There are many holiday movies out there, and a couple has Michigan ties, but one Chicago-based Christmas movie blew everyone out of the water.

For 56 years, many would gather around the TV and watch “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” during the season of Halloween. Unfortunately, the tradition of having this special aired on national television has come to an end.

It’s that time of year again: To watch all of the classic (and a few new) Christmas movies -- and given how 2021 has gone, we could all use a little holiday cheer these days, right?

As an aging millennial who has the privilege of living with my parents while I save up to buy a house in this crazy housing market, I’ve noticed something about my parents that I had no clue about, previously: They’re obsessed with Hallmark Christmas movies.

DETROIT – You may remember Ellen Latzen from her childhood acting roles in “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” as Ruby Sue or even for her role in “Fatal Attraction.”Well, these days, Latzen, now 40, is enjoying life right here in Metro Detroit. Latzen is not from the area, but recently moved to Michigan for work and her relationship. But possibly her most memorable role was as Randy Quaid's daughter "Ruby Sue" in National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. Considered one of the greatest Christmas movies of all-time, this film still captures the hearts and funny bones of millions around the globe. She moved to the San Francisco Bay Area to attend the California College of Arts and Crafts, and eventually started working.