Putting your feet up and indulging in a festive film or two is a perfect way to relax, spend time with family, and enjoy the Christmas holidays.
You probably have a few favourites you like to watch each year. Whether they make you laugh or cry, these classics entertain you every time.
But did you know that many of these films you love so much could also offer invaluable financial lessons?
Read on to find out what three of the most popular Christmas films could teach you about managing your wealth in 2025 and beyond.
1. Home Alone – Preparing for the unexpected could provide valuable financial security
Released on 7 December 1990, Home Alone has become a modern Christmas classic enjoyed by children and adults of all ages.
The film tells the story of eight-year-old Kevin McCallister, who is accidentally left behind when his family go on holiday over Christmas.
At first, Kevin is delighted to have the house to himself and enjoys the freedom of eating ice cream in bed and watching whichever films he likes.
Yet soon, a pair of hapless burglars attempt to break into the property believing it to be empty. Kevin must then protect his home by creating a range of elaborate DIY booby traps to send the criminals on their way.
As well as being hugely entertaining, the film contains several valuable messages about protecting your finances against the potential effect of unexpected events.
When Kevin finds himself alone, he has no money or resources to buy everyday essentials, such as food and laundry detergent. Fortunately, he discovers his brother Buzz’s secret stash of cash, which Kevin uses to stock up with supplies.
This highlights the importance of keeping an emergency fund. Kevin was lucky that Buzz had saved some money. Without these funds, he might have gone hungry until his parents returned.
Additionally, Kevin’s meticulous preparation of his family’s home ahead of the burglars’ return allowed him to ward off the thieves.
In the same way, by planning ahead and putting financial protection in place, you could ensure that you and your loved ones are provided for if something unexpected occurs.
For example, investing in income protection now could give you the means to cover day-to-day costs such as utility bills and mortgage payments if you are unable to work due to illness or injury.
2. A Christmas Carol – Learning from the past and looking ahead could help you plan for the future you desire
Charles Dickens’ classic tale was first published in 1843 and has since been adapted for the big screen on multiple occasions.
Whether you prefer the 1951 film starring Alastair Sim, the 80s comedy Scrooged featuring Bill Murray, or the 90s musical The Muppet Christmas Carol, the story of Ebenezer Scrooge is probably one you’re familiar with.
Yet perhaps you’re less aware of an instructive financial planning tip hidden in the storyline.
When Scrooge is visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve, he is given an invaluable insight into his past, present, and future. By reflecting on his behaviours and looking forward to what might lie ahead, the miserly old man realises the error of his ways and takes steps to change his future.
Similarly, when it comes to your finances, reviewing past behaviours and thinking carefully about what you want in the long term could help you craft a plan that aligns with your goals.
While you may not receive a visit from the Ghosts of Christmas this festive season, a financial planner could offer just the help you need.
By using cashflow modelling, a financial professional can paint a clear picture of how your wealth might look in years to come, based on factors such as your income, outgoings, investment returns, and so on.
This could help you assess whether you’re on track for the future you desire, and if not, adapt your plan accordingly. For example, you might decide to increase your pension contributions or change your investment strategy to ensure that you can retire early without running out of money.
3. It’s a Wonderful Life – A fresh perspective might help you overcome difficult times
It’s a Wonderful Life has become a “must-watch” film at this time of year.
The story begins on Christmas Eve, with troubled businessman George Bailey looking forlornly at his life and feeling that he has nothing to contribute to the world. As his company is in financial trouble, all he sees is problems.
Thankfully, George is visited by his guardian angel, Clarence, who shows him all that he has contributed to his community and family. As a result, George comes to appreciate all that he has and could have in the future, and that it truly is a “wonderful life”.
Just like George, if you’re facing difficult financial times, you might find it hard to stay positive.
For example, if the value of your investments falls due to a dip in the market, you might rush to sell your shares for fear of further losses. Yet, a downturn is unlikely to last indefinitely, and markets typically recover over the long term.
However, it can be hard to hold your nerve and avoid emotional decision-making if you’re facing financial challenges.
That’s why working with a financial planner can be so beneficial.
A financial professional can act as an objective sounding board, providing a fresh perspective if you can’t see a way forward. They have the knowledge, skills, and resources to guide you towards data and logic-informed decisions.
Think of your financial planner as your Clarence – a guardian angel who is there to provide the insight you need to banish your negativity and realise the wonderful possibilities in your future.
Get in touch
If you’d like help getting your finances in order ahead of the festive season and beyond, we can help.
Please email hello@bluewealth.co.uk or call us on 0117 332 0230.
Please note
The content of this newsletter is offered only for general informational and educational purposes. It is not offered as, and does not constitute, financial advice.
Blue Wealth Ltd is not responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within linked sites.
Blue Wealth Ltd is an appointed representative of Best Practice IFA Group Ltd, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate cashflow planning.
The value of your investments (and any income from them) can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.
Note that financial protection plans typically have no cash in value at any time and cover will cease at the end of the term. If premiums stop, then cover will lapse.
Cover is subject to terms and conditions and may have exclusions. Definitions of illnesses vary from product provider and will be explained within the policy documentation.
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