The holiday season is the perfect time to indulge in some festive binge-watching, and what better way to enjoy the cozy atmosphere than by curling up with a classic or new Christmas movie? Whether you’re looking for a feel-good family film, a romantic holiday flick, or something a bit quirky, streaming services like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney Plus offer a wide variety of Christmas movies to suit every taste.
After a year of horror movie marathons and Halloween movie challenges, I decided to create my own Christmas movie advent calendar for December. Over the first 12 days of the month, I watched a different Christmas movie every evening. While the process was a lot less intense than my October horror experiment, I quickly realized just how many incredible holiday titles are available on popular streaming platforms. The hardest part was narrowing down my list to just 12 movies.
So, if you’re looking for the best holiday flicks to enjoy over the Christmas season, look no further! Here are the 12 Christmas movies I watched this December, each guaranteed to make your festive season more enjoyable.
1. Hot Frosty (2024)
Streaming On: Netflix (US, UK, and AU)
Director: Jerry Ciccoritti
Running Time: 92 minutes
I kicked off my Christmas movie marathon with a brand-new Netflix original, Hot Frosty, which combines romance with a fairytale twist. The film follows a widowed woman (played by Lacey Chabert) who brings a snowman to life, only to fall in love with the man-shaped snowman (Dustin Milligan) before he melts. It’s a lighthearted, if somewhat bizarre, take on the Christmas romance genre. Despite the cheesy premise and over-the-top acting, the movie was surprisingly charming. It’s a classic example of the quirky Netflix Christmas films that have become so popular in recent years.
2. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Streaming On: Netflix (UK); Netflix, Prime Video (AU)
Director: Ron Howard
Running Time: 105 minutes
No Christmas list would be complete without the Grinch! Jim Carrey’s portrayal of Dr. Seuss’s green, Christmas-hating villain is iconic. His larger-than-life performance, coupled with extravagant costumes and sets, makes How the Grinch Stole Christmas a holiday classic. Despite a mediocre 49% score on Rotten Tomatoes, the film’s over-the-top humor and heartwarming ending make it a must-watch every year. For those who grew up with this version, it’s guaranteed to bring nostalgia and laughs.
3. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
Streaming On: Prime Video, Plex (US); Prime Video, Plex, Pluto TV (UK); Stan, Plex (AU)
Director: Frank Capra
Running Time: 129 minutes
It’s a Wonderful Life is one of the most iconic Christmas movies ever made, and for good reason. It tells the heartwarming story of George Bailey, played by James Stewart, who is shown what life would have been like without him. While the movie’s pacing might feel slow by modern standards, its emotional depth and timeless themes of family and community make it an essential holiday watch. If you haven’t seen it yet, make sure to check it off your holiday list this year.
4. Home Alone (1990)
Streaming On: Disney Plus (US, UK, and AU)
Director: Chris Columbus
Running Time: 102 minutes
Home Alone is a Christmas classic that never gets old. Watching young Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) fend off burglars Harry and Marv with his elaborate traps is a holiday tradition for many. While the film has spawned numerous sequels, the original Home Alone still reigns supreme. Its slapstick comedy, witty one-liners, and festive New York City backdrop make it a must-watch every December.
5. Our Little Secret (2024)
Streaming On: Netflix (US, UK, and AU)
Director: Steven Herreck
Running Time: 100 minutes
Starring Lindsay Lohan and Ian Harding, Our Little Secret is a Netflix Christmas movie with a twist. The film follows ex-lovers who are reunited at Christmas after a decade apart, only to discover their new partners are siblings. This rom-com features plenty of cheesy moments, but it’s still a fun and lighthearted watch. Lohan’s performance is charming, and the film’s mix of family drama and Christmas magic makes it a delightful holiday pick.
6. The Merry Gentlemen (2024)
Streaming On: Netflix (US, UK, and AU)
Director: Peter Sullivan
Running Time: 86 minutes
The Merry Gentlemen is another 2024 Netflix Christmas release, but unfortunately, it didn’t live up to my expectations. The story revolves around a small-town dance troupe and their attempts to save a local venue by hosting an all-male dance act. While the premise could have been fun, the film falls flat with weak performances and an uninspired script. If you’re looking for something more heartwarming or magical, this may not be the one.
7. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Streaming On: Disney Plus (US, UK, and AU)
Director: Henry Sellick
Running Time: 75 minutes
Is The Nightmare Before Christmas a Halloween movie or a Christmas movie? The answer is both! Tim Burton’s stop-motion animated masterpiece is a unique holiday film that has become a cult classic. The film’s stunning animation, unforgettable characters, and memorable songs make it perfect for both spooky and festive seasons. Jack Skellington’s adventures in Christmastown are a holiday delight for fans of all ages.
8. A Nonsense Christmas (2024)
Streaming On: Netflix (US, UK, and AU)
Director: Sam Wrench
Running Time: 50 minutes
For a change of pace, I decided to watch A Nonsense Christmas, a variety special hosted by Sabrina Carpenter. This Netflix special features a mix of holiday sketches, musical performances, and comedy that’s perfect for those who want a break from traditional Christmas movies. Carpenter’s charm and the appearance of celebrity guests like Shania Twain make this an entertaining, feel-good watch. If you’re looking for something festive but different, this is the one for you.
9. The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
Streaming On: Disney Plus (US, UK, and AU)
Director: Brian Henson
Running Time: 85 minutes
The Muppet Christmas Carol is a beloved retelling of Charles Dickens’ classic novella, starring Michael Caine as Ebenezer Scrooge and the Muppets as the rest of the cast. The combination of humor, heart, and catchy songs makes this version of A Christmas Carol a timeless family favorite. It’s charming for both children and adults, and every year, I find myself laughing at the Muppets’ antics.
10. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)
Streaming On: Disney Plus (US, UK, and AU)
Director: Chris Columbus
Running Time: 120 minutes
I’m one of the few who prefers Home Alone 2: Lost in New York to the original. There’s something about the extravagant New York City setting, the festive decorations, and the iconic scenes at places like Central Park and Rockefeller Center that make this sequel extra special. The hijinks are just as funny as in the first movie, and Kevin’s elaborate traps for the burglars are even more ridiculous. If you haven’t seen it yet, you’re missing out on a true holiday gem.
11. Falling for Christmas (2022)
Streaming On: Netflix (US, UK, and AU)
Director: Janeen Damian
Running Time: 95 minutes
Lindsay Lohan’s return to the holiday movie scene came in Falling for Christmas, a romantic comedy that is equal parts cheesy and delightful. Lohan plays a wealthy hotel heiress who loses her memory in a skiing accident and ends up falling in love with the lodge owner who helps her recover. Though the plot is predictable, it’s a perfect movie for those who enjoy feel-good, Hallmark-style Christmas films with a bit of a modern twist.
12. Love Actually (2003)
Streaming On: Prime Video (US); Netflix, Prime Video, Paramount Plus (AU)
Director: Richard Curtis
Running Time: 130 minutes
Finally, Love Actually is the quintessential Christmas movie for those who love romance and ensemble casts. The film follows the lives of various characters whose lives intersect in the weeks leading up to Christmas. With an all-star cast including Hugh Grant, Colin Firth, Emma Thompson, and Alan Rickman, Love Actually is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. Its blend of humor, romance, and emotional moments makes it a holiday favorite that never gets old.
Conclusion
There you have it – 12 of the best Christmas movies to stream this season on Netflix, Prime Video, Disney Plus, and beyond. Whether you’re in the mood for comedy, romance, or a bit of magic, these holiday films offer something for everyone. So, grab a cup of hot cocoa (or mulled wine!), settle in by the fire, and enjoy these festive favorites that will make your countdown to Christmas extra special.
