The countdown to Christmas is well underway, and with it, the perfect opportunity to gather family and friends for some festive film-watching. Whether you prefer heartwarming classics, animated adventures, or romantic comedies, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season. Here’s our curated list of the best Christmas movies to watch this festive season, guaranteed to add cheer to your celebrations.
At the top of many lists remains the timeless classic, It's A Wonderful Life (1946). Starring Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey, this film captures the essence of Christmas by showing the impact one person's life can have on their community. Critically acclaimed and beloved by audiences, it holds high ratings on both Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb, making it the quintessential festive watch.
Another hallmark of the holiday season is Home Alone (1990), where young Kevin McCallister, played by Macaulay Culkin, finds himself defending his house from burglars after his family accidentally leaves him behind during their Christmas vacation. This comedy remains relevant for its humor and hijinks, perfect for family gatherings.
If you’re seeking something more modern, the animated feature Klaus (2019) should top your list. It uniquely tells the story of Jesper, a postman who befriends Klaus, a reclusive toymaker, as they change the dynamics of gift-giving within their community. This Oscar-nominated film is both visually stunning and heartwarming, making it ideal for younger audiences.
For those who enjoy romantic comedies, Love Actually (2003) offers interconnected stories of love through the lens of the Christmas season. With its diverse cast and charming narrative, this film has become iconic for many during the holidays.
On the action front, Die Hard (1988) continues to stir debate about its place as a Christmas movie. Regardless of where you stand on the issue, Bruce Willis's relentless fight against terrorists during his wife’s office Christmas party is exhilarating, and offers a different kind of festive cheer.
While classic offerings have their charm, Netflix is continuously reinventing the festive film genre. Their lineup includes titles like Our Little Secret, which follows former lovers Avery and Logan as they navigate complex familial relationships during Christmas. This film adds humor and modern complexity to the holiday season.
Don’t forget to explore lesser-known films for more variety. The charming 1940 classic The Shop Around the Corner has seen resurgence thanks to its screenplay and engaging plot surrounding two co-workers unknowingly falling for each other through anonymous correspondence.
For horror enthusiasts, Black Christmas (1974), featuring unsuspecting sorority sisters being hunted down by a mysterious killer, offers the perfect blend of holiday spirit with thrilling suspense.
If you're ready for some light-hearted yet quirky narratives, look no farther than Netflix's Hot Frosty, which follows the humorous and unique premise of bringing snowmen to life. It may not be for everyone but adds to the array of holiday storytelling.
And for those craving French cinema, the film A Christmas Tale, which artfully combines family drama with the Christmas spirit, is worth watching. It dives deep emotionally, capturing the intricacies of family dynamics during the holidays.
With streaming services like Disney+, Netflix, and Amazon Prime offering extensive libraries filled with Christmas movies, now is the time to explore and find the right films to cozy up to. Don't hesitate to make use of Netflix codes to discover specific genres, like Christmas comedies or family films, allowing you to navigate their holiday content easily.
Prepare your snacks, cuddle under warm blankets, and enjoy these films, as they bring joy, laughter, and heartfelt moments to your Christmas celebrations this year.
