The Bermuda National Gallery is getting into the Christmas spirit by screening a series of popular holiday movies especially for families.

The Family Christmas Film Series will offer films twice daily at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. from December 18 to December 22, which is perfect for the school holidays and a welcome break for all the family from the Christmas shopping rush.

The films will be shown right in the Gallery and the full festive line-up is as follows:

[box] Monday the Gallery will show 'Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town>. "This is an annual tribute to Bermuda's own Arthur Rankin, a pioneer in stop-motion animated TV specials," said BNG director Laura Gorham.

"It is a holiday favourite filled with good cheer. This delightful story tells how Kris Kringle got his start as the world's most famous gift giver by struggling to bring toys and happiness to the children of Sobertown.

"This classic tale is told and sung by Fred Astaire with Mickey Rooney as Kris."

[box] TuesdB>, BNG will feature two films — 'The Night Before Christmaand 'How the Grinch Stole Christ'.

Artist Mary Engebreit brings Clement C. Moore's classic 'The Night Before Christmas' to life in brilliant CGI animation in the former. "(The film) features the voice talent of Academy Award-winning actor Kevin Kline," said Ms Gorham. "This magical presentation is certain to become a holiday favourite for the whole family."

Shown immediately afterward will be the Seuss classic 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas'.

"This joyous, heart-tickling holiday event based on Dr. Seuss' beloved book and featuring the voice of Boris Karloff has delighted viewers of all ages since its 1966 debut," said Ms Gorham. "Both films are 26 minutes each."

[box] Wednay will see 'The Nightmare Before Chriss' brought to the screen.

"Tim Burton's extraordinary film marked a cinematic first as the first, full-length stop-motion animated feature," said Ms Gorham.

"Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King Of Halloween Town, decides to spread Christmas joy to the world. But his well-meaning mission unwittingly puts Santa Claus in jeopardy and creates a nightmare for all good little boys and girls everywhere.

"This critically-acclaimed movie milestone is a uniquely engaging fantasy for the whole family, although caution is advised for young children, as there are a few scary moments."

[box] Tsday brings the screening of 'A Christmas Carol: The ical', which features Kelsey Grammer of 'Frasier' fame.

"Grammer brings Ebenezer Scrooge to life in this musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic tale," Ms Gorham said.

[box] The final day,

"Have yourself a very, merry Muppet Christmas with this holiday movie starring Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy and the whole Muppet gang — plus a celebrity cast featuring David Arquette, Joan Cusack and Whoopi Goldberg, with cameos by Matthew Lillard, William H. Macy, Carson Daly, Kelly Ripa, Joe Rogan, Molly Shannon and the cast of 'Scrubs'," Ms Gorham said.

Tickets for the films are are $5 per person or $10 per family but free for BNG members.