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Christmas movies, sorted by who is on the couch: kids, couples, the Die Hard crowd

148 Christmas titles chosen by hand and sorted by the room: the canon everyone rewatches, the kids' tier, the cozy and romantic ones, the grown-up comedies, the Die Hard argument, the horror, and the films that are merely set at Christmas. What is streaming right now sits first in every section, and every page carries scare, gore and emotional-weight tags.

The canon

The ones people mean when they say Christmas movie. Rewatched yearly, argued about never.

  1. 1It's a Wonderful Life posterIt's a Wonderful Life (1946)Heartwarming · family watch · emotionally heavy · measured · PGA selfless man's Christmas Eve crisis reveals how one life profoundly shapes an entire community.Prime Video · Hoopla · The Roku Channel
  2. 2Home Alone posterHome Alone (1990)Big broad humor · whimsical · family watch · mildly scary · PGAn eight-year-old left alone for Christmas defends his home with whimsical, brisk, and broadly funny booby traps.Disney+
  3. 3Home Alone 2: Lost in New York posterHome Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)Big broad humor · whimsical · family watch · mildly scary · PGA resourceful boy gets into holiday mischief and outsmarts bumbling bandits in a festive New York City.Disney+
  4. 4A Christmas Story posterA Christmas Story (1983)Wholesome humor · nostalgic · family watch · measured · PGA young boy's whimsical, wholesome quest for a BB gun defines a heartwarming 1940s Christmas.
  5. 5National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation posterNational Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989)Big broad humor · whimsical · date night · measured · PG-13A well-meaning father navigates a chaotic family Christmas, finding wholesome humor in every broad mishap.Plex
  6. 6The Nightmare Before Christmas posterThe Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)Whimsical · family watch · mildly scary · measured · PGA whimsical, darkly comic fantasy unfolds as the king of Halloween tries to hijack Christmas.Disney+
  7. 7How the Grinch Stole Christmas posterHow the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)Big broad humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · PGA green grump tries to steal Christmas, but a little girl's kindness brings heartwarming, wholesome cheer.Peacock
  8. 8How the Grinch Stole Christmas! posterHow the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · GA bitter Grinch, disguised as Santa, raids a village to steal Christmas cheer in this whimsical, feel-good animation.Peacock
  9. 9The Grinch posterThe Grinch (2018)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · PGA curmudgeonly green creature tries to steal Christmas cheer, but a small Who's kindness thaws his heart.Peacock
  10. 10Miracle on 34th Street posterMiracle on 34th Street (1947)Whimsical · family watch · measured · NRA department store Santa spreads heartwarming whimsy, making even the most skeptical believe in magic.Prime Video · Disney+
  11. 11Miracle on 34th Street posterMiracle on 34th Street (1994)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · PGA skeptical girl discovers the true spirit of Christmas when a whimsical man claims to be Santa.Disney+
  12. 12A Christmas Carol posterA Christmas Carol (2009)Heartwarming · family watch · mildly scary · emotionally heavy · PGSpirits guide a miser through his past and present, revealing the path to a heartwarming redemption.Prime Video · Disney+
  13. 13The Muppet Christmas Carol posterThe Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · mildly scary · GBeloved muppets bring a wholesome, whimsical, and heartwarming twist to a classic holiday tale.Disney+
  14. 14Scrooged posterScrooged (1988)Big broad humor · darkly comic · date night · emotionally heavy · PG-13A cynical TV executive finds darkly comic redemption through whimsical, ghostly visitations on Christmas Eve.Hoopla · YouTube (free)
  15. 15Spirited posterSpirited (2022)Dry wit · whimsical · date night · measured · PG-13A cynical man turns the tables on a Christmas ghost, sparking a witty, heartwarming, and uplifting holiday musical.Apple TV+
  16. 16Klaus posterKlaus (2019)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · PGA selfish postman and a reclusive toymaker deliver heartwarming joy to a cold town.Netflix
  17. 17The Santa Clause posterThe Santa Clause (1994)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · PGA divorced dad unexpectedly becomes Santa, navigating whimsical new duties and a heartwarming journey of self-belief.Disney+
  18. 18Jingle All the Way posterJingle All the Way (1996)Big broad humor · whimsical · family watch · brisk · PGA mattress salesman's Christmas Eve quest for a sold-out action figure becomes a brisk, broad comedy.Disney+
  19. 19A Charlie Brown Christmas posterA Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)Wholesome humor · cozy · family watch · measured · NRA wholesome, heartwarming animation finds a young boy struggling with materialism and discovering the true meaning of Christmas.Apple TV+
  20. 20Frosty the Snowman posterFrosty the Snowman (1969)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · NRA magical snowman and a young girl embark on a heartwarming, whimsical journey to the North Pole.Hulu · Paramount+
  21. 21White Christmas posterWhite Christmas (1954)Wholesome humor · cozy · date night · measured · NRTwo song-and-dance men find love and friendship while bringing music and warmth to a Vermont inn.Prime Video · Hoopla
  22. 22Holiday Inn posterHoliday Inn (1942)Wholesome humor · cozy · date night · measured · NRA crooner and a dancer chase the same lovely woman through a cozy, nostalgic holiday supper club.Prime Video
  23. 23Meet Me in St. Louis posterMeet Me in St. Louis (1944)Cozy · family watch · measured · GA heartwarming family year unfolds with measured pace, building cozy nostalgia for a grand 1904 World's Fair.Kanopy · Plex · Tubi
  24. 24The Bishop's Wife posterThe Bishop's Wife (1947)Whimsical · date night · measured · NRA charming angel brings whimsical disruption and heartwarming romance to a bishop's troubled life.Prime Video · Kanopy · Hoopla
  25. 25Scrooge posterScrooge (1951)Heartwarming · comfort watch · emotionally heavy · measured · NRA miserly man confronts his past and present, guided by spirits toward a heartwarming, uplifting Christmas.Kanopy · Plex · Tubi
  26. 26Mickey's Christmas Carol posterMickey's Christmas Carol (1983)Wholesome humor · cozy · family watch · measured · GClassic characters tell a cozy, wholesome tale of Christmas spirit and heartwarming, whimsical redemption.Disney+
  27. 27Love Actually posterLove Actually (2003)Wholesome humor · romantic · date night · measured · RMultiple London love stories intertwine at Christmas, delivering heartwarming and wholesome romantic comedy.Netflix · Starz
  28. 28The Holiday posterThe Holiday (2006)Wholesome humor · cozy · date night · measured · PG-13Two heartbroken women swap homes for the holidays, finding unexpected romance and a new lease on life.Hulu
  29. 29Elf posterElf (2003)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · PGA giant elf brings wholesome, broad humor and feel-good fantasy to the cynical streets of New York.
  30. 30The Polar Express posterThe Polar Express (2004)Whimsical · family watch · mildly scary · measured · GA doubting boy's extraordinary train ride to the North Pole reveals the enduring wonder of belief.
  31. 31Arthur Christmas posterArthur Christmas (2011)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · brisk · PGA whimsical and heartwarming animated adventure unfolds as a family comedy ensures every child gets their Christmas wish.
  32. 32Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer posterRudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · mildly scary · GA misfit reindeer, an elf, and a prospector journey through a whimsical, heartwarming world of adventure.
  33. 33The Shop Around the Corner posterThe Shop Around the Corner (1940)Dry wit · whimsical · date night · measured · NRTwo warring gift shop clerks unknowingly fall for each other through their charming, anonymous letters.

For the kids

Santa, snow and nobody dies. Every page lists the scare level anyway.

  1. 1Home Alone posterHome Alone (1990)Big broad humor · whimsical · family watch · mildly scary · PGAn eight-year-old left alone for Christmas defends his home with whimsical, brisk, and broadly funny booby traps.Disney+
  2. 2Home Alone 2: Lost in New York posterHome Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)Big broad humor · whimsical · family watch · mildly scary · PGA resourceful boy gets into holiday mischief and outsmarts bumbling bandits in a festive New York City.Disney+
  3. 3Home Alone 3 posterHome Alone 3 (1997)Big broad humor · whimsical · family watch · mildly scary · PGA resourceful kid with chicken pox defends his home from bumbling spies in a brisk, wholesome adventure.Disney+
  4. 4The Grinch posterThe Grinch (2018)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · PGA curmudgeonly green creature tries to steal Christmas cheer, but a small Who's kindness thaws his heart.Peacock
  5. 5How the Grinch Stole Christmas posterHow the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)Big broad humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · PGA green grump tries to steal Christmas, but a little girl's kindness brings heartwarming, wholesome cheer.Peacock
  6. 6How the Grinch Stole Christmas! posterHow the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · GA bitter Grinch, disguised as Santa, raids a village to steal Christmas cheer in this whimsical, feel-good animation.Peacock
  7. 7Klaus posterKlaus (2019)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · PGA selfish postman and a reclusive toymaker deliver heartwarming joy to a cold town.Netflix
  8. 8The Santa Clause posterThe Santa Clause (1994)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · PGA divorced dad unexpectedly becomes Santa, navigating whimsical new duties and a heartwarming journey of self-belief.Disney+
  9. 9The Santa Clause 2 posterThe Santa Clause 2 (2002)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · GA whimsical Santa Claus searches for a wife, bringing wholesome humor and heartwarming antics to the holiday season.Disney+
  10. 10The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause posterThe Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause (2006)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · GA magical council gathers as Jack Frost schemes to steal Christmas, leading to a heartwarming holiday adventure.Disney+
  11. 11Jingle All the Way posterJingle All the Way (1996)Big broad humor · whimsical · family watch · brisk · PGA mattress salesman's Christmas Eve quest for a sold-out action figure becomes a brisk, broad comedy.Disney+
  12. 12A Charlie Brown Christmas posterA Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)Wholesome humor · cozy · family watch · measured · NRA wholesome, heartwarming animation finds a young boy struggling with materialism and discovering the true meaning of Christmas.Apple TV+
  13. 13Frosty the Snowman posterFrosty the Snowman (1969)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · NRA magical snowman and a young girl embark on a heartwarming, whimsical journey to the North Pole.Hulu · Paramount+
  14. 14Mickey's Christmas Carol posterMickey's Christmas Carol (1983)Wholesome humor · cozy · family watch · measured · GClassic characters tell a cozy, wholesome tale of Christmas spirit and heartwarming, whimsical redemption.Disney+
  15. 15The Muppet Christmas Carol posterThe Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · mildly scary · GBeloved muppets bring a wholesome, whimsical, and heartwarming twist to a classic holiday tale.Disney+
  16. 16Olaf's Frozen Adventure posterOlaf's Frozen Adventure (2017)Wholesome humor · cozy · family watch · measured · GOlaf embarks on a whimsical, heartwarming adventure to gather beloved holiday traditions for his friends.Disney+
  17. 17Rise of the Guardians posterRise of the Guardians (2012)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · mildly scary · PGImmortal guardians unite in a brisk, wholesome, and epic adventure to protect the world's children.YouTube (free)
  18. 18The Christmas Chronicles posterThe Christmas Chronicles (2018)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · brisk · PGTwo resourceful siblings accidentally ground Santa's sleigh, embarking on a brisk, wholesome adventure to save Christmas.Netflix
  19. 19The Christmas Chronicles: Part Two posterThe Christmas Chronicles: Part Two (2020)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · brisk · PGWholesome humor and brisk adventure follow two kids helping Santa save Christmas from a magical menace.Netflix
  20. 20Noelle posterNoelle (2019)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · GKris Kringle's whimsical daughter embarks on a heartwarming mission to save Christmas with wholesome humor.Disney+
  21. 21A Boy Called Christmas posterA Boy Called Christmas (2021)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · PGA young boy's whimsical adventure to the snowy north unfolds with heartwarming charm and wholesome humor.Netflix
  22. 22Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey posterJingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · PGA whimsical toymaker and his granddaughter embark on a heartwarming, musical adventure that changes everything.Netflix
  23. 23The Nutcracker and the Four Realms posterThe Nutcracker and the Four Realms (2018)Whimsical · family watch · mildly scary · measured · PGA young girl discovers a whimsical, adventurous world where her inner strength can change everything.Disney+
  24. 24Home Alone 4 posterHome Alone 4 (2002)Big broad humor · whimsical · family watch · mildly scary · PGA mischievous boy defends a luxurious mansion from clumsy burglars with inventive, wholesome traps.Disney+
  25. 25Home Sweet Home Alone posterHome Sweet Home Alone (2021)Big broad humor · whimsical · family watch · mildly scary · PGA mischievous boy defends his home from bumbling burglars with wholesome, broad humor and whimsical traps.Disney+
  26. 26Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas posterIce Age: A Mammoth Christmas (2011)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · brisk · PGA whimsical, brisk adventure unfolds as a prehistoric posse scrambles to save Christmas with wholesome humor.Disney+
  27. 27Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas posterMickey's Once Upon a Christmas (1999)Wholesome humor · cozy · family watch · measured · GBeloved characters share three heartwarming tales of Christmas magic, filled with wholesome humor and cozy, whimsical cheer.Disney+
  28. 28Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas posterBeauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas (1997)Wholesome humor · cozy · family watch · measured · GBelle brings the cozy, whimsical spirit of Christmas to a gloomy castle and its beastly master.Disney+
  29. 298-Bit Christmas poster8-Bit Christmas (2021)Wholesome humor · nostalgic · family watch · measured · PGA 1980s kid’s quest for a new video game system becomes a wholesome, witty, and heartwarming Christmas tale.Max
  30. 30Red One posterRed One (2024)Big broad humor · epic · comfort watch · brisk · PG-13A whimsical, briskly paced fantasy adventure sends an unlikely duo on an epic, broad-humored quest to save Christmas.Prime Video
  31. 31Deck the Halls posterDeck the Halls (2006)Big broad humor · whimsical · family watch · brisk · PGTwo competitive neighbors escalate a wholesome holiday decorating rivalry to absurd, crowd-pleasing extremes.Plex
  32. 32Christmas with the Kranks posterChristmas with the Kranks (2004)Wholesome humor · cozy · family watch · measured · PGA couple tries to skip Christmas, but their wholesome neighborhood has other, cozier plans.Kanopy · Hoopla
  33. 33Godmothered posterGodmothered (2020)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · PGAn eager fairy godmother brings whimsical, feel-good chaos to a grown woman's modern-day problems.Disney+
  34. 34Family Switch posterFamily Switch (2023)Big broad humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · PGA rare planetary alignment hilariously switches family members, leading to heartwarming, wholesome, and whimsical chaos.Netflix
  35. 35Santa Claus: The Movie posterSanta Claus: The Movie (1985)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · PGA humble woodcutter fulfills his destiny, becoming Santa Claus with the help of an expert toy-making elf.Plex
  36. 36Elf posterElf (2003)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · PGA giant elf brings wholesome, broad humor and feel-good fantasy to the cynical streets of New York.
  37. 37The Polar Express posterThe Polar Express (2004)Whimsical · family watch · mildly scary · measured · GA doubting boy's extraordinary train ride to the North Pole reveals the enduring wonder of belief.
  38. 38Arthur Christmas posterArthur Christmas (2011)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · brisk · PGA whimsical and heartwarming animated adventure unfolds as a family comedy ensures every child gets their Christmas wish.
  39. 39Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer posterRudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · mildly scary · GA misfit reindeer, an elf, and a prospector journey through a whimsical, heartwarming world of adventure.
  40. 40Shrek the Halls posterShrek the Halls (2007)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · PGA grumpy ogre tries to create a perfect, cozy Christmas for his family, but unexpected guests arrive.
  41. 41Fred Claus posterFred Claus (2007)Big broad humor · whimsical · comfort watch · measured · PGA whimsical, heartwarming comedy unfolds as estranged brothers reconcile to save Christmas from an efficiency expert.
  42. 42Jack Frost posterJack Frost (1998)Wholesome humor · melancholy · family watch · emotionally heavy · PGA deceased father gets one whimsical, melancholic chance to reconnect with his son as a magical snowman.

Cozy, warm and romantic

Fireplaces, airports, second chances. The blanket-and-cocoa tier.

  1. 1Love Actually posterLove Actually (2003)Wholesome humor · romantic · date night · measured · RMultiple London love stories intertwine at Christmas, delivering heartwarming and wholesome romantic comedy.Netflix · Starz
  2. 2The Holiday posterThe Holiday (2006)Wholesome humor · cozy · date night · measured · PG-13Two heartbroken women swap homes for the holidays, finding unexpected romance and a new lease on life.Hulu
  3. 3Last Christmas posterLast Christmas (2019)Wholesome humor · romantic · date night · emotionally heavy · PG-13A young woman’s bad decisions lead to an unexpected romance and a journey of heartwarming self-discovery.Hulu
  4. 4While You Were Sleeping posterWhile You Were Sleeping (1995)Wholesome humor · cozy · date night · measured · PGA whimsical case of mistaken identity blossoms into heartwarming romance as a woman falls for a comatose man's brother.Disney+
  5. 5Serendipity posterSerendipity (2001)Wholesome humor · whimsical · date night · measured · PG-13Two strangers navigate whimsical chance encounters and cozy romantic yearning to find true love.Kanopy
  6. 6The Family Man posterThe Family Man (2000)Wholesome humor · romantic · date night · measured · PG-13A fast-paced executive wakes to a whimsical suburban life, finding heartwarming romance in unexpected places.Hulu
  7. 7Just Friends posterJust Friends (2005)Big broad humor · romantic · date night · brisk · PG-13A former nerd returns home for the holidays, unleashing broad, raunchy humor in pursuit of an old flame.Max
  8. 8Holidate posterHolidate (2020)Wholesome humor · romantic · date night · measuredTwo strangers navigate a year of platonic dates, finding unexpected romance and feel-good, wholesome humor.Netflix
  9. 9Love Hard posterLove Hard (2021)Wholesome humor · cozy · date night · measuredA whimsical holiday catfish scheme blossoms into unexpected romance, proving love finds a way.Netflix
  10. 10The Princess Switch posterThe Princess Switch (2018)Wholesome humor · whimsical · date night · measured · PGA charming baker and a princess trade lives, leading to wholesome, feel-good romantic comedy.Netflix
  11. 11The Princess Switch: Switched Again posterThe Princess Switch: Switched Again (2020)Wholesome humor · whimsical · family watch · measured · GTwo princesses and a party girl navigate royal duties and romance, bringing whimsical, heartwarming chaos.Netflix
  12. 12A Christmas Prince posterA Christmas Prince (2017)Cozy · date night · measured · PGAn undercover reporter finds heartwarming romance and royal intrigue while navigating a whimsical, cozy Christmas.Netflix
  13. 13A Christmas Prince: The Royal Wedding posterA Christmas Prince: The Royal Wedding (2018)Wholesome humor · cozy · date night · measured · PGA royal wedding at Christmas brings wholesome humor and heartwarming romance, despite pre-nuptial jitters and political crises.Netflix
  14. 14The Knight Before Christmas posterThe Knight Before Christmas (2019)Wholesome humor · whimsical · date night · measuredA medieval knight finds whimsical romance with a science teacher after time travel brings them together.Netflix
  15. 15Falling for Christmas posterFalling for Christmas (2022)Wholesome humor · cozy · family watch · measured · PGAn amnesiac heiress finds wholesome humor and heartwarming romance with a lodge owner and his daughter after a ski accident.Netflix
  16. 16Let It Snow posterLet It Snow (2019)Wholesome humor · cozy · date night · measured · PG-13A whimsical snowstorm brings young love and wholesome humor together on one cozy Christmas Eve.Netflix
  17. 17Happiest Season posterHappiest Season (2020)Wholesome humor · romantic · date night · measured · PG-13A holiday proposal goes hilariously sideways when one partner's family doesn't know she's gay.Hulu
  18. 18Single All the Way posterSingle All the Way (2021)Wholesome humor · cozy · date night · measuredA wholesome, witty holiday romance blossoms as a fake relationship turns real, all while family meddles.Netflix
  19. 19The Holiday Calendar posterThe Holiday Calendar (2018)Wholesome humor · cozy · family watch · measuredA magical Advent calendar guides a photographer toward unexpected romance and a heartwarming, whimsical future.Netflix
  20. 20Christmas Inheritance posterChristmas Inheritance (2017)Wholesome humor · cozy · date night · measuredA spoiled socialite finds heartwarming lessons and wholesome romance in a cozy small town.Netflix
  21. 21The Holdovers posterThe Holdovers (2023)Dry wit · melancholy · date night · emotionally heavy · RA curmudgeonly instructor, a troubled student, and a grieving cook find heartwarming connection during a snowy Christmas break.Peacock · Fandango at Home (free)
  22. 22Tokyo Godfathers posterTokyo Godfathers (2003)Dry wit · whimsical · family watch · emotionally heavy · PG-13Three homeless friends on Christmas Eve find a baby, embarking on a whimsical, heartwarming, and witty quest.Hoopla
  23. 23Joyeux Noel posterJoyeux Noel (2005)Earnest · date night · strong violence · emotionally devastating · PG-13On Christmas Eve 1914, soldiers on both sides of the trenches forge an intimate, heartwarming, and melancholy truce.The Roku Channel · YouTube (free)
  24. 24The Man Who Invented Christmas posterThe Man Who Invented Christmas (2017)Dry wit · heartwarming · family watch · measured · PGA struggling writer finds whimsical inspiration in childhood memories, creating a heartwarming tale that defines a holiday.Max · Kanopy · Hoopla
  25. 25Fanny and Alexander posterFanny and Alexander (1982)Bleak · full attention · emotionally devastating · measured · RA brother and sister navigate a bleak new reality, finding whimsy and melancholy in a dreamlike, atmospheric world.Max · Plex · Tubi
  26. 26The Family Stone posterThe Family Stone (2005)Dry wit · heartwarming · date night · emotionally heavy · PG-13A high-strung woman navigates her boyfriend's quirky family during a Christmas filled with witty chaos and unexpected warmth.Prime Video
  27. 27Love the Coopers posterLove the Coopers (2015)Wholesome humor · cozy · family watch · measured · PG-13Four generations of a family gather for Christmas Eve, finding heartwarming, whimsical chaos and rediscovering their bonds.
  28. 28Almost Christmas posterAlmost Christmas (2016)Wholesome humor · melancholy · comfort watch · emotionally heavy · PG-13A family navigates old wounds and new traditions during their first bittersweet holiday season without mom.Starz · YouTube (free)
  29. 29The Best Man Holiday posterThe Best Man Holiday (2013)Wholesome humor · romantic · date night · measured · ROld college friends rekindle heartwarming holiday romance and wholesome rivalries after fifteen years apart.Prime Video · Starz
  30. 30Dash & Lily posterDash & Lily (2020) · seriesWholesome humor · cozy · date night · measured · TV-14A cynical man and a sunny woman trade dares and messages across New York City at Christmastime.Netflix
  31. 31A Cinderella Story: Christmas Wish posterA Cinderella Story: Christmas Wish (2019)Wholesome humor · whimsical · date night · measured · PGA singing elf with big dreams navigates a cruel stepfamily and finds romance in a whimsical holiday tale.
  32. 32The Shop Around the Corner posterThe Shop Around the Corner (1940)Dry wit · whimsical · date night · measured · NRTwo warring gift shop clerks unknowingly fall for each other through their charming, anonymous letters.
  33. 33Last Holiday posterLast Holiday (2006)Wholesome humor · uplifting · date night · measured · PG-13An introverted saleswoman with weeks to live finds whimsical adventure and heartwarming connections on a European holiday.
  34. 34Four Christmases posterFour Christmases (2008)Big broad humor · crowd pleasing · date night · brisk · PG-13A couple's holiday avoidance scheme unravels into a brisk, wholesome comedy of family chaos.

Comedies for the grown-ups

Office parties, bad Santas and the family you did not choose.

  1. 1National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation posterNational Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989)Big broad humor · whimsical · date night · measured · PG-13A well-meaning father navigates a chaotic family Christmas, finding wholesome humor in every broad mishap.Plex
  2. 2Scrooged posterScrooged (1988)Big broad humor · darkly comic · date night · emotionally heavy · PG-13A cynical TV executive finds darkly comic redemption through whimsical, ghostly visitations on Christmas Eve.Hoopla · YouTube (free)
  3. 3Bad Santa posterBad Santa (2003)Dark satire · gritty · comfort watch · emotionally heavy · RA foul-mouthed con man in a Santa suit finds his bleak holiday heist complicated by an innocent child.Max
  4. 4Bad Santa 2 posterBad Santa 2 (2016)Dark satire · campy · comfort watch · strong violence · RA raunchy, gritty heist unfolds as a foul-mouthed Santa and his mother target a Chicago charity.Max
  5. 5Trading Places posterTrading Places (1983)Dry wit · satirical · date night · brisk · RTwo callous millionaires swap the lives of a snobbish investor and a street con artist in a brisk, satirical comedy.Kanopy · Hoopla · YouTube (free)
  6. 6Office Christmas Party posterOffice Christmas Party (2016)Big broad humor · crowd pleasing · comfort watch · brisk · RA raunchy, broad comedy unfolds as a wild office party tries to save everyone's jobs.Paramount+
  7. 7A Bad Moms Christmas posterA Bad Moms Christmas (2017)Raunchy humor · campy · date night · brisk · RThree over-burdened moms rebel against Christmas expectations with raunchy humor and brisk, crowd-pleasing camp.Paramount+
  8. 8Daddy's Home 2 posterDaddy's Home 2 (2017)Big broad humor · whimsical · comfort watch · measured · PG-13Four fathers navigate a chaotic Christmas, bringing broad humor and heartwarming, wholesome family antics.MGM+
  9. 9The Night Before posterThe Night Before (2015)Raunchy humor · campy · date night · brisk · RThree lifelong friends chase a legendary Christmas party, navigating New York's raunchy, darkly comic holiday chaos.Netflix
  10. 10The Family Stone posterThe Family Stone (2005)Dry wit · heartwarming · date night · emotionally heavy · PG-13A high-strung woman navigates her boyfriend's quirky family during a Christmas filled with witty chaos and unexpected warmth.Prime Video
  11. 11Love the Coopers posterLove the Coopers (2015)Wholesome humor · cozy · family watch · measured · PG-13Four generations of a family gather for Christmas Eve, finding heartwarming, whimsical chaos and rediscovering their bonds.
  12. 12A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas posterA Very Harold & Kumar Christmas (2011)Raunchy humor · campy · comfort watch · brisk · RA raunchy and absurdist Christmas adventure unfolds as two friends accidentally ignite a holiday disaster.Max
  13. 13The Ref posterThe Ref (1994)Dark satire · gritty · full attention · emotionally heavy · RA cat burglar's Christmas Eve hostage situation becomes a darkly-comic battle of wits with a bickering family.Prime Video · Hoopla
  14. 14The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special posterThe Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special (2022)Big broad humor · whimsical · comfort watch · brisk · PG-13Briskly paced, this wholesome, campy adventure delivers feel-good, broad humor across the galaxy.Disney+
  15. 15Eight Crazy Nights posterEight Crazy Nights (2002)Raunchy humor · campy · party watch · brisk · PG-13A party animal's wild antics land him in trouble, sparking a brisk, raunchy, and darkly-comic animated journey.YouTube (free)
  16. 16Grumpy Old Men posterGrumpy Old Men (1993)Dry wit · cozy · date night · measured · PG-13Two feuding neighbors escalate their lifelong rivalry with witty pranks when a charming new widow moves in.Paramount+
  17. 17Surviving Christmas posterSurviving Christmas (2004)Wholesome humor · cozy · date night · measured · PG-13A lonely executive pays a family to be his own, creating a wholesome, heartwarming, and whimsical holiday farce.Hoopla · YouTube (free)
  18. 18Four Christmases posterFour Christmases (2008)Big broad humor · crowd pleasing · date night · brisk · PG-13A couple's holiday avoidance scheme unravels into a brisk, wholesome comedy of family chaos.
  19. 19Last Holiday posterLast Holiday (2006)Wholesome humor · uplifting · date night · measured · PG-13An introverted saleswoman with weeks to live finds whimsical adventure and heartwarming connections on a European holiday.

The Die Hard argument

Yes, it counts. So do these. Christmas as a setting for mayhem.

  1. 1Die Hard posterDie Hard (1988)Suspenseful · light gore · brutal violence · emotionally heavy · RA lone, off-duty cop battles relentless terrorists in a gritty, suspenseful high-rise siege.Prime Video · Hulu
  2. 2Die Hard 2 posterDie Hard 2 (1990)Suspenseful · light gore · brutal violence · relentless · RA gritty, pulpy thriller unfolds as a lone cop battles relentless terrorists to save his wife's plane.Hulu
  3. 3Lethal Weapon posterLethal Weapon (1987)Gritty · light gore · brutal violence · emotionally heavy · RTwo mismatched detectives with a broad sense of humor relentlessly pursue a gritty, pulpy crime ring.
  4. 4Batman Returns posterBatman Returns (1992)Dark satire · gritty · late-night trip · strong violence · PG-13Gotham's dark, atmospheric streets host a gritty, darkly comic battle for the city's twisted soul.Max
  5. 5Violent Night posterViolent Night (2022)Campy · graphic gore · brutal violence · relentless · RA darkly comic Santa delivers relentless, pulpy action when mercenaries crash Christmas Eve.Netflix
  6. 6Carry-On posterCarry-On (2024)Suspenseful · strong violence · emotionally heavy · relentless · PG-13A relentless Christmas Eve thriller where an airport security officer races to outsmart a mysterious, dangerous traveler.Netflix
  7. 7Iron Man 3 posterIron Man 3 (2013)Dry wit · high octane · party watch · strong violence · PG-13A brilliant inventor battles a powerful terrorist in a brisk, high-octane adventure with witty humor.Disney+
  8. 8Kiss Kiss Bang Bang posterKiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005)Pulpy · light gore · strong violence · brisk · RA petty thief, a dream girl, and a detective stumble through a darkly comedic, pulpy murder mystery.
  9. 9Reindeer Games posterReindeer Games (2000)Suspenseful · light gore · strong violence · emotionally heavy · RAn ex-con assumes a dead man's identity, then finds himself caught in a pulpy, tense casino heist.Hoopla
  10. 10Silent Night posterSilent Night (2023)Gritty · graphic gore · brutal violence · emotionally devastating · RA grieving father, mute and relentless, trains for a brutal Christmas Eve revenge mission against a gang.
  11. 11Red One posterRed One (2024)Big broad humor · epic · comfort watch · brisk · PG-13A whimsical, briskly paced fantasy adventure sends an unlikely duo on an epic, broad-humored quest to save Christmas.Prime Video
  12. 12L.A. Confidential posterL.A. Confidential (1997)Gritty · graphic gore · brutal violence · emotionally heavy · RThree Los Angeles detectives navigate 1950s corruption and pulpy violence to expose a dark conspiracy.Prime Video
  13. 13Go posterGo (1999)Pulpy · light gore · strong violence · relentless · RA supermarket clerk's drug deal ignites a relentless, darkly comedic thrill ride through a gritty underworld.
  14. 14Hawkeye posterHawkeye (2021) · seriesDry wit · suspenseful · comfort watch · brisk · TV-14A wry archer and his aspiring protégé battle a shadowy past to save Christmas with brisk, wholesome wit.Disney+
  15. 15The Long Kiss Goodnight posterThe Long Kiss Goodnight (1996)Pulpy · light gore · brutal violence · relentless · RA suburban mom with amnesia rediscovers her past as a deadly assassin in a relentless, darkly comic thriller.
  16. 16Fatman posterFatman (2020)Dark satire · pulpy · late-night trip · strong violence · RA neglected boy hires a hitman to take out a struggling Santa in this darkly comic, pulpy action fantasy.

Horror for the holidays

Krampus, killer Santas and one very bad night at Grandma's. Scare levels on every page.

  1. 1Gremlins posterGremlins (1984)Properly scary · light gore · strong violence · brisk · PGA darkly comic Christmas gift unleashes malevolent, mischievous creatures on a small town.Max
  2. 2Gremlins 2: The New Batch posterGremlins 2: The New Batch (1990)Mildly scary · light gore · strong violence · brisk · PG-13An office building in New York City is overrun by genetically altered, devilish green creatures in a brisk, absurdist horror-comedy.Max · YouTube (free)
  3. 3Krampus posterKrampus (2015)Properly scary · light gore · strong violence · measured · PG-13A dysfunctional family's holiday squabbles summon a chilling, darkly comic demonic force with a taste for naughty.Prime Video · Peacock
  4. 4Better Watch Out posterBetter Watch Out (2017)Properly scary · light gore · strong violence · brisk · RA suburban babysitting gig turns into a briskly paced, darkly comedic home invasion with chilling twists.Prime Video · Peacock · Kanopy
  5. 5Black Christmas posterBlack Christmas (1974)Properly scary · light gore · strong violence · measured · RObscene calls terrorize a sorority house during Christmas, building chilling dread with each passing moment.Prime Video · Peacock · AMC+
  6. 6Silent Night, Deadly Night posterSilent Night, Deadly Night (1984)Properly scary · extreme gore · brutal violence · emotionally heavy · RA traumatic childhood resurfaces when a man in a Santa suit unleashes a chilling, pulpy rampage.Prime Video · AMC+ · The Roku Channel
  7. 7Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale posterRare Exports: A Christmas Tale (2010)Mildly scary · light gore · strong violence · measured · RA young boy discovers a sinister Santa unearthed in the Arctic, blending dark humor with suspenseful fantasy.Prime Video · Kanopy · Hoopla
  8. 8Anna and the Apocalypse posterAnna and the Apocalypse (2018)Mildly scary · light gore · brisk · RTeenagers sing and dance through a zombie apocalypse, finding darkly comic cheer amid holiday chaos.AMC+ · The Roku Channel · Tubi
  9. 9Terrifier 3 posterTerrifier 3 (2024)Terrifying · extreme gore · brutal violence · emotionally heavy · NRA relentless, pulpy nightmare unfolds as a monstrous clown terrorizes a family during the Christmas season.Prime Video · Hoopla
  10. 10The Lodge posterThe Lodge (2020)Properly scary · light gore · strong violence · emotionally devastating · RA chilling blizzard traps children and their new stepmother in a remote lodge as her dark past resurfaces.Kanopy · Tubi
  11. 11P2 posterP2 (2007)Properly scary · light gore · strong violence · emotionally heavy · RA businesswoman's Christmas Eve becomes a relentless, chilling fight for survival in a gritty parking garage.Prime Video · Kanopy · The Roku Channel
  12. 12Inside posterInside (2007)Terrifying · extreme gore · brutal violence · emotionally devastating · RA pregnant woman's Christmas Eve turns into a relentless, chilling fight for survival against a brutal home invader.Tubi

Set at Christmas, not about it

The tree is in the corner of the frame. For people who want the season without the sermon.

  1. 1Eyes Wide Shut posterEyes Wide Shut (1999)Surreal · emotionally heavy · measured · RA doctor's marital crisis leads him into a surreal, intimate, and suspenseful night of discovery.Max
  2. 2The Apartment posterThe Apartment (1960)Dry wit · melancholy · date night · emotionally heavyA lonely clerk navigates corporate climbing and romantic melancholy through a darkly comedic New York.Kanopy · Hoopla · YouTube (free)
  3. 3Catch Me If You Can posterCatch Me If You Can (2002)Dry wit · feel good · date night · emotionally heavy · PG-13A witty con man eludes a gritty FBI agent in a brisk, earnest, true-crime caper.Paramount+ · Peacock · Kanopy
  4. 4Edward Scissorhands posterEdward Scissorhands (1990)Whimsical · date night · emotionally heavy · measured · PG-13A gentle, unfinished creation finds bittersweet love and acceptance in a pastel, whimsical suburban world.Disney+ · Hulu
  5. 5Little Women posterLittle Women (2019)Heartwarming · comfort watch · emotionally heavy · measured · PGFour earnest sisters navigate love and loss while coming of age in Civil War-era America.Hulu
  6. 6Carol posterCarol (2015)Melancholy · date night · emotionally heavy · measured · RA department store clerk in 1950s New York finds intimate, melancholic romance with an older, married woman.Prime Video · Kanopy · Hoopla
  7. 7Bridget Jones's Diary posterBridget Jones's Diary (2001)Dry wit · whimsical · date night · measured · RA charmingly awkward woman navigates workplace romance and unexpected attraction while documenting every hilarious misstep.Paramount+ · Starz · Kanopy
  8. 8You've Got Mail posterYou've Got Mail (1998)Dry wit · cozy · date night · measured · PGTwo charming booksellers, rivals in real life, fall for each other through anonymous online messages.Paramount+ · YouTube (free)
  9. 9Sleepless in Seattle posterSleepless in Seattle (1993)Dry wit · cozy · date night · measured · PGA grieving boy's radio call sparks a whimsical, cross-country romance, proving love finds a way.Netflix
  10. 10Brazil posterBrazil (1985)Dark satire · surreal · full attention · strong violence · RA drab bureaucrat's surreal daydreams collide with a darkly comic, absurdly bleak reality.YouTube (free)
  11. 11Shazam! posterShazam! (2019)Big broad humor · feel good · family watch · strong violence · PG-13A foster kid transforms into a superhero, navigating newfound powers with broad humor and brisk action.Max
  12. 12The Green Knight posterThe Green Knight (2021)Epic · late-night trip · strong violence · graphic gore · RA reckless knight journeys through an atmospheric, dreamlike world to confront a giant, emerald-skinned stranger.Hulu · Plex
  13. 13Spencer posterSpencer (2021)Melancholy · full attention · emotionally devastating · measured · RA princess trapped in a gilded cage confronts her spiraling despair and the end of a fairy tale.Kanopy
  14. 14The Impossible posterThe Impossible (2012)Tense · light gore · emotionally devastating · measured · PG-13A family's idyllic holiday shatters into a harrowing fight for survival against nature's terrifying wrath.Netflix
  15. 15The Thin Man posterThe Thin Man (1934)Dry wit · cozy · date night · brisk · NRA witty, wholesome mystery unfolds briskly as a husband and wife solve a cozy, whimsical crime.Kanopy
  16. 16Tangerine posterTangerine (2015)Absurdist humor · gritty · late-night trip · emotionally heavy · RA sex worker's Christmas Eve quest for a cheating boyfriend becomes a brisk, darkly comic odyssey through Los Angeles.Kanopy · Hoopla · The Roku Channel
  17. 17About a Boy posterAbout a Boy (2002)Dry wit · heartwarming · date night · measured · PG-13A bachelor invents a son to meet women, then finds heartwarming, whimsical lessons from a geeky 12-year-old.YouTube (free)
  18. 18Joyeux Noel posterJoyeux Noel (2005)Earnest · date night · strong violence · emotionally devastating · PG-13On Christmas Eve 1914, soldiers on both sides of the trenches forge an intimate, heartwarming, and melancholy truce.The Roku Channel · YouTube (free)
  19. 19Tokyo Godfathers posterTokyo Godfathers (2003)Dry wit · whimsical · family watch · emotionally heavy · PG-13Three homeless friends on Christmas Eve find a baby, embarking on a whimsical, heartwarming, and witty quest.Hoopla
  20. 20In Bruges posterIn Bruges (2008)Dark satire · gritty · full attention · brutal violence · RTwo hitmen in Belgium await a dark assignment, confronting their past with witty, melancholy humor.
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