There are countless holiday traditions, from Christmas lights to gift giving and so much more.  Among the most lasting ones is going to the movies. During the holiday season, many great movies come out, all in preparation for the Oscars. Here are the ones you should see this year:

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

Initially a book and then a movie in Sweden, this thriller is being redone for America. Directed by David Fincher, who most notably directed The Social Network, and starring Daniel Craig and Rooney Mara (as the girl herself), the level of talent here is worth the price of admission. Though no reviews have come out yet, this gritty “anti-Christmas” movie is definitely one not to be missed. It will hit theaters nationwide on December 21.

Hugo

If you’re not into the edgy stuff, this movie is perfect for you. Directed by Martin Scorsese, who usually does crime thrillers like The Departed and Goodfellas, this is out of his comfort zone, as it is an adventure movie shot in 3D, but in a way that’s not gimmicky or cheap. It’s gotten great reviews, looks awesome, and captures the holiday spirit. If you want to see a light movie that also has quality, you should check this one out.

War Horse

This movie is a WWI drama, based on a book and the play it was turned into, and is directed by the one and only Steven Spielberg. It stars newcomer Jeremy Irvine, Oscar nominated actress Emily Watson, Thor’s Tom Hiddleston, and other great actors.  Having seen the play, we can say that War Horse is an extremely powerful story that is definitely a strong contender for winning Best Picture at the 2012 Academy Awards. This comes out Christmas Day.

Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol

On December 21, 2011, Tom Cruise is back on the big screen as spy Ethan Hunt in the fourth Mission Impossible movie. Pixar’s Brad Bird directs (who worked on The Incredibles) and co-stars a multitude of actors, such as Oscar nominee Jeremy Renner, Simon Pegg of Shaun of the Dead, and Josh Holloway of LOST fame. Ghost Protocol is sure to be an action-packed smash hit in the box office.