Get in the Holiday Spirit with Our Ultimate Christmas Movie List
As the holiday season approaches, I find myself getting excited about all the Christmas movies that will be airing on TV. Watching these movies with my family has become a beloved tradition, and we always make sure to catch our favorites each year. From heartwarming classics to hilarious comedies, there’s something about Christmas season movies that just brings people together. Scroll down to get the Christmas Movie List Printable!
If you’re like me and love getting into the holiday spirit with a favorite holiday movie, then you’ll want to check out this list of the best Christmas movies of all time.
Whether you’re looking for something to watch with your kids, your significant other, or your whole family, there’s sure to be a movie on this list that will get you in the Christmas spirit. So grab some hot cocoa, popcorn, cozy up on the couch, and get ready to enjoy some holiday cheer.
Top 10 Christmas Movies
As a huge fan of Christmas movies, I’ve compiled a list of the top 10 must-watch films for the holiday season. Whether you’re in the mood for a heartfelt romance or an action-packed adventure, there’s something for everyone on this list.
1. Comedy
When it comes to Christmas comedies, “Elf” is a classic that never fails to make me laugh. Will Ferrell’s performance as Buddy the Elf is hilarious and heartwarming, and the film’s message about the importance of family and friendship is perfect for the holiday season.
Another hysterical Christmas movie is National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Get ready to laugh! This is one of my favorite movies because the whole movie is funny. If you have a holiday movie bucket list then you must add this to your list.
2. Musical
For a musical Christmas movie, “White Christmas” is a timeless classic. The film’s music and dance numbers are unforgettable, and the chemistry between Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney is simply delightful.
3. Romance
When it comes to Christmas romances, “Love Actually” is a must-watch. The film follows multiple interconnected love stories during the holiday season in London, and the all-star cast delivers some truly heartwarming performances.
This movie has a great Christmas aesthetic and will make you want to fall in love.
4. Adventure and Fantasy
For a Christmas adventure with a touch of fantasy, “The Polar Express” is a magical journey that’s perfect for the whole family. The film’s stunning animation and heartwarming story about the power of belief make it a holiday classic.
This is a wonderful option for family movie night because people of all ages love it. We watch this every Christmas Eve.
5. Classic Films
No list of Christmas movies would be complete without mentioning “A Christmas Carol.” The story of Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation from a miserly curmudgeon to a kind and generous man is a timeless tale that’s perfect for the holiday season.
There are a lot of renditions of A Christmas Carol my young kids love Disney’s Mickey’s Christmas Carol.
6. Family Movies
For a family-friendly Christmas movie, “Home Alone” is a hilarious and heartwarming classic movie. The film’s message about the importance of family and the power of love is perfect for the holiday season, and Macaulay Culkin’s performance as Kevin McCallister is unforgettable. The McMallister home gives great inspiration for Christmas decorations too!
7. Action Movies
If you’re in the mood for a Christmas movie with a bit of action, “Die Hard” is a classic that never gets old. Bruce Willis delivers a memorable performance as John McClane, and the film’s Christmas setting adds a unique twist to the traditional action movie formula. While this isn’t a classic Christmas film it is set during the holiday season.
8. Animated Movies
For an animated Christmas movie, “The Nightmare Before Christmas” is a unique and unforgettable film that’s perfect for the holiday season.
The film’s stunning stop-motion animation and catchy songs make it a holiday classic that’s perfect for all ages.
9. Netflix Originals
If you’re looking for a newer Christmas movie to watch, “Klaus” is a heartwarming Netflix original that’s perfect for the holiday season. The film’s stunning animation and heartwarming story about the power of kindness make it a must-watch.
My kids loved this holiday movie while enjoying some hot chocolate and cookies!
10. Foreign Films
For a foreign Christmas movie, “Nativity!” is a charming British film that’s perfect for the holiday season. The film’s story about a group of schoolchildren putting on a Christmas play is heartwarming and hilarious, and the Scottish setting adds a unique twist to the traditional Christmas movie formula.
Overall, these top 10 Christmas movies are must-watches for anyone who loves the holiday season. Whether you’re in the mood for a comedy, a romance, or an action-packed adventure, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Christmas Movie List Printable
Hallmark Channel Christmas Movies
What would be a list of Holiday movies without mentioning the Hallmark Christmas movies that are made for TV. Winter is the perfect time to stay inside and cozy up by the fire and watch the Hallmark Channel.
These movies, which can be corny, are a great way to get in the mood for winter and Christmas.
Here are some of the top Christmas movie night picks:
- Noel Next Door
- We Wish you a Married Christmas
- A Kismet Christmas
- A Cozy Christmas Inn
- Jolly Good Christmas
- Ghosts of Christmas Always
- A Magical Christmas Village
- Lights Camera Christmas
And many more!!!
Iconic Christmas Movie Characters
As a movie lover, I have seen a lot of Christmas movies over the years. One of the things that make these movies special is the iconic characters that are often featured in them. Here are some of the most memorable Christmas movie characters that I think are worth mentioning:
Santa Claus
No Christmas movie list would be complete without mentioning Santa Claus. This jolly old man is the epitome of the holiday season. Whether he’s played by Tim Allen in The Santa Clause or Ed Asner in Elf, Santa Claus always brings a smile to our faces. He’s the one who delivers presents to all the good boys and girls and spreads joy and cheer wherever he goes.
Elves
Elves are another staple of Christmas movies. These tiny creatures are often depicted as Santa’s helpers, working hard in the North Pole to make sure all the toys are ready for Christmas morning. They’re usually portrayed as mischievous and playful, like in the movie Elf where Buddy the Elf (played by Will Ferrell) is an elf who doesn’t quite fit in with the other elves.
Bing Crosby
Bing Crosby is a legendary singer and actor who starred in one of the most iconic Christmas movies of all time, White Christmas. In the movie, he plays Bob Wallace, a former army captain who teams up with his friend Phil Davis (played by Danny Kaye) to put on a show at a Vermont inn. The movie features classic songs like “White Christmas” and “Count Your Blessings (Instead of Sheep)” and has become a holiday favorite for generations.
Home Alone
Home Alone is a classic Christmas movie that follows the adventures of Kevin McCallister (played by Macaulay Culkin), a young boy who is accidentally left behind when his family goes on vacation for Christmas. Kevin has to fend for himself and protect his home from two burglars who are trying to break in. The movie is filled with hilarious antics and heartwarming moments that have made it a holiday favorite.
Arnold Schwarzenegger and Kurt Russell
Arnold Schwarzenegger and Kurt Russell both starred in Christmas movies that have become cult classics. In Jingle All the Way, Schwarzenegger plays a father who is trying to find the hottest toy of the season for his son. The movie is a hilarious look at the commercialism of Christmas and the lengths parents will go to make their children happy. In The Christmas Chronicles, Russell plays Santa Claus himself, who teams up with two siblings to save Christmas. Russell brings a sense of humor and warmth to the role that makes him one of the most memorable cinematic Santas ever.
These are just a few of the iconic Christmas movie characters that have captured our hearts over the years. Whether you’re a fan of classic movies like White Christmas or modern favorites like Elf, there’s no denying the appeal of these beloved characters.
Classic Christmas Movies
As a fan of Christmas movies, I always watch some of the classics during the holiday season. Here are a few of my favorites:
It’s a Wonderful Life
“It’s a Wonderful Life” is a timeless classic that tells the story of George Bailey, a man who has given up his dreams to help others in his small town. The movie is a heartwarming tale that reminds us of the importance of family, friends, and community. It’s a great movie to watch with the whole family, and it’s sure to put you in the holiday spirit.
A Christmas Carol
“A Christmas Carol” is a story that has been told in many forms over the years, but my favorite version is the 1984 adaptation starring George C. Scott. The movie tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man who is visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve. The ghosts show him the error of his ways and help him to rediscover the joy of the holiday season.
A Christmas Story
“A Christmas Story” is a hilarious movie that tells the story of Ralphie, a young boy who wants nothing more than a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. The movie is set in the 1940s and is full of nostalgic charm. From the leg lamp to the tongue-stuck-to-a-flagpole scene, this movie is full of iconic moments that have become a part of Christmas culture.
Bad Santa
“Bad Santa” is a movie that is definitely not for kids, but it’s a hilarious comedy for adults. The movie stars Billy Bob Thornton as a con man who poses as Santa Claus in order to rob shopping malls on Christmas Eve. The film is crude, irreverent, and definitely not politically correct, but it’s also hilarious and a great way to blow off some steam during the holiday season.
Overall, these classic Christmas movies are sure to put you in the holiday spirit. Whether you’re looking for a heartwarming tale or a raunchy comedy, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab some popcorn, curl up on the couch, and enjoy some of these timeless classics.
Newer Christmas Movies
I always get excited when new Christmas movies come out. Here are some of my favorite newer Christmas movies that have become classics over the years.
Elf
Elf is a classic Christmas movie that was released in 2003. It stars Will Ferrell as Buddy, a human who was raised by elves at the North Pole. When he discovers that he is not actually an elf, he travels to New York City to find his real father. Along the way, he spreads Christmas cheer and helps people rediscover the true meaning of the holiday. This movie is funny, heartwarming, and perfect for the whole family.
The Polar Express
The Polar Express is a 2004 animated movie that tells the story of a young boy who takes a magical train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. The movie is based on a children’s book of the same name by Chris Van Allsburg. The animation is breathtaking, and the story is full of wonder and magic. This movie is perfect for kids and adults who still believe in the magic of Christmas.
Love Actually
Love Actually is a 2003 romantic comedy that takes place in the weeks leading up to Christmas. The movie follows the lives of several different characters as they navigate love and relationships during the holiday season. The movie has a star-studded cast, including Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson, and Colin Firth. This movie is perfect for anyone who loves a good romantic comedy.
The Holiday
The Holiday is a 2006 romantic comedy that tells the story of two women who swap homes for the holidays. One woman lives in Los Angeles, and the other lives in a small English village. They both find love and happiness in unexpected ways. The movie stars Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, and Jack Black. This movie is perfect for anyone who wants to escape to a cozy English village for the holidays.
The Grinch
The Grinch is a 2018 animated movie that tells the story of the Grinch, a green creature who hates Christmas. He decides to steal Christmas from the people of Whoville, but his heart is changed by a little girl named Cindy Lou Who. The movie is based on the classic Dr. Seuss book, How the Grinch Stole Christmas. This movie is perfect for kids and adults who love the classic story.
“Not Well-Known” Christmas Movies
As someone who loves Christmas and movies, I’m always on the lookout for new holiday films to add to my watchlist. While the classics like “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “A Christmas Carol” are always great, sometimes it’s nice to mix things up with some unknown gems. Here are five not well-known Christmas movies that you should definitely check out this holiday season.
1. Gremlins
“Gremlins” is a 1984 horror-comedy classic that takes place during Christmas. The film follows a young man who receives a strange creature called a Mogwai as a gift, but soon discovers that it comes with some serious rules. When the rules are broken, chaos ensues as the Mogwai transforms into destructive creatures known as Gremlins. With a mix of humor and horror, “Gremlins” is a unique and entertaining Christmas movie.
2. The Night Before
“The Night Before” is a 2015 comedy that follows three best friends who have spent every Christmas Eve together since the death of one of their parents. However, now in their 30s, they decide that this year’s Christmas Eve will be their last hurrah. With a cast including Seth Rogen, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Anthony Mackie, “The Night Before” is a hilarious and heartwarming movie that is perfect for the holiday season.
3. Mixed Nuts
“Mixed Nuts” is a 1994 comedy that takes place on Christmas Eve at a suicide prevention hotline. Starring Steve Martin, Madeline Kahn, and a young Adam Sandler, the film is a quirky and charming look at the lives of the hotline workers and the people who call in. While it may not be the most classic Christmas movie, “Mixed Nuts” is a delightful and underrated gem.
4. The Ref
“The Ref” is a 1994 black comedy that follows a thief who takes a bickering couple hostage on Christmas Eve. As the night goes on, the couple’s dysfunction becomes increasingly apparent, and the thief finds himself in the middle of their marital problems. Starring Denis Leary, Kevin Spacey, and Judy Davis, “The Ref” is a darkly funny and entertaining Christmas movie.
5. Trading Places
“Trading Places” is a 1983 comedy during the holiday season. Starring Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd, the film follows two men from opposite ends of the social spectrum who are forced to switch lives as part of a bet. With a mix of humor and social commentary, “Trading Places” is a classic Christmas movie that is often overlooked.
Overall, these five underrated Christmas movies are all worth checking out. Whether you’re in the mood for horror, comedy, or something in between, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab some hot cocoa, snuggle up on the couch, and enjoy these hidden holiday gems.
I hope this Christmas movie list (printable) helps you think outside the box when it comes to holiday movies!
Read More Christmas Posts:
30 Christmas Traditions You Must Try!
Minimalist Christmas Decor Ideas
Winter Aesthetic Photos To Get in the Mood for Christmas
Pin This Ultimate Christmas List Printable for Later:
