SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16, SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17 & WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20

THE POLAR EXPRESS (20TH ANNIVERSARY)

“All aboard!” On Christmas Eve a boy takes a mysterious train bound for the North Pole, in this adaptation of the beloved children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg. The performance-capture animation used by director Robert Zemeckis made it possible for Tom Hanks to play six roles, including the conductor (“Tickets, please!”) and Santa Claus. (“The true spirit of Christmas lies in your heart.”)

2004

Rated G

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24 & WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27

ELF

Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, an elf who is, well, different from the other elves. When Papa Elf (Bob Newhart) informs Buddy that he was adopted, he sets out to find his real father (James Caan). A modern Christmas classic, thanks to Ferrell’s endearing performance as Buddy (“Son of a nutcracker!”), whose childlike Christmas spirit softens the most cynical of hearts. (“Santa, HERE? I know him, I know him!”)

2003

Rated PG