caine, encountering the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. What sets this film apart is its lovable cast of Muppet characters, led by Kermit the Frog as Bob Cratchit, Miss Piggy, and Gonzo serving as the eccentric yet earnest narrator.
The film perfectly blends humor, music, and heart, making it not only an entertaining watch but also a meaningful retelling of one of the most cherished Christmas stories. Andrea Riseborough’s fondness for this movie highlights the timeless appeal of Dickens’ narrative when brought to life with the charm of the Muppets.
Exploring “Goodbye June”: A New Take on Family & Christmas
Both Toni Collette and Andrea Riseborough star in the new Christmas family drama Goodbye June, directed by Kate Winslet. This poignant film explores complex family relationships against the backdrop of the festive season.
The story centers on June, played by Helen Mirren, who is terminally ill. Before Christmas, her four adult children come together to visit her. What follows is a deeply emotional journey as the siblings confront past family drama and navigate their complicated ties with their father, portrayed by Timothy Spall, all while coping with the impending loss of their mother.
Goodbye June offers viewers a heartfelt blend of drama and holiday spirit, providing a fresh and realistic look at family dynamics during Christmas. Currently, the film is available to stream on Netflix, offering an opportunity for viewers to experience this touching narrative during the holiday season.
The Enduring Magic of Christmas Films
Christmas movies like The Polar Express and The Muppet Christmas Carol continue to resonate with audiences because they evoke feelings of nostalgia, hope, and togetherness. The selections of Toni Collette and Andrea Riseborough underscore how holiday films can offer not just entertainment but also comfort and inspiration during the festive season.
From magical journeys to heartwarming musical tales and even sobering family dramas, Christmas films have the power to bring people together and remind us of the importance of love, belief, and reconciliation.
Conclusion
In summary, Toni Collette and Andrea Riseborough have shared their heartfelt favorite Christmas movies: The Polar Express and The Muppet Christmas Carol. Both films represent classic holiday storytelling full of charm and emotional depth. Meanwhile, their latest project Goodbye June adds a fresh family drama to the Christmas film genre, exploring themes of love, loss, and reconciliation during the holidays. Share your thoughts in the comments and explore more at keeperfacts.com.
