Cozy Up: The Best Holiday Movies to Stream This Season
Alright, holiday movie lovers! It's that time of the year again when we can finally ditch our to-do lists, snuggle up with a warm blanket, and indulge in some good old-fashioned holiday movie magic. But with so many options out there, it can be a tad overwhelming to pick the best ones to stream. Fret not, movie buffs! We've done the heavy lifting for you and curated a list of the best holiday movies that are sure to get you into the festive spirit. So, grab your hot cocoa, and let's dive right in! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and best holiday movies to stream.
Classic Holiday Movies That Never Get Old
It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
Kicking off our list is this timeless classic that's been warming hearts for over seven decades. It's a Wonderful Life follows George Bailey, a man who has given up his dreams to help others, and whose life seems to be falling apart. On Christmas Eve, he becomes so desperate that he contemplates suicide, but he gets a chance to see what life would be like if he had never been born. This heartwarming tale, starring the incomparable James Stewart, is a must-watch every holiday season. It's available to stream on HBO Max.
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
Another classic that's been spreading Christmas cheer since the 40s is Miracle on 34th Street. This movie tells the story of a young girl who, after meeting a mysterious old man claiming to be Santa Claus, begins to believe in the magic of Christmas again. With its charming performances and heartwarming message, it's no wonder this film has become a holiday staple. You can stream it on HBO Max or Peacock.
Modern Holiday Favorites
Elf (2003)
No list of the best holiday movies would be complete without Elf, the hilarious and heartwarming tale of a human raised as an elf at the North Pole. Starring Will Ferrell in a role that was seemingly made for him, this movie is packed with laugh-out-loud moments and a sweet message about family and belonging. It's available to stream on HBO Max.
The Holiday (2006)
If you're in the mood for a romantic comedy with a dash of holiday cheer, The Holiday is just the ticket. This charming film follows two women, Amanda and Iris, who swap homes for the holidays and find love in unexpected places. With its stunning locations, witty dialogue, and an A-list cast including Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz, Jude Law, and Jack Black, The Holiday is a movie that's perfect for a cozy movie night with friends or a loved one. You can stream it on Netflix.
The Princess Switch (2018) & The Princess Switch: Switched Again (2020)
Netflix's The Princess Switch movies are like a delicious holiday treat that you can't get enough of. In the original film, a baker from Chicago swaps places with a duchess from a European kingdom, and chaos (and romance) ensues. The sequel, The Princess Switch: Switched Again, introduces another look-alike and doubles the fun. These movies are perfect for those who love a good rom-com with a dash of holiday magic. You can stream both films on Netflix.
Animated Holiday Delights
The Grinch (2018)
Dr. Seuss's beloved tale of the Grinch, the mean, green creature who hates Christmas, gets a CGI update in this 2018 film. With its stunning animation, catchy songs, and a heartwarming message about the true meaning of Christmas, The Grinch is a must-watch for the whole family. It's available to stream on HBO Max.
Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018)
While not a traditional holiday movie, Ralph Breaks the Internet features a memorable Christmas scene that's become a fan favorite. In this sequel to Wreck-It Ralph, Ralph and Vanellope find themselves in the vast world of the internet, where they encounter all sorts of colorful characters and hilarious situations. The Christmas scene, set in a bustling online shopping site, is a delightful tribute to the holiday season. You can stream it on Disney+.
Holiday Movies for the Whole Family
Home Alone (1990)
No family holiday movie marathon would be complete without Home Alone. This classic comedy follows Kevin McCallister, an eight-year-old boy who's accidentally left behind when his family goes on vacation. With his wit and resourcefulness, Kevin manages to protect his home from a pair of bumbling burglars. It's a hilarious and heartwarming film that's perfect for all ages. You can stream it on Peacock.
The Santa Clause (1994)
In The Santa Clause, Tim Allen plays Scott Calvin, a divorced father who accidentally causes Santa Claus to fall off his roof on Christmas Eve. When Scott puts on Santa's coat, he finds himself magically transporting to the North Pole and taking over Santa's duties. This fish-out-of-water comedy is a fun and festive movie that the whole family can enjoy. It's available to stream on Disney+.
Holiday Movies for When You're Feeling Festive and Scary
A Christmas Carol (2009)
If you're in the mood for a classic holiday tale with a touch of spookiness, A Christmas Carol is the perfect choice. This 2009 adaptation, directed by Robert Zemeckis, features stunning visuals and a powerhouse performance by Jim Carrey as Ebenezer Scrooge and the various ghosts that haunt him. It's available to stream on HBO Max.
Krampus (2015)
For something a little more scary, check out Krampus, a dark fantasy horror film that blends the myth of the Christmas devil with a twisted take on the classic holiday movie. When a disgruntled young boy named Max turns his back on Christmas, he inadvertently unleashes the wrath of Krampus, a ancient demon who punishes those who have lost the spirit of Christmas. It's a chilling and unique holiday movie that's perfect for fans of horror and the macabre. You can stream it on HBO Max.
Honorable Mentions
Die Hard (1988)
While not a traditional holiday movie, Die Hard is set on Christmas Eve and has become a holiday staple for many action movie fans. The film follows NYPD officer John McClane as he takes on a group of terrorists who have taken control of a Los Angeles skyscraper. It's available to stream on HBO Max.
Love Actually (2003)
This romantic comedy-drama follows the interconnected love lives of eight couples during the holiday season. With its star-studded cast, heartwarming moments, and a memorable soundtrack, Love Actually has become a modern holiday classic. You can stream it on HBO Max.
The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
This musical adaptation of A Christmas Carol features the Muppets in their signature comedic style. Kermit the Frog plays Bob Cratchit, Michael Caine plays Ebenezer Scrooge, and the entire Muppet gang brings the classic tale to life with humor and heart. It's available to stream on Disney+.
Wrap Up
There you have it, folks! Our list of the best holiday movies to stream this season. Whether you're in the mood for a classic, a romantic comedy, or an animated adventure, there's something on this list for everyone. So grab your favorite blanket, make some popcorn, and get ready to stream your way through the holidays. Happy viewing!