Yes, it’s that time of the year—the time of anticipation, cozy nights, festive lights, and, of course, must see Christmas films.
Holiday movies are a beloved tradition, bringing warmth and joy to the season with stories that make us laugh, cry, or simply marvel at the magic of the holidays. This is our personal list of must-see Christmas favorites. It’s a mix of classics, surprises, and guilty pleasures that have stood the test of time for us.
Warning: This isn’t a “serious critic’s” list. Tim Allen stars in two of these films, and you might find a few unexpected titles that aren’t on traditional lists. We also snuck in two animated films. That’s the fun of it!
Our main goal? To create a list of movies we genuinely love. The ones that capture the essence of the season and bring us joy year after year. Originally, we aimed for a top 10, but there were just too many good ones, so we expanded it to 20.
So here we Ho-Ho-go!
#20 Home Alone (1990)
Do we dare to do it? Yes, we do. While Home Alone is universally beloved, we’re putting it at #20 simply because it’s been watched so many times that it feels like an automatic choice. That being said, we’ll still watch it this Christmas.
It’s impossible not to love Macaulay Culkin as the clever, mischievous Kevin McCallister. Or the slapstick brilliance of the Wet Bandits, and all the memorable pranks. Fun fact: If you ever wondered if Kevin’s house actually exists the answer is – yes!
While all indoor scenes were filmed on set in a high school gymnasium, the exterior shots were shot in front of the actual house. It’s located in Winnetka, Illinois, and it became a tourist attraction after the film’s release, with fans eager to see the real-life setting of Kevin’s adventures. The Home Alone house address is 671 Lincoln Ave, Winnetka, IL, in case you’re ever nearby.
#19 Edward Scissorhands (1990)
Tim Burton is at his best in this story about a “near-complete” person—one who teaches us more about human nature than a “normal” person would. Everyone in this film is stylized and peculiar, which might turn off some audiences. For others, it’s the holiday film they’ve been looking for. The film’s unique blend of gothic elements and a heartwarming narrative makes it a standout during the holiday season.
#18 Christmas with the Kranks (2004)
We came across this film on TV by chance and, despite its flaws, were charmed by its simple yet relatable premise. A couple decides to skip Christmas altogether.
Tim Allen and Jamie Lee Curtis deliver a believable and likable performance as a pair determined to ignore the existence of Christmas and learn a lesson or two. While the film occasionally relies too heavily on clichés, and a few scenes fail to make the most of its talented cast, the warm and uplifting finale ensures it’s a feel-good Christmas movie worth adding to your watchlist.
#17 Love Actually (2003)
From now-iconic airport reunions and Hugh Grant’s dance to quirky holiday romances, this ensemble weaves together bittersweet love stories. Richard Curtis has a knack for turning cheesy scenes into heartfelt moments. With an incredible cast featuring Alan Rickman, Colin Firth, and Emma Thompson, it’s hard not to be charmed.
Plus, Curtis somehow convinces us that a British bachelor can fly to Milwaukee, walk into a bar, and meet a friendly Wisconsin girl who finds his British accent so cute she’ll want to sleep with him. The film’s greatest strength is also its greatest weakness. Curtis uses every imaginable situation in the playbook of obligatory movie love scenarios.
#16 The Ref (1994)
The story is about a burglar who, in desperation, kidnaps a married couple on Christmas Eve and orders them to drive to their home. Instead of buying some time to plan his next move, he finds himself stuck with a couple who do what they’ve done most of their marriage. They argue and fight all the time.
Great performances by Denis Leary, Kevin Spacey, and Judy Davis. Director Ted Demme successfully handles a large supporting cast and turns this into a great holiday treat. And at the end, we find that the kidnapper isn’t really such a bad guy after all. But that’s the part we were all wishing for, right?
#15 The Polar Express (2004)
This visually stunning animated adventure continues to capture the wonder of Christmas through a child’s eyes, earning its spot on our list. Tom Hanks brings warmth and charm to this magical journey to the North Pole, making it a beloved choice for both kids and adults.
Robert Zemeckis confirms his magic touch by blending impressive technical achievements with masterful storytelling. Notably, The Polar Express was the first full-length film made entirely with motion capture technology. It was a groundbreaking achievement that earned it a spot in the Guinness Book of Records.
#14 The Santa Clause (1994)
Tim Allen shines as an ordinary man who unexpectedly finds himself taking on the role of Santa Claus in this modern twist on the classic holiday tale. It’s hard to believe, but it was Tim Allen’s first lead role in a movie. Producers took a risk casting a TV comedian, but Allen’s charm made the film a box-office success.
The film is funny, heartfelt, and full of festive cheer as Allen’s character gradually embraces his magical new responsibilities. It even answers those age-old questions: how does Santa fit down tiny chimneys? And how does he deliver presents to every child in one night? This movie is ideal for a cozy evening at home.
#13 National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
One of the films that made us fall in love with Chevy Chase’s comedic talent. This laugh-out-loud depiction of holiday chaos is a classic. Clark Griswold’s determination to pull off the perfect Christmas is something all of us can relate to, which is why this film works so well. Every viewing brings new laughs and plenty of nostalgic charm. From overloaded light displays to over-the-top family antics, this comedy never gets old.
Bonus trivia: The Griswold house is the same property used in Lethal Weapon for Murtaugh’s family. This shows just how versatile movie sets can be. Chevy Chase mentioned this connection in an interview. He noted that when they arrived to film Christmas Vacation, remnants from Lethal Weapon were still present on the set.
#12 Joyeux Noël (2005)
Based on a true story, this moving film captures a rare moment of humanity during World War I. A Christmas truce where soldiers from opposing sides put down their weapons to celebrate together. It serves as a powerful reminder of the unifying power of the holiday spirit. The bittersweet realization that the celebration is fleeting and the fighting will resume lingers, leaving us to reflect on the fragility of life. The film has become a classic end-of-year movie on many TV channels. Joyeux Noel is also studied in schools for its musical and historical significance.
#11 Gremlins (1984)
The opening act of Gremlins captures Hollywood at its best, offering a clever setup and a first glimpse of the mischievous creatures. What starts as a charming introduction quickly shifts into a smart B-movie, with the gremlins wreaking havoc not just on a defenseless town but on decades of Christmas clichés. Did you know that Gremlins inspired the creation of the PG-13 rating? Its darker themes were deemed too intense for a PG audience yet not quite R-rated material. If you’re in the mood for something edgier than your typical holiday fare, this film is an excellent choice.
#10 Bad Santa (2003)
While Christmas with the Kranks plays it safe, Bad Santa takes a completely different approach. This dark comedy stars Billy Bob Thornton as a foul-mouthed conman masquerading as a department store Santa. Packed with biting humor and an unexpectedly heartfelt ending, it’s a perfect choice for anyone who enjoys their Christmas movies with a sharp edge.
Pro tip: Skip the sequel, which lacks the charm of the original. Instead, enjoy Thornton’s hilariously unredeemable yet strangely lovable character and his unconventional Christmas spirit.
#09 Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
The incredible Edmund Gwenn, paired with a warmth that never feels overly sentimental, makes this film a true Christmas classic. The courtroom scenes, where the existence of Santa Claus is legally debated, provide a surprisingly engaging twist.
Fun fact: Gwenn won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Kris Kringle, making him the only actor to ever win an Oscar for playing Santa Claus. This movie isn’t just holiday cheer; it’s a story about belief, community, and the magic of the season.
#08 The Bishop’s Wife (1947)
Cary Grant shines as a charismatic angel who helps a struggling bishop rediscover faith, love, and his true purpose. What makes this film special is how its simple premise is elevated by subtle yet brilliant storytelling. Instead of being preachy, it gently reminds us of life’s most meaningful priorities.
Did we mention that Gregg Toland, the cinematographer behind Citizen Kane, worked on this too? His mastery is evident in the beautiful interplay of light and shadow throughout the film.
The Bishop’s Wife is a heartwarming tale of miracles and seasonal magic, ideal for anyone who adores the charm of old Hollywood (and we definitely do). Did you know the role of the angel was originally offered to David Niven, who instead played the bishop? To us, it’s hard to imagine anyone other than Grant embodying the role with such grace and warmth.
#07 Batman Returns (1992)
Tim Burton’s Gotham City is draped in snow and darkness, creating an unforgettable Christmas setting. With gripping battles, good sound design, a captivating Catwoman, and Burton’s gothic style, this action-packed sequel is a holiday standout. We also loved the romantic story between Catwoman and Batman. Until Christopher Nolan’s miraculous reboot, this was our favorite Batman.
#06 Lethal Weapon (1987)
Ah, the golden age of action films, when audiences demanded more than just CGI to stay hooked. This is the kind of movie you watch with your date, gripping her hand tightly as you root for Mel Gibson and Danny Glover. The action rarely lets up, yet the plot remains surprisingly solid, making it one of the best of its kind. Gibson and Glover’s chemistry set the gold standard for the buddy-cop genre.
And let’s settle it once and for all: yes, this is a Christmas movie – they are having Christmas dinner at the end. Director Richard Donner insisted on the holiday setting to contrast the film’s gritty action with themes of family and redemption.
#05 The Holdovers (2023)
Despite its moments of cynicism, Alexander Payne’s love for his characters in The Holdovers shines through—and that makes all the difference. Paul Giamatti delivers a stellar performance as a grumpy professor at a prestigious academy, stuck watching over the few who remain during Christmas break—or more accurately, one lonely student and the academy’s cook.
At first glance, it might seem like another “unlikely family learns important life lessons” story, but Payne and his team skillfully sidestep clichés, making those lessons feel authentic and earned. After all, don’t most of us have an unexpected friendship or mentorship that shaped the course of our lives?
#04 The Family Man (2000)
Yes, we dare to place this at No. 3—and we’re skipping IMDb ratings because they simply don’t apply here. This is our favorite Christmas underdog. Following the story of a Wall Street businessman, the film gives us a glimpse into a parallel life: one filled with love, family, and the kind of simple joys that money can’t buy.
It’s not a flawless movie, but it’s sincere, heartwarming, and manages to dodge (most) clichés. Nicolas Cage and Téa Leoni deliver one of the most authentic portrayals of a married couple we’ve seen on screen. Their love feels real, but they also face the everyday challenges of family life. What happens when you feel stuck? Wondering if you had made a different choice? What does happiness truly mean?
Brett Ratner, best known for Hollywood blockbusters like Rush Hour, takes a gentle approach here, showing that while family life isn’t perfect, an “ordinary” life with those we love is far more rewarding than Wall Street success. Critics have called it “unapologetically sentimental,” but for us, that’s part of its charm. Sometimes, you need a movie to remind you that happiness can be found in the life you already have. Some viewers have even said this film changed their lives. Do you need any more convincing than that?
#03 A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
Remember we said we sneaked in an animated film or two? Although it runs just a little more than 20 minutes, Schulz’s main goal for a Peanuts-based Christmas special, which he wrote himself, was to focus on the true meaning of Christmas. Despite producers pleading with him to make it more commercial, he didn’t back down.
The result? A simple yet deeply moving story, complete with an unforgettable scene where Linus explains the meaning of Christmas straight from the Gospel of Luke.
Fun fact: the production team was skeptical about using a jazz score by Vince Guaraldi, but it ended up defining the show’s charm and becoming a holiday music classic.
#02 It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
It’s remarkable how masters like Frank Capra manage to tell stories about “naive” characters, such as George Bailey, without falling into clichés. Through Bailey’s journey to find hope and embrace second chances, Capra crafts a timeless narrative that still resonates today.
It’s no wonder that both Capra and his star, James Stewart, called it their favorite film. Did you know this wasn’t an instant hit? Upon release, the film underperformed at the box office, but its syndication on television during the holidays turned it into a beloved classic. This is one of those rare classics that only improves with age. No Christmas feels complete without it.
#01 Die Hard (1988)
The ultimate Christmas action movie. Bruce Willis takes on terrorists during a holiday party, blending thrilling action with just enough holiday spirit to make it endlessly rewatchable.
This film has everything: a “boy loves girl – they almost break up – but the boy saves her from terrorists to prove his love” storyline, the endlessly charismatic Bruce Willis enduring pain we can practically feel (who could forget him running barefoot over shattered glass?), and John McTiernan’s expert direction, which seamlessly weaves together action, narration, and editing.
Alan Rickman’s portrayal of Hans Gruber was his first major film role, and his villainous performance added depth to what could have been a typical action-movie antagonist. For those who still question whether this qualifies as a Christmas movie despite being set during the holidays, it features Christmas trees, the ash in the climactic scene doubles as snow, and the finale is sealed with “Let It Snow.” What more proof do you need?
Yippee-ki-yay, Christmas lovers!
Conclusion
So, what will you watch first?
Whether you’re in the mood for laughs, action, or heartwarming stories, this list has something for everyone. From iconic classics like It’s a Wonderful Life and Miracle on 34th Street to unconventional favorites such as Die Hard and Gremlins, these films capture the spirit of the holiday season in their own unique ways.
If you’ve seen these movies before, this could be the perfect time to revisit them and rediscover the joy they bring. And if a few titles are new to you, why not add them to your watchlist? Whether it’s the nostalgia of A Charlie Brown Christmas, the humor of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, or the heartfelt lessons of The Family Man, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.
Did we miss any of your favorites? We can already think of a few ourselves, so don’t be shy—share your picks with us!
From all of us at HayotFilms, we wish you a blessed and merry Christmas.
Now, let the Christmas movie marathon begin!