By Wendy Willming, Hop City Marketing Manager
It’s that time of year! The holiday movies are on repeat and the drinks are flowing. Maybe my favorite part of the end of the year is putting on nostalgic films and pouring a nice glass to pair with whatever movie I’m cozying up to. Nostalgia, like taste or smell, can trigger memories and get you in or, let’s be honest, out of the holiday spirit. These movies take me to my happy place. While they may not be the most offbeat movies to some, they’re certainly not the Home Alone’s, the Christmas Vacation’s, the It’s a Wonderful Life’s, the Elf’s, etc. being played on repeat right now. And when I post about this on our socials (follow @hopcityatl if you don’t already!), I’d love to hear what your offbeat holiday flicks are and what you’re sipping along with ‘em.
P.S. This was a really hard list to keep short so I’ll add in some honorable mentions at the end. Hopefully this inspires you to hit play on something off the well traveled holiday movie path this year!
BRIDGET JONES’S DIARY - Taking place over 1 year from Christmas to Christmas, this is a very holiday-esque movie. And our girl Bridget drinks a lot of Chardonnay. I’m picking one that is more drinkable in 2024 terms yet still giving you those classic Chardonnay notes.
PAIRING: 2022 Matthiasson "Linda Vista Vineyard," Chardonnay ($35.99) - it’s zesty and bright, just like our beloved Bridget.
THE APARTMENT - A true classic and a heart-tumbling love story set around Christmas and New Year’s in New York City. While it may not be super uplifting, the acting is flawless and the holiday atmosphere is unforgettable. Don’t worry, it ends well and you’ll understand my pairing when you get to the final scene.
PAIRING: Filipa Pato 3B Blanc de Blancs ($19.99) - delicious bubbles that even our main character Baxter can afford.
Extra Credit: make The Tom & Jerry Drink referenced in the movie
KISS KISS BANG BANG - A dark comedy and excellent LA holiday movie (alongside Die Hard - but too obvious for this list!) and one that I hold near and dear. The chemistry between Val Kilmer, Michelle Monaghan and Robert Downey Jr. is a fun ride and like a lot of Shane Black movies, brings some chaotic, festive holiday vibes to the party. Murder mystery too? I’m in.
PAIRING: Vadin-Plateau Renaissance Premier Cru ($49.99) - in true LA fashion, go big and fake it til you make it.
TRADING PLACES - A hilarious and timeless comedy set around Christmas time in Philadelphia with a very fun (and funny) cast. Eddie Murphy steals the show. I just rewatched this one and it’s a classic underrated Christmas movie for a reason.
PAIRING: If you can’t get handed a bottle of whiskey and a handful of cigars by 2 rich men in the back of a fancy car, then pair instead with the opulent, bold Laely Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($45.99).
WHILE YOU WERE SLEEPING - I love Chicago and this is a true Chicago movie. For years my sister and I watched this on repeat around this time of year and it still brings me warm, cozy feelings. While Sandra Bullock and Bill Pullman are perfect, like a lot of Chicago-based movies, there’s a magical band of local Chicago supporting actors who make it glow.
PAIRING: 2023 Prieur Bulles de Pinot ($34.99) - a crisp, lively and well-balanced sparkling wine with a hint of residual sweetness. It’s a delicious hug on a chilly winter’s night just like this movie.
THE NIGHT BEFORE - The fact that we have the first day of Hanukkah AND Christmas Day aligning together this year makes this movie a great watch. It’s just fun and nonstop holiday adulting mayhem. Let the chaos ensue!
PAIRING: Cycling Frog Cran Razz Seltzer 6pk - A tasty seasonal THC bev with 10mg THC + 10mg CBD per 12oz can.
THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL - Ok, I know this one is not offbeat for most of you but it’s a must watch that I love to throw on every year. I grew up with a Laser Disc of this that my Dad still has to this day (look up Laser Discs, kids!). Note from the film nerd: Please watch the extended cut for more magical moments by Michael Caine and the muppet troupe.
PAIRING: St. Agrestis Phony Negroni ($5.99/330mL bottle) - This fantastic non-alcoholic negroni is bitter enough for all of you Scrooges out there!
Honorable Mentions with Quick Pairing Ideas:
IN BRUGES with Straffe Hendrik Brugs Quadrupel Bier ($20.99/4pk)
AUNTIE MAME with a perfectly made martini stirred up by one of our talented bartenders, or make your own at home with Dolin Vermouth de Chambery Dry ($17.99)
THE HUDSUCKER PROXY with a super juicy, fruity PermaGrin Blueberry Dream 10mg THC Elixer ($23.99/4pk)
