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Christmas is supposed to be a magical time, where the family unite around a nice open fire, drink eggnog, and share stories that commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ.

In the action films of the '80s and '90s, however, this wasn't the case. Classic individual efforts from the likes of John Rambo, Martin Riggs, John McClaine and Batman brought the brutality of the American streets to the cinema screen, taking precedence over the usual “ho ho” family charm.

There was a sense of irony with all the car chases, explosions, fistfights and profanity: They were supposed to dismiss this inaccurate concept of the season being a time when every individual’s life is full of Christmas spirit. But considering the movies became so popular, it is now considered a ritual to sit back, admire and discuss the special effects and stunts of the significant works, in an attempt to spread one’s good will.

Below is a list of the classic action movies that established the concept of heroic entertainment, which are intended to give faith to the depressed, isolated individuals out there around Christmas time.

Die Hard (1988)

Most people’s grandmothers have seen Die Hard by now, which involves the lead character, John McClain (Bruce Willis), being stuck in a skyscraper with a bunch of German terrorists. Now, if ever there were a reason the viewer should think his/her life could be a lot worse then it would have to be this. Have faith, people, 'cause McClain is having a very bad day.

Die Hard 2: Die Harder (1990)

Even on Christmas Eve parking outside an airport will get you a ticket, as demonstrated by the police chief to McClain here. However, the hero’s ability to overcome another group of insane terrorists is just so inspirational that it manages to inject a little spirit into even the chief by the time victory has been achieved. “It’s Christmassssss!” after all.

Ghostbusters II (1989)

What better way to be inspired to get rid of the skeletons from your wardrobe than watching the Ghostbusters clean up the scum of the New York streets? Even after going out of business they still manage to conquer the evil spirits via their determination and team-work. A Christmas dinner well deserved.

First Blood (1982)

Christmas is a subtle aspect of the first Rambo film, and rightly so. Sylvester Stallone finds himself on the run from the law purely because he ventured into a small town for something to eat. Soon enough, war becomes a lesson in decency for the authorative figures, which leaves their turkey quickly going cold.

Batman Returns (1992)

Catwoman is considered to be Batman’s love interest as well as his worst enemy in Tim Burton’s fascinating, and somewhat disturbing, sequel. Is it a coincidence that it takes place at Christmas? Not when she sums up the reality of the time of year with the quote “Mistletoe can be deadly if you eat it. But a kiss can be even deadlier if you mean it.” Be careful who you trust, and never hide behind a mask, is the theme here, it would seem.

Rocky V (1990)

The underdog movie that everyone loves to hate; not that it ever bothered Rocky. He’s a fighter, against the odds, even when he’s lost all his money and his own son and protégé have turned against him. “It’s Christmas, we’re just trying to have a good time,” he says, after dressing up Paulie as a “'90-proof Santa”. Bless him.

Lethal Weapon (1987)

Martin Riggs (Mel Gibson) is on the edge. After the death of his wife, he sits alone in his trailer, drinking, and contemplating suicide on a daily basis. When Roger Murtaugh (Danny Glover) is assigned as his new partner, Riggs slowly begins to find hope, which aids him in fighting back against the bad guys amidst all the Christmas decorations. Victory for the depressive one.  

(C) Andy Carrington, 2008.