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Francis Ford Coppola’s 1972 epic The Godfather may only contain a few scenes that actually take place during the holidays, but no Dickens tale could capture the true spirit of Christmas quite as accurately. After all, what is Christmas other than an orgy of consumption whose religious significance has been undermined by feuding businesses battling over market shares? If only the trail of holiday tears ended at a puddle of Don Claus’ freshly spilled blood congealing in the middle of the street. Instead, the entire family is caught in the crossfire of commercial warfare, until nothing is left but bad feelings among relatives and empty chairs around the dinner table. The Godfather screens as part of the “Naughty & Nice” film serieswhich also includes such underappreciated Christmas classics as Gremlins, Trading Places, and Die Hardat 7:30 p.m. (see Showtimes for a full schedule) at the American Film Institute’s Silver Theatre and Cultural Center, 8633 Colesville Road, Silver Spring. $8.50. (301) 495-6700. (Matthew Borlik)