Must-Watch Christmas Movies for the Season

Christmas Movies to Brighten Your Holiday Season

The holidays are here, and there’s no better way to soak up the festive vibes than with a lineup of Christmas movies. From timeless classics to fresh flicks, these films are sure to brighten your holiday season.

Get ready to laugh, cry, and feel feel all the holiday warmth as we take you through a magical journey of holiday hits. Grab your favorite snacks, and let’s dive into the ultimate Christmas movie watchlist.

That Christmas

That Christmas is a heartwarming animated holiday film directed by Simon Otto, based on Richard Curtis’s children’s book series. The voice cast includes Brian Cox, Fiona Shaw, and Bill Nighy, breathing life into this charming holiday story.

Set in the town of Wellington-on-Sea, the story follows residents struggling with the worst snowstorm in history, which even threatens Santa’s plans. With a Netflix release in December 2024, this movie promises a delightful mix of humor and holiday magic.

Meet Me Next Christmas

Meet Me Next Christmas (2024) is a charming holiday rom-com that brings together Christmas magic and romance in a snowy New York City setting. Starring Christina Milian as Layla, the film follows her quest to find the perfect Christmas connection.

Layla races to find a ticket to a sold-out Pentatonix concert, sparking a whirlwind of romance and Christmas magic. It’s a must-watch for anyone looking for heartwarming holiday fun.

Hot Frosty

Hot Frosty (2024) is a charming holiday rom-com that brings some festive magic to Netflix. The movie stars Lacey Chabert as Kathy, who forms an unlikely connection with Jack, a snowman brought to life. With an ensemble cast including Dustin Milligan, Craig Robinson, and Lauren Holly, the movie blends lighthearted humor with heartfelt moments.

As Jack navigates life in a human world, Kathy and him grow close, facing obstacles from the town sheriff and his melting condition. It’s an amusing yet touching holiday tale that’s sure to melt your heart.

Carnage for Christmas

Carnage for Christmas is an Australian horror film set around the holiday season, blending mystery and dark humor. Directed by Alice Maio Mackay, the movie revolves around Lola, a true-crime podcaster who returns to her hometown, only to find herself wrapped up in a chilling mystery involving a historic murderer’s ghost.

The film mixes gore, eerie holiday imagery, and dark humor, creating an unsettling atmosphere. Its tension-filled narrative not only explores societal fears but also personal struggles, making it a distinct holiday horror experience.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (2024) is a fun, family-friendly flick based on Barbara Robinson’s classic book. It’s all about the wild Herdman kids who take over the local church’s Christmas pageant, causing chaos but also showing the true meaning of Christmas.

Directed by Dallas Jenkins of The Chosen fame, the film stars Judy Greer, Pete Holmes, and Lauren Graham. With a perfect blend of humor and heart, it’s a holiday movie that’s got something for both kids and adults to enjoy.

An Almost Christmas Story

An Almost Christmas Story is an animated short directed by David Lowery, featuring a unique cardboard-inspired world. The story follows an owl Moon, trapped in a Christmas tree headed for Rockefeller Plaza, who teams up with a lost girl, Luna, on a heartwarming adventure to return home and discover the true magic of Christmas.

With a star-studded voice cast including Jim Gaffigan and John C. Reilly, the film celebrates friendship, family, and imagination. The film’s enchanting animation and heartwarming plot make it a standout holiday tale.

Terrifier 3

Terrifier 3 is set to bring even more blood and gore with Art the Clown back to terrorize Sienna Shaw and her family. Sienna and her brother are still haunted by Art the Clown’s Halloween massacre. Just as they try to enjoy Christmas, Art returns to turn their holiday into a new nightmare with his twisted terror.

The movie stars David Howard Thornton as Art the Clown and Lauren LaVera as Sienna, as the plot escalates with Art continuing his brutal reign. This holiday horror promises more intense gore and fear as Art’s deadly rampage leaves no holiday safe.

Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point

Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point (2024) follows the Balsano family as they gather for their final Christmas in their ancestral home. Amidst the holiday chaos, two rebellious younger members disrupt the festivities, leading to a heartwarming exploration of family dynamics and the bittersweet nature of reunion.

Directed by Tyler Thomas Taormina and starring Michael Cera, Matilda Fleming, and Elsie Fisher, the film premiered at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. It blends humor and emotional depth, offering a reflection on family and change during the holiday season.

Our Little Secret

Our Little Secret brings the holiday chaos with Lindsay Lohan and Ian Harding in a hilarious comedy. Avery (Lohan) unexpectedly crosses paths with her ex, Logan (Harding), when their new partners reveal they’re siblings. Now, they’re stuck under one roof for Christmas, and things get hilariously awkward as they try to survive the holiday together.

With a fun supporting cast including Kristin Chenoweth, Tim Meadows, and Chris Parnell, this festive flick is directed by Stephen Herek.

Dear Santa

Dear Santa is a hilarious holiday flick with a twist. When young Liam Turner writes a letter to Santa, a typo sends it straight to Satan instead, played by the hilarious Jack Black. Chaos ensues as Satan shows up to grant Liam’s wish, leading to a mix of mischief and mayhem.

Starring a great ensemble including Keegan-Michael Key, Ben Stiller, and Post Malone, Dear Santa brings family fun with a mischievous twist. Directed by Bobby Farrelly, this comedy is the perfect holiday movie for those looking for a fresh, funny take on Christmas.

Santa’s Cousin

Santa’s Cousin is a heartwarming holiday romance set to release in December 2024. Directed by Ross Kagan Marks, it stars Eric Roberts as Santa Claus’s cousin, sent to the town of Ruidoso, New Mexico, to fulfill a Christmas wish. Santa tasks him with saving a wild horse rescue program, but along the way, he meets Natalie, a feisty single mom.

As the story unfolds, Santa’s cousin and Natalie are unknowingly part of a much bigger wish, which will lead to a holiday miracle and, of course, love. This movie is perfect for fans of holiday magic and heartwarming tales.

A Sudden Case of Christmas

A Sudden Case of Christmas is a holiday comedy about Claire, a young girl whose parents are divorcing. To help save their marriage, she convinces them to celebrate Christmas in August at her grandfather’s hotel in Italy. The film stars Danny DeVito, Andie MacDowell, and Wilmer Valderrama, offering a heartfelt story about family and holiday miracles.

Directed by Peter Chelsom, the movie is a remake of the 2022 Italian film Improvvisamente Natale and is available digitally in the U.S. as of November 7, 2024.

Brewster’s Millions: Christmas

Brewster’s Millions: Christmas is a festive twist on the classic comedy, following Morgan Brewster (China Anne McClain) as she works to inherit her uncle’s fortune before Christmas. To do so, she faces a series of challenges with humor and holiday spirit.

Directed by Patricia Cuffie-Jones, the film also stars Romeo Miller, Rain Pryor, and Richard Pryor Jr. It premiered on BET+ on December 5, 2024, bringing a blend of family fun and festive chaos to the holiday season.

Red One: A Holiday Rescue Like No Other

What happens when Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans join forces for Christmas? Pure holiday mayhem and magic. This action-packed movie shakes up the festive genre with a daring mix of adventure and mythological fun.

From saving Santa to battling killer snowmen, this flick has it all, laughs, thrills, and an epic showdown with a wickedly fun villain. If you’re ready for a holiday movie that’s anything but ordinary, Red One delivers.

Curious about how big budgets don’t always lead to big returns? Check out Red One’s Big Budget vs. Small Returns for a deeper dive.

Wrapping Up the Magic

To wrap up, this season’s Christmas movies bring the perfect mix of warmth, humor, and excitement for all tastes. From heartwarming tales to thrilling twists, there’s a festive movie for everyone in your holiday lineup.

As you dive into these films, get ready for cozy nights, belly laughs, and a few spine-tingling moments. This holiday season is packed with joy, adventure, and unforgettable cinematic moments to make your Christmas extra special.

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Red One Premieres on Prime Video in December