The One Perfect Christmas Movie, According to Rotten Tomatoes

Is there truly a movie that can be labeled as perfect? If you subscribe to the belief that everything created by humans has its flaws, then you might say no. Yet, it’s hard to argue against the brilliance of masterpieces like da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa,” Shakespeare’s “Hamlet,” or Prince’s iconic “Little Red Corvette.” But let’s be clear: perfection isn’t just about precision and technical prowess; it’s often about the spiritual resonance of a piece. Certain films evoke such strong emotions within us that they feel flawless, regardless of any imperfection.

With that lens, we turn to Rotten Tomatoes to discover whether there exists a Christmas film that merits a perfect 100% rating. You might think that no one could dare critique beloved classics like “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “A Christmas Story,” or the cult-favorite “Silent Night, Deadly Night.” But surprising as it may be, there’s a different contender for the title of the ultimate Christmas film, and it might not match your own personal holiday favorite.

What’s that film, you ask? In the spirit of the season, it’s the undeniably delightful “Meet Me in St. Louis,” starring the legendary Judy Garland. Directed by Vincente Minnelli and inspired by Sally Benson’s memoir, this musical showcases a heartwarming tale filled with laughter, tears, romance, and unforgettable music. Beautifully shot in Technicolor, the story unfolds from the summer of 1903 to the spring of 1904, culminating in the grand opening of the Louisiana Purchase World’s Fair.

At its core, the film follows young Esther, played by Garland, through various seasonal moments, culminating in a festive winter celebration featuring the classic “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” One of the film’s greatest strengths is its versatile setting; you can enjoy it at any time of year without feeling out of sync with the holiday spirit. Personally, I’ve reserved it for Christmas, partly because I love introducing the joy of this film to friends who haven’t yet experienced it—many of whom are unaware that “The Trolly Song” originates from this timeless piece.

From start to finish, “Meet Me in St. Louis” radiates happiness and embodies the essence of the holiday season. Thanks to its illustrious Rotten Tomatoes rating, it stands as a film that undeniably delights every single time. So why not spread some holiday cheer and make it a point to watch “Meet Me in St. Louis” this season?