The holiday season is the perfect time to cozy up with a wonderful movie, and what better way to embrace the spirit of Christmas than with a list of top festive films?
These movies, ranging from heartwarming classics to quirky comedies, are sure to infuse your holiday celebrations with joy, laughter, and perhaps even a few tears. Here are 10 Christmas movies that should be on your must-watch list this season!
Home Alone
Home Alone is undoubtedly the most iconic Christmas movie. This holiday classic, a core memory of everyone’s childhood, follows young Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin), mistakenly left behind when his large, chaotic family heads out on vacation. While reveling in his newfound independence, Kevin ends up facing off against two hilariously inept burglars, played by Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern, in a series of chaotic and inventive showdowns.
Once you’ve enjoyed the original, why not dive into its sequel, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York? This time, Kevin finds himself on the wrong flight and ends up alone in the Big Apple. With iconic locations, more elaborate traps, and plenty of laughs, some fans even argue that the sequel outshines the first.
The Grinch (2000)
Nothing says holiday cheer like Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas. This live-action retelling of the beloved classic stars Jim Carrey as the hilariously grumpy Grinch, who lives high above Whoville and despises everything about Christmas. Determined to ruin the Whos’ festive spirit, he hatches a plan to steal all their decorations, gifts, and treats—but along the way, he learns that Christmas is about much more than material things.
Packed with humor, heart, and Carrey’s larger-than-life performance, this adaptation dives into the Grinch’s backstory, adding layers to his character while staying true to the whimsical charm of Dr. Seuss’ world. And with Anthony Hopkins narrating and stunning visuals bringing Whoville to life, it’s no wonder this film became a holiday favorite.
Once you’ve seen it, why not revisit the animated 2018 version of The Grinch? With a fresh take on the classic tale, it offers even more laughs and festive fun for the whole family.
Polar Express
Step aboard The Polar Express, a heartwarming holiday adventure that takes viewers on a magical train ride to the North Pole. The story follows a skeptical young boy who embarks on a Christmas Eve journey that rekindles his belief in the spirit of the season.
While computer animation may feel dated by today’s standards, it was groundbreaking at the time, especially with Tom Hanks performing motion capture for multiple characters, including the iconic train conductor. The film’s sweet message, enchanting visuals, and memorable score make it a beloved Christmas tradition for families everywhere.
White Christmas
Step back in time with White Christmas, a classic holiday musical brimming with charm and nostalgia. The story follows two singing sisters and a pair of performers who team up—onstage and off—to save a picturesque inn from financial ruin during the festive season.
With its catchy songs, heartwarming story, and dazzling dance numbers, this film is the epitome of old-school holiday entertainment. It features Bing Crosby’s iconic rendition of the title song.
A Christmas Carol
Bring the magic of Dickens to life with Disney’s A Christmas Carol, a visually stunning animated retelling of the timeless Victorian-era tale. Directed by Robert Zemeckis and featuring Jim Carrey in a remarkable performance as Ebenezer Scrooge and the three Christmas spirits, this version uses groundbreaking motion-capture animation to immerse viewers in a richly detailed world.
Three spirits guide Scrooge through his past, present, and future on Christmas Eve, embarking on his transformative journey from a miserly curmudgeon to a warm-hearted benefactor. With a dark yet poignant tone, spectacular visuals, and a moving score by Alan Silvestri, this adaptation captures the essence of Dickens’ classic while adding its own modern flair.
If you’re a fan of festive adaptations, don’t miss The Muppet Christmas Carol for a more lighthearted take or Mickey’s Christmas Carol for a nostalgic animated version of this beloved story.
Elf
Add some holiday cheer with Elf, a modern Christmas classic brimming with heart and hilarity. Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, a human raised by Santa’s elves at the North Pole. When Buddy discovers he’s not actually an elf, he heads to New York City to find his real father, Walter (James Caan), who’s about as far from the Christmas spirit as one can get.
Between Buddy’s over-the-top enthusiasm, his budding romance with Jovie (Zooey Deschanel), and some chaotic run-ins with New York’s quirks, this comedy delivers endless laughs while reminding us what the holidays are all about. With its memorable lines, lovable characters, and plenty of festive spirit, it’s no wonder Elf has become a seasonal favorite.
The Nutcracker and the Four Realms
Step into a dazzling world of magic and mystery with The Nutcracker and the Four Realms, a visually stunning fantasy adventure inspired by the beloved story and Tchaikovsky’s iconic ballet. Mackenzie Foy stars as Clara, a young girl who receives a mysterious egg-shaped box from her late mother. Her search for the key leads her into a magical realm filled with enchanting lands and whimsical characters, including the charming Nutcracker Captain Philip (Jayden Fowora-Knight) and the mischievous Sugar Plum Fairy (Keira Knightley).
As Clara uncovers her mother’s connection to this extraordinary world, she must resolve a conflict that threatens its harmony. With breathtaking visuals, a sweeping score, and a twist on a classic tale, the film delivers a mix of wonder and adventure. While it faced mixed reviews for its story, its stunning aesthetic and captivating performances make it a treat for fans of fantasy.
Love Actually (2003)
Celebrate the tangled, joyous, and sometimes messy realities of love with Love Actually, a heartwarming ensemble romantic comedy set during the holiday season. Written and directed by Richard Curtis, the film features ten interwoven stories of love in all its forms, from blossoming romance to familial devotion, all leading up to Christmas. With an all-star cast including Hugh Grant, Keira Knightley, Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, Colin Firth, and Liam Neeson, the movie captures the magic, heartbreak, and humor of relationships.
Set against a vibrant London backdrop, the characters’ lives overlap in surprising ways, creating a rich tapestry of connections—from the Prime Minister falling for his junior staffer to a rock star’s unlikely friendship with his manager. While some tales are sweet and uplifting, others touch on bittersweet truths, like unrequited love and marital strain, making the film a blend of festive cheer and poignant reflection. Love Actually, with its iconic moments and a fantastic soundtrack, is an evergreen favorite for the holiday season.
Krampus (2015)
Are you in search of a unique holiday film? Krampus offers a chilling mix of horror and dark humor. When a young boy’s loss of Christmas spirit unleashes Krampus, the horned demon of folklore, his dysfunctional family must fight for survival against sinister toys, deadly gingerbread men, and Krampus’s dark elves. Directed by Michael Dougherty and starring Adam Scott and Toni Collette, this film blends scares and satire, perfect for fans of Gremlins or The Nightmare Before Christmas. It’s a wickedly entertaining reminder to keep the holiday spirit alive—or else.
Last Christmas (2019)
Paul Feig directs the heartwarming holiday romantic comedy Last Christmas, which draws inspiration from the music of George Michael and Wham! Emilia Clarke stars as Kate, a disillusioned Christmas shop worker whose life changes when she meets the mysterious Tom (Henry Golding). Despite her chaotic family life and troubled past, Kate begins to open up to Tom and re-evaluate her future. As the plot unravels, Kate discovers a life-changing secret about Tom that leads to a heartfelt journey of self-discovery and healing. With charming performances and a catchy soundtrack, this festive film offers both laughs and poignant moments for the holiday season.
Whether you’re in the mood for a laugh, some holiday romance, or a dash of Christmas magic, these films are sure to bring the festive cheer. And if you’re craving cozy fall vibes before the Christmas lights take over, don’t forget to check out our fall movie recommendations for even more seasonal favorites!
