Festive movies come in all kinds of genres and styles, from family fun movies to animated films and dark comedies that’ll have you heaving deep belly laughs!
They’re the ones you’re reaching for every December. When the weather is cold, the couch is cozy, and the spirit of the season is everywhere, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a relaxing holiday break. Settling in for a movie (or movie marathon) is just one of the little pleasures that the season is best for, after all!
We’re bringing you our top 10 picks for festive movies that are worth a watch (or several rewatches) this season. Check them out below:
1. Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
What better way to start this list than with a festive classic all the way from 1947?
Miracle on 34th Street is one of the most impactful and festive courtroom dramas the whole family can see. This film follows the journey of trying to prove that Kris Kringle is the one and only Santa Claus; a heartwarming watch the season just wouldn’t feel complete without.
2. Die Hard (1988)
Why not get your heart racing with your festive movie selection? It may not be a traditional holiday movie, but the festive mood of Die Hard makes it a film that’s worthy of its spot on our list.
This action-packed piece of cinema follows NYPD cop John McClane partnering up with police officers when German terrorists take Christmas party guests at Nakatomi Plaza hostage.
3. Edward Scissorhands (1990)
If you’re in the mood for a gothic fairytale with a sweet core, Edward Scissorhands is the movie for you.
This Tim Burton classic follows the gentle Edward whose scientist creator dies before he can complete him. This leaves Edward with scissor blades for hands and setting off a series of events when he is introduced to a suburban neighborhood. The snowy ending of this movie will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy.
4. Home
Alone (1990)
The story of Kevin McCallister guarding his home when his family accidentally leave him before setting off on vacation is a festive staple.
Watching the 8-year-old fend off the pair of bumbling burglars is a nostalgic, holiday favorite that you just can’t go wrong with. Plus, the scene where Kevin curls up with ice cream for his own movie night will be twice as special when you’re indulging in one of your own. The whole family will gather around for this one!
5. The
Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
If you love the spooky season as much as you love the ongoing festivities, The Nightmare Before Christmas can itch your scratch.
Often praised as one of the most visually unique and creative movies of all time, this stop-motion film will transport you straight to Halloweentown led by its king, Jack Skellington. It’s got music, animation, and a story that only seems to get better with time!
6. While You Were Sleeping (1995)
If you’re feeling the love this festive season, While You Were Sleeping is a romantic comedy that’s perfect for holiday-watching.
When a series of misunderstandings leaves the Callaghan family believing that Lucy is the fiancée of their family member Peter, Lucy basks in the love and stability of the large family. The romantic outcomes of this film may be unexpected, but you can expect to add this film to your seasonal movie rotation every year.
7. Love Actually (2003)
Still feeling the love after our last recommendation? This list wouldn’t be complete without Love Actually.
This romantic comedy centers on 8 couples as they attempt to detangle their romantic relationships over the holiday season. It’s inspired many references and festive rewatches in the years since its 2003 release, so keep the tradition going this year!
8. The Man Who Invented Christmas (2017)
If you’re a lover of more inventive festive films, this story about the origins of Charles Dickens’ widely celebrated book, A Christmas Carol, will be right up your alley.
This movie references a time when the mood around the holiday season was shifting, and how the Dickens story we all know and love changed the celebration. The story follows the writer as he grapples with financial hardships; finds inspiration from his own life and surroundings, and writes the story that changes the festive season forever.
9. Little Women (2019)
The holiday season wouldn’t be as festive without a Little Women rewatch!
Whether you’re a fan of the 1994 film or the 2019 version, every film retelling of Louisa May Alcott’s novel is a festive movie winner. This story is all about family, love, and growing up, which makes it perfect for days spent with your loved ones this holiday season.
10. Mistletoe and Menorahs (2019)
This holiday romantic drama follows Christy, the executive of a toy company on a mission to learn as much as she can about Hanukkah to land an account. She finds a treasure trove of information in her co-worker’s friend, Jonathan, who she in turn helps by teaching him all about how she celebrates the season.
If you’re on the lookout for a holiday movie that celebrates the depth of what this season means, then Mistletoe and Menorahs is perfect for you!
Which festive movie is always on your rewatch list? Let us know if we included all your favorites or what we missed in the comments below.
Until next time, season’s greetings!