Merry Christmas Eve Eve to all, and if you're kicking back after finishing your holiday preparations, there's a cornucopia of movies awaiting on TV this festive season. This guide details the top films set to air on December 23, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and St Stephen's Day, providing the perfect backdrop for cozy family gatherings, delicious treats, and festive cheer.
Starting with December 23, the cinematic offerings kick off with Bumblebee airing on Film 4 at 1:05 PM. The beloved Autobot seeks refuge and friendship with Charlie, who is struggling to find her place as she approaches adulthood. Not far behind, on RTÉ 2, Rock-A-Doodle brings its animated charm at 1:30 PM, following Chanticleer as he embarks on his adventure after realizing his crowing is not what causes the sun to rise.
Next up, the timeless classic It's A Wonderful Life graces RTÉ 1 at 3:15 PM. George Bailey's struggle reminds audiences about the significance of community and personal sacrifice, weaving themes of hope and redemption perfect for the holiday season. Following this, Ghostbusters airs on BBC 1 at 4:50 PM, delivering laughs as scientists turned ghostbusters attempt to save New York City from the supernatural—proving laughter is just as valuable as sentimentality over the holidays.
Stuart Little 2 is featured on TG4 at 5:30 PM, picking up where the first film left off as the tiny hero embarks on another adventure with charm and courage. Just as enchanting, The Polar Express, also at 5:30 PM but on Sky Showcase, transports viewers to the North Pole, emphasizing belief and excitement. This film highlights the magic of Santa Claus and adventure, fulfilling children’s dreams during the holiday season.
Wrapping up December 23, Bullet Train and Prey air at 9 PM on Channel 4 and Film 4, respectively. These films cater to mature audiences, showcasing thrilling action and darker themes, rounding off the day’s viewing suitable for varied tastes.
Moving on to Christmas Eve, the schedule offers another chance for family favorites. With Ghostbusters: Afterlife hitting BBC One at 5:50 PM, viewers can enjoy the new generation discovering their ghostly roots, featuring familiar faces like Paul Rudd and bringing nostalgia to the forefront. This sequel successfully intertwines the old with the new, reviving treasured memories for fans of the original.
At 6 PM on RTÉ 2, Home Alone stands out as perhaps the quintessential Christmas film. Following Kevin McCallister's ingenious traps set to thwart burglars, this film resonates with families year after year—its humor, holiday spirit, and cleverness make it timeless. Not to be outdone, Die Hard airs on TG4 at 10:05 PM, presenting Bruce Willis as John McClane defending his family and reclaiming the holiday spirit amid chaos, showcasing action with heartfelt undertones.
On Christmas Day, the enchanting The BFG airs on TG4 at 1:25 PM, capturing the imaginations of children and adults alike. Directed by Spielberg, this adaptation of Roald Dahl’s novel brings fantastical elements to the screen, showcasing friendship. Then, at 3:10 PM, the classic Some Like It Hot on BBC Two entices with its screwball comedy as two musicians escape mobsters by disguising themselves as women, promising laughter through the generations.
Another delightful offering is Paddington, which airs at 4:25 PM on RTÉ 2. This charming tale of the bear who finds acceptance and love from the kind-hearted Brown family encapsulates the spirit of Christmas. For fans of animated chaos, Despicable Me 3 offers mischievous fun at 4:45 PM on TG4 before the action-packed Jurassic World: Dominion rounds up the day’s programming.
St Stephen's Day promises more thrills, starting with Into the West at 5:05 PM on TG4, where two boys find adventure with their magical white horse, captivating viewers of all ages. Following this, Raiders of the Lost Ark takes audiences on an adventure with Indiana Jones at 5:55 PM on RTÉ 2, combining history with action as he seeks the Ark of the Covenant. And, winding down the week, The Proposal airs at 9 PM, interweaving romance and comedy, promising laughter as characters navigate unexpected circumstances.
The holiday season provides not only joy and nostalgia through classic films but also new festive releases like That Christmas, highlighting stories of love and connection, cementing the spirit of the season effectively. Gather your loved ones, grab some popcorn, and enjoy this festive season filled with heartwarming tales and holiday classics—because what’s Christmas without great movies?
