Best Christmas Movies to Get You in the Holiday Spirit

The Magic of Christmas Movies

Christmas movies hold a special place in many people's hearts. They capture the magic and joy of the holiday season like nothing else. Sitting down with family or friends to watch a festive film on a cold winter's night is one of the best parts of Christmas.

From black and white classics to more modern takes, there is a Christmas movie to suit all tastes. Romantic comedies, animated films, and stories that focus on family or faith all help get you into the Christmas spirit.

Timeless Classics

Some Christmas movies stand the test of time and remain holiday favorites year after year. These classic films always provide a healthy dose of nostalgia.

It's a Wonderful Life (1946) starring James Stewart is one oldie but goodie on many people's Christmas movie watch lists. This drama shows what life would be like if one man had never existed and reminds us to appreciate all the people in our lives.

White Christmas (1954) with Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney is another vintage favorite. Catchy musical numbers and a heartwarming plot as two WWII vets try to save their former commander's hotel make this movie irresistibly charming.

Modern Christmas Classics

In recent decades, several new movies have joined the canon of beloved Christmas films.

The comedy Elf (2003) with Will Ferrell is a contemporary classic with lots of laughs. Buddy the elf heads to New York City to find his birth father and spread Christmas cheer in a story that has become a new family favorite.

Another comedy that has achieved Christmas movie fame is Love Actually (2003). This British rom-com weaves together different storylines about people falling love during the holidays with an exceptional ensemble cast.

Family Friendly Fare

Parents looking for Christmas movies to watch with the kids need to consider options the whole family can enjoy together.

The perennially popular Home Alone (1990) is a great family film. Young Kevin gets accidentally left behind when his family travels for the holidays and has to defend his house from burglars.

Enchanting stories like The Polar Express (2004) also make for great family viewing. The beautiful animation and sense of wonder in this tale of a magical Christmas train ride captivates children.

Must-See Christmas Comedies

If you're looking for movies that get you into a mirthful, merry mood, Christmas comedies are sure to deliver.

The Santa Clause (1994) brings the laughs as Tim Allen takes over the responsibilities of Santa Claus after causing an unfortunate accident on Christmas Eve.

No list of funny Christmas movies would be complete without National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989). Chase family holiday hijinks with Chevy Chase culminate in hilarious and cringe-worthy results.

Heartwarming Christmas Romances

Christmas is a time for being with loved ones, so it's no surprise many holiday movies focus on romance.

Love Actually has become a Christmas favorite for romance fans thanks to its sweet stories of people finding new love. Another British Christmas romantic-comedy worth watching is The Holiday (2006) starring Kate Winslet and Cameron Diaz.

More family friendly options include The Christmas Chronicles (2018) on Netflix starring Kurt Russell as a sexy Santa Claus. He teams up with two siblings to save Christmas in this action-packed yet heartfelt story.

Finding Your New Favorite

The beauty of Christmas movies is that there are so many excellent options to choose from. Classics from decades past or more modern takes, funny films the whole family enjoys or romantic stories to get you in the Christmas spirit - whichever genre you prefer, there is bound to be a holiday movie out there that you'll want to watch year after year.

So grab a mug of hot cocoa, cuddle up under your coziest Christmas blanket, and let some festive films help get you feeling merry and bright this holiday season.

FAQs

What are some classic Christmas movies I should watch?

Some all-time classic Christmas movies include It's a Wonderful Life, White Christmas, Miracle on 34th Street, and A Christmas Story.

What are good Christmas movies to watch with kids?

Great family-friendly Christmas movies include Home Alone, Elf, The Polar Express, Arthur Christmas, and How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966 animated version).

What are some of the funniest Christmas movies?

Hilarious Christmas comedies include National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, Elf, The Santa Clause, Bad Santa, and Four Christmases.

What are some good Netflix/Hallmark Christmas movies?

Popular Christmas movies on Netflix and Hallmark include The Christmas Chronicles, The Princess Switch, Christmas Inheritance, The Holiday, and A Christmas Prince.