During the Christmas season, the British TV schedules are full of excellent TV programmes and films which aim to provide escapist entertainment for the whole family. Many of the best films showing on TV over the Christmas period are based on fairy tales and classic children’s stories, and this article highlights 15 of the best fairy tale films being shown over the festive period this year. In order to make this list easier to put together, it only includes films which are being shown on Britain's five terrestrial channels (BBC1, BBC2, ITV1, Channel 4 and Channel 5).
Frozen
When's It On? - Saturday 23rd December at 2:50PM (BBC1)
Although overexposure has somewhat diluted the surprise value which made it so popular, Disney's 2013 musical Frozen has firmly established itself as one of the most successful and iconic family films of all time, with its memorable characters, creative twists, and an array of inescapably catchy songs such as 'Let it Go'. Last year, its terrestrial premiere attracted an impressive 4.7 million viewers, and it looks like the story of Anna and Elsa will be a Christmas staple on BBC1 for years to come. Frozen fans with cable might also want to check out Olaf's Frozen Adventure, a 20-minute Christmas special centred on snowman sidekick Olaf, which will air on Sky Cinema on Christmas Day.
Cinderella
When's It On? - Christmas Day at 3:10PM (BBC1)
This Christmas Day, Disney's recent live-action remake of Cinderella enjoys its terrestrial premiere on BBC1, becoming one of the major highlights of their Christmas Day schedule. Director Kenneth Branagh applies his signature spectacular style to the fairy tale, with Downton Abbey star Lily James playing Cinderella and Kate Blanchett as the wicked stepmother Lady Tremaine. This new version gives increased depth and complexity to characters who were mere plot devices in the original (such as the Prince and the Fairy Godmother) but manages to retain the simplicity and charm of the original story. With its incredible visuals, compelling story, and powerful messages about the importance of kindness and tenacity, Cinderella is one of the standouts in Disney's recent crop of live-action remakes, making it excellent entertainment for viewers of all ages.
Dumbo
When's It On? - Christmas Day at 4:30PM (Channel 4)
Disney were struggling financially in 1942, but their adaptation of the obscure short story Dumbo, about an elephant with unusually big ears, was the hit they needed to turn their fortunes around. At just 65 minutes long, Dumbo is far shorter than any of the other movies on this list, but it provides the impressive animation and memorable characters needed to compete with the longer, flashier films. Whilst some elements of Dumbo have not aged well, the simple but timeless story of a misfit learning how to make use of his unique gifts remains universally appealing. A live-action adaptation of this film arrives in 2019, so now is a good time to make yourself familiar with the original.
Song of the Sea
When's It On? - Boxing Day at 6:40AM (Channel 4)
Many people use Boxing Day as an opportunity to enjoy a well-earned rest after the chaos of Christmas Day. However, it is definitely worth getting up early to watch Song of the Sea, an Oscar-nominated movie from the acclaimed animation studio Cartoon Saloon. Like their 2009 film The Secret of Kells, Song of the Sea is based on Irish folklore, using myths about Selkies, fairies and witches as the basis for a unique and magical story. The movie deals with weighty topics such as bereavement, but it has enough comedy and adventure to keep younger audiences entertained, and the relationship between protagonist Billy and his mute younger sister Saoirse is incredibly easy to relate to. However, the best things about Song of the Sea are the beautiful hand-drawn animation and the Celtic-inspired soundtrack. Overall, the movie is a real treat for children and adults alike, and it will hopefully inspire viewers to check out other Cartoon Saloon projects, such as their forthcoming film The Breadwinner.
Mary Poppins
When's It On? - Boxing Day at 3:45PM (BBC1)
Disney's 1964 movie Mary Poppins is easily the most iconic of the numerous live-action films created by the studio, and really deserves its status as a mainstay of Christmas TV. Loosely based on a series of novels by P.L. Travers, it tells the story of a mysterious nanny who arrives at the house of Mr Banks and his family and changes their lives. With memorable performances from Julie Andrews, David Tomlinson and Dick Van Dyke, and the brilliant soundtrack from the Sherman Brothers (who can forget songs like 'Feed the Birds', 'A Spoonful of Sugar' or 'Step in Time'?), Mary Poppins continues to weave its powerful spell on audiences all over the world. The forthcoming sequel, Mary Poppins Returns, is one of the most anticipated films of 2018, but it will find it incredibly difficult to emulate the success and longevity of its predecessor.
The Little Mermaid
When's It On? - Boxing Day at 4:20PM (Channel 4)
When it was released in 1989, Disney's upbeat adventure musical The Little Mermaid was a major critical and commercial success, starting the purple patch known as the Disney Renaissance. Almost three decades after it first arrived in cinemas, it remains one of Disney's most enjoyable movies. Red-headed protagonist Ariel was the first in Disney's long line of adventurous and assertive female leads, and she is joined by a memorable cast of supporting characters, including Sebastian the crab, Flounder the fish, and the wonderfully diabolical baddie Ursula. The movie also features some of the greatest Disney songs ever, including 'Part of Your World', 'Under the Sea' and 'Kiss the Girl'. Even if you take issue with Ariel's search for love, it is impossible to deny the impact of The Little Mermaid - rewatch it yourself and see how much the recent Wonder Woman movie borrowed from it...
Matthew Bourne's Cinderella
When's It On? - Boxing Day at 5:35PM (BBC2)
Although this is technically not a movie, the television broadcast of Matthew Bourne's Cinderella is feature-length, and is definitely worth mentioning in this article. For his spin on Prokofiev's ballet Cinderella, the iconic choreographer/director relocated the traditional story of Cinderella and Prince Charming to WW2-era London. Bourne’s production uses dancing, costumes, sets, and cutting-edge projections to invoke nostalgia for the culture of the period whilst highlighting the chaos and destruction caused by the German bombing raids at the time. If you are unable to see Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella in person at Sadlers Wells Theatre this Christmas, then this TV screening allows you to enjoy it from the comfort of your own home. Seasoned Matthew Bourne fans will have a great time watching this, and for those not familiar with his work, it represents an excellent introduction.
The Princess and the Frog
When's It On? - Wednesday 27th December at 10:45AM (BBC1)
When it was released in 2009, The Princess and the Frog was the first traditionally animated Disney movie in five years, and the first Disney Princess movie since Mulan over a decade earlier. A reworking of The Frog Prince set in 1920s New Orleans, it pays loving tribute to the bayous, parades and jazz music which defined that time and place, whilst also providing a modern and assertive protagonist in the shape of the hard-working Tiana, a waitress who gets mistaken for a princess and ends up going on an incredible adventure. Although it was not successful enough to permanently revive traditional animation, The Princess and the Frog generated renewed interest in Disney's fairy tale formula, paving the way for the likes of Tangled and Frozen. It has often been overshadowed by its successors, but it is a colourful, charming throwback which will entertain viewers of all ages.
The Red Shoes
When's It On? - Wednesday 27th December at 12:10PM (BBC2)
Made by the iconic writer/director duo Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger, The Red Shoes has fascinated and haunted audiences all over the world since it was first released in 1948. The movie centres on Victoria Page, a dancer preparing to star in a ballet based on the titular Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale. Like the protagonist of that story, Victoria finds herself unable to stop dancing, and her inability to control her passion leads to tragedy. With its sumptuous technicolour cinematography, impressively detailed sets, and Moira Shearer’s magnetic performance in the lead role, The Red Shoes has become recognised as one of the greatest British movies of all time. If you haven’t already seen this enthralling and atmospheric movie, this Christmas is the perfect time to check it out for yourself.
Brave
When's It On? - Friday 29th December at 4:20PM (BBC1)
Pixar’s animated films are traditionally set in modern times, with male protagonists, but for their 2012 film Brave, they adopted the signature formula of parent studio Disney with a female-centred adventure story set in ancient Scotland. The rebellious Princess Merida rejects traditional gender roles, choosing to pursue her interest in riding and archery instead of searching for a mate, and her strained relationship with her mother Queen Elinor provides a welcome contrast to Disney’s traditional emphasis on father/daughter dynamics. The Scottish forests and highlands provide Brave with a magical, mystical feel and allow it to maintain the family-friendly appeal of Disney and Pixar’s output, even as it deviates from many of their traditional conventions.
Ever After: A Cinderella Story
When's It On? - Saturday 30th December at 12:50PM (Channel 4)
Ever After is the third adaptation of Cinderella mentioned on this list, but it is definitely unique and entertaining enough to stand out, updating the source material to reflect modern, progressive values whilst staying true to the elements which made it so popular in the first place. In this version, Drew Barrymore plays Danielle, a feisty young woman forced into servitude by her tyrannical stepmother, who finds herself falling in love with the handsome Prince Henry. Set in 16th Century France, Ever After downplays the fantasy elements which define most versions of Cinderella, with the legendary inventor Leonardo Da Vinci taking the place of the Fairy Godmother and using science to help Danielle on her path to a happy ending. However, it provides more than enough adventure, comedy and romance to please fans of the traditional story. Since its release in 1998 Ever After has gained a substantial fanbase, with many regarding it as one of the best adaptations of Cinderella. Any fairy tale enthusiasts who have previously overlooked Ever After should see it during the festive period.
Alice in Wonderland
When’s It On? - Saturday 30th December at 6:20PM (BBC2)
Although Disney had remade some of their animated films in live-action before, Tim Burton’s 2010 adaptation of Alice in Wonderland (both a remake and a sequel at the same time) turned these re-imaginings into the cornerstone of Disney’s live-action division, and helped fuel the growing trend for darker and edgier fairy tale adaptations. Burton’s Wonderland is a grim dystopia, but it allows the director to show off his signature twisted and imaginative visuals. Mia Wazowskia plays a teenage Alice, whilst Burton’s muses Helena Bonham Carter and Johnny Depp play the Queen of Hearts and the Mad Hatter respectively. They are joined by a cast of British acting icons (ranging from Stephen Fry to the late Alan Rickman), who voice the eccentric inhabitants of Wonderland. Alice in Wonderland is one of the darker films on the list, but is still recommended for Tim Burton fans and those who would like an alternative to the more sugary and upbeat fairy tale films traditionally shown over Christmas.
Into the Woods
When's It On? - New Years Eve at 8PM (BBC2)
When it made its debut on Broadway in 1987, Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine's musical Into the Woods attracted the attention of numerous actors and producers with its intelligent deconstruction of classic fairy tales and the messages they teach us. It did not reach the big screen until 2014, but it is testament to the enduring power of Into the Woods that this adaptation featured household names such as James Corden, Emily Blunt, Anna Kendrick, Chris Pine and Meryl Streep in the leading roles. Although several key elements of the source material were cut for the film, most of Sondheim's songs (including 'Hello Little Girl', 'Agony' and the beautiful 'No One is Alone') remain intact, and it is great to see the all-star cast put their spin on these classics.
Hugo
When's It On? - New Years Day at 1:10PM (Channel 4)
Famous for violent, profane and gritty crime movies such as Taxi Driver and Goodfellas, Martin Scorsese is one of the last directors who you would associate with the fairy tale genre. However, his 2011 film Hugo is a magical change of pace, blending fairy tale tropes with early 20th century technology such as movie cameras and automatons. Based on a novel by Brian Selznick, it tells the story of Hugo, a boy living in 1930s Paris, who befriends the daughter of the legendary film-maker George Melies. Melies used pioneering special effects to create a wide array of spectacular silent movies (including one of the first cinematic adaptations of Cinderella), and Hugo provides a fascinating introduction to his life and work. With its incredible visuals and an excellent cast (Including Asa Butterfield as Hugo and Ben Kingsley as George Melies), Hugo is an enthralling tribute to the power of cinema to bring the most incredible dreams and fantasies to life.
Maleficent
When's It On? - New Years Day at 5PM (BBC1)
Following in the path of revisionist fairy tale hits such as Wicked and Once Upon A Time, Maleficent puts a new spin on the titular villain from Sleeping Beauty, showing that the 'Mistress of all evil' is not as nearly as nasty as Disney's 1959 classic would have us believe. In this adaptation, Maleficent seeks revenge on the tyrannical King Stefan, but soon finds herself forming a friendship with Princess Aurora. Although Sleeping Beauty purists will despise the changes made to the characters, it is always interesting to see familiar characters get depicted in new and unusual ways, and Angelina Jolie provides an impressive portrayal of Maleficent, replicating the voice and mannerisms of Disney's iconic villain whilst taking her down a more sympathetic path.
Frozen
When's It On? - Saturday 23rd December at 2:50PM (BBC1)
Although overexposure has somewhat diluted the surprise value which made it so popular, Disney's 2013 musical Frozen has firmly established itself as one of the most successful and iconic family films of all time, with its memorable characters, creative twists, and an array of inescapably catchy songs such as 'Let it Go'. Last year, its terrestrial premiere attracted an impressive 4.7 million viewers, and it looks like the story of Anna and Elsa will be a Christmas staple on BBC1 for years to come. Frozen fans with cable might also want to check out Olaf's Frozen Adventure, a 20-minute Christmas special centred on snowman sidekick Olaf, which will air on Sky Cinema on Christmas Day.
Cinderella
When's It On? - Christmas Day at 3:10PM (BBC1)
This Christmas Day, Disney's recent live-action remake of Cinderella enjoys its terrestrial premiere on BBC1, becoming one of the major highlights of their Christmas Day schedule. Director Kenneth Branagh applies his signature spectacular style to the fairy tale, with Downton Abbey star Lily James playing Cinderella and Kate Blanchett as the wicked stepmother Lady Tremaine. This new version gives increased depth and complexity to characters who were mere plot devices in the original (such as the Prince and the Fairy Godmother) but manages to retain the simplicity and charm of the original story. With its incredible visuals, compelling story, and powerful messages about the importance of kindness and tenacity, Cinderella is one of the standouts in Disney's recent crop of live-action remakes, making it excellent entertainment for viewers of all ages.
Dumbo
When's It On? - Christmas Day at 4:30PM (Channel 4)
Disney were struggling financially in 1942, but their adaptation of the obscure short story Dumbo, about an elephant with unusually big ears, was the hit they needed to turn their fortunes around. At just 65 minutes long, Dumbo is far shorter than any of the other movies on this list, but it provides the impressive animation and memorable characters needed to compete with the longer, flashier films. Whilst some elements of Dumbo have not aged well, the simple but timeless story of a misfit learning how to make use of his unique gifts remains universally appealing. A live-action adaptation of this film arrives in 2019, so now is a good time to make yourself familiar with the original.
Song of the Sea
When's It On? - Boxing Day at 6:40AM (Channel 4)
Many people use Boxing Day as an opportunity to enjoy a well-earned rest after the chaos of Christmas Day. However, it is definitely worth getting up early to watch Song of the Sea, an Oscar-nominated movie from the acclaimed animation studio Cartoon Saloon. Like their 2009 film The Secret of Kells, Song of the Sea is based on Irish folklore, using myths about Selkies, fairies and witches as the basis for a unique and magical story. The movie deals with weighty topics such as bereavement, but it has enough comedy and adventure to keep younger audiences entertained, and the relationship between protagonist Billy and his mute younger sister Saoirse is incredibly easy to relate to. However, the best things about Song of the Sea are the beautiful hand-drawn animation and the Celtic-inspired soundtrack. Overall, the movie is a real treat for children and adults alike, and it will hopefully inspire viewers to check out other Cartoon Saloon projects, such as their forthcoming film The Breadwinner.
Mary Poppins
When's It On? - Boxing Day at 3:45PM (BBC1)
Disney's 1964 movie Mary Poppins is easily the most iconic of the numerous live-action films created by the studio, and really deserves its status as a mainstay of Christmas TV. Loosely based on a series of novels by P.L. Travers, it tells the story of a mysterious nanny who arrives at the house of Mr Banks and his family and changes their lives. With memorable performances from Julie Andrews, David Tomlinson and Dick Van Dyke, and the brilliant soundtrack from the Sherman Brothers (who can forget songs like 'Feed the Birds', 'A Spoonful of Sugar' or 'Step in Time'?), Mary Poppins continues to weave its powerful spell on audiences all over the world. The forthcoming sequel, Mary Poppins Returns, is one of the most anticipated films of 2018, but it will find it incredibly difficult to emulate the success and longevity of its predecessor.
The Little Mermaid
When's It On? - Boxing Day at 4:20PM (Channel 4)
When it was released in 1989, Disney's upbeat adventure musical The Little Mermaid was a major critical and commercial success, starting the purple patch known as the Disney Renaissance. Almost three decades after it first arrived in cinemas, it remains one of Disney's most enjoyable movies. Red-headed protagonist Ariel was the first in Disney's long line of adventurous and assertive female leads, and she is joined by a memorable cast of supporting characters, including Sebastian the crab, Flounder the fish, and the wonderfully diabolical baddie Ursula. The movie also features some of the greatest Disney songs ever, including 'Part of Your World', 'Under the Sea' and 'Kiss the Girl'. Even if you take issue with Ariel's search for love, it is impossible to deny the impact of The Little Mermaid - rewatch it yourself and see how much the recent Wonder Woman movie borrowed from it...
Matthew Bourne's Cinderella
When's It On? - Boxing Day at 5:35PM (BBC2)
Although this is technically not a movie, the television broadcast of Matthew Bourne's Cinderella is feature-length, and is definitely worth mentioning in this article. For his spin on Prokofiev's ballet Cinderella, the iconic choreographer/director relocated the traditional story of Cinderella and Prince Charming to WW2-era London. Bourne’s production uses dancing, costumes, sets, and cutting-edge projections to invoke nostalgia for the culture of the period whilst highlighting the chaos and destruction caused by the German bombing raids at the time. If you are unable to see Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella in person at Sadlers Wells Theatre this Christmas, then this TV screening allows you to enjoy it from the comfort of your own home. Seasoned Matthew Bourne fans will have a great time watching this, and for those not familiar with his work, it represents an excellent introduction.
The Princess and the Frog
When's It On? - Wednesday 27th December at 10:45AM (BBC1)
When it was released in 2009, The Princess and the Frog was the first traditionally animated Disney movie in five years, and the first Disney Princess movie since Mulan over a decade earlier. A reworking of The Frog Prince set in 1920s New Orleans, it pays loving tribute to the bayous, parades and jazz music which defined that time and place, whilst also providing a modern and assertive protagonist in the shape of the hard-working Tiana, a waitress who gets mistaken for a princess and ends up going on an incredible adventure. Although it was not successful enough to permanently revive traditional animation, The Princess and the Frog generated renewed interest in Disney's fairy tale formula, paving the way for the likes of Tangled and Frozen. It has often been overshadowed by its successors, but it is a colourful, charming throwback which will entertain viewers of all ages.
The Red Shoes
When's It On? - Wednesday 27th December at 12:10PM (BBC2)
Made by the iconic writer/director duo Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger, The Red Shoes has fascinated and haunted audiences all over the world since it was first released in 1948. The movie centres on Victoria Page, a dancer preparing to star in a ballet based on the titular Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale. Like the protagonist of that story, Victoria finds herself unable to stop dancing, and her inability to control her passion leads to tragedy. With its sumptuous technicolour cinematography, impressively detailed sets, and Moira Shearer’s magnetic performance in the lead role, The Red Shoes has become recognised as one of the greatest British movies of all time. If you haven’t already seen this enthralling and atmospheric movie, this Christmas is the perfect time to check it out for yourself.
Brave
When's It On? - Friday 29th December at 4:20PM (BBC1)
Pixar’s animated films are traditionally set in modern times, with male protagonists, but for their 2012 film Brave, they adopted the signature formula of parent studio Disney with a female-centred adventure story set in ancient Scotland. The rebellious Princess Merida rejects traditional gender roles, choosing to pursue her interest in riding and archery instead of searching for a mate, and her strained relationship with her mother Queen Elinor provides a welcome contrast to Disney’s traditional emphasis on father/daughter dynamics. The Scottish forests and highlands provide Brave with a magical, mystical feel and allow it to maintain the family-friendly appeal of Disney and Pixar’s output, even as it deviates from many of their traditional conventions.
Ever After: A Cinderella Story
When's It On? - Saturday 30th December at 12:50PM (Channel 4)
Ever After is the third adaptation of Cinderella mentioned on this list, but it is definitely unique and entertaining enough to stand out, updating the source material to reflect modern, progressive values whilst staying true to the elements which made it so popular in the first place. In this version, Drew Barrymore plays Danielle, a feisty young woman forced into servitude by her tyrannical stepmother, who finds herself falling in love with the handsome Prince Henry. Set in 16th Century France, Ever After downplays the fantasy elements which define most versions of Cinderella, with the legendary inventor Leonardo Da Vinci taking the place of the Fairy Godmother and using science to help Danielle on her path to a happy ending. However, it provides more than enough adventure, comedy and romance to please fans of the traditional story. Since its release in 1998 Ever After has gained a substantial fanbase, with many regarding it as one of the best adaptations of Cinderella. Any fairy tale enthusiasts who have previously overlooked Ever After should see it during the festive period.
Alice in Wonderland
When’s It On? - Saturday 30th December at 6:20PM (BBC2)
Although Disney had remade some of their animated films in live-action before, Tim Burton’s 2010 adaptation of Alice in Wonderland (both a remake and a sequel at the same time) turned these re-imaginings into the cornerstone of Disney’s live-action division, and helped fuel the growing trend for darker and edgier fairy tale adaptations. Burton’s Wonderland is a grim dystopia, but it allows the director to show off his signature twisted and imaginative visuals. Mia Wazowskia plays a teenage Alice, whilst Burton’s muses Helena Bonham Carter and Johnny Depp play the Queen of Hearts and the Mad Hatter respectively. They are joined by a cast of British acting icons (ranging from Stephen Fry to the late Alan Rickman), who voice the eccentric inhabitants of Wonderland. Alice in Wonderland is one of the darker films on the list, but is still recommended for Tim Burton fans and those who would like an alternative to the more sugary and upbeat fairy tale films traditionally shown over Christmas.
Into the Woods
When's It On? - New Years Eve at 8PM (BBC2)
When it made its debut on Broadway in 1987, Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine's musical Into the Woods attracted the attention of numerous actors and producers with its intelligent deconstruction of classic fairy tales and the messages they teach us. It did not reach the big screen until 2014, but it is testament to the enduring power of Into the Woods that this adaptation featured household names such as James Corden, Emily Blunt, Anna Kendrick, Chris Pine and Meryl Streep in the leading roles. Although several key elements of the source material were cut for the film, most of Sondheim's songs (including 'Hello Little Girl', 'Agony' and the beautiful 'No One is Alone') remain intact, and it is great to see the all-star cast put their spin on these classics.
Hugo
When's It On? - New Years Day at 1:10PM (Channel 4)
Famous for violent, profane and gritty crime movies such as Taxi Driver and Goodfellas, Martin Scorsese is one of the last directors who you would associate with the fairy tale genre. However, his 2011 film Hugo is a magical change of pace, blending fairy tale tropes with early 20th century technology such as movie cameras and automatons. Based on a novel by Brian Selznick, it tells the story of Hugo, a boy living in 1930s Paris, who befriends the daughter of the legendary film-maker George Melies. Melies used pioneering special effects to create a wide array of spectacular silent movies (including one of the first cinematic adaptations of Cinderella), and Hugo provides a fascinating introduction to his life and work. With its incredible visuals and an excellent cast (Including Asa Butterfield as Hugo and Ben Kingsley as George Melies), Hugo is an enthralling tribute to the power of cinema to bring the most incredible dreams and fantasies to life.
Maleficent
When's It On? - New Years Day at 5PM (BBC1)
Following in the path of revisionist fairy tale hits such as Wicked and Once Upon A Time, Maleficent puts a new spin on the titular villain from Sleeping Beauty, showing that the 'Mistress of all evil' is not as nearly as nasty as Disney's 1959 classic would have us believe. In this adaptation, Maleficent seeks revenge on the tyrannical King Stefan, but soon finds herself forming a friendship with Princess Aurora. Although Sleeping Beauty purists will despise the changes made to the characters, it is always interesting to see familiar characters get depicted in new and unusual ways, and Angelina Jolie provides an impressive portrayal of Maleficent, replicating the voice and mannerisms of Disney's iconic villain whilst taking her down a more sympathetic path.
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