My favorite Christmas movie, and perhaps my favorite movie of all time, is the 1968 hit "The Lion in Winter". It isn't, strictly speaking, a "Christmas movie", but the story takes place during the Christmas court of Henry II (Peter O'Toole) in 1183. Henry is old, knows he will die soon, and wants to dispose of the question of succession. He battles with his wife, Eleanor of Acquitaine, over who will wear the crown.

We all know what actually happened; Richard succeeds Henry, only to be usurped by John while on Crusade. The legend of Robin Hood takes place during John's reign, as well. But all that is still in the future as this film takes place.

It is a stunning ensemble performance, featuring Anthony Hopkins' first film appearance as the bellicose Richard. The doltish John is played by Nigel Terry (who played King Arthur, among other roles). Timothy Dalton, late of James Bond fame, plays Prince Philip of France. But Katherine Hepburn's portrayal as Eleanor earned her a Best Actress Oscar. She's simply magnificent in this picture, as is O'Toole.

They all benefit from spectacular writing (also won the Academy Award for best adapted screenplay) by James Goldman, with some of the greatest lines ever uttered onscreen.

Including (Richard, to Eleanor); "You're so deceitful you can't ask for water when you're thirsty. We could tangle spiders in the webs you weave."

And (Eleanor to Henry); "I could peel you like a pear and God himself would call it justice!"

But my all-time favorite is Henry to Philip: "I found out the way your mind works and the kind of man you are. I know your plans and expectations - you've burbled every bit of strategy you've got. I know exactly what you will do, and exactly what you won't, and I've told you exactly nothing. To these aged eyes, boy, that's what winning looks like!"

Which makes me wonder what victory looks like in 21st century warfare. Five years ago, Islamic extremists were killing Israelis and Americans. Today, those extremists are killing each other. To these aged eyes, that's what victory looks like.