‘Tis The Season: 11 Movies For Christmas Time

‘Tis the season to indulge in the warmth of festive storytelling and the timeless magic of the Christmas Season. Our curated list offers a delightful mix of heartwarming classics and unconventional gems, ensuring there’s something for everyone’s holiday viewing pleasure. From the animated masterpiece “The Iron Giant,” which beautifully weaves a Christmas scene into its tale of friendship, to the twistedly entertaining “Gremlins” that injects chaos and humor into the season, these films defy traditional holiday norms. Not bound by any particular order, join us on a cinematic journey that explores the spirit of Christmas through humor, heart, and a touch of the unexpected.

 

Please note that some of the product links in this article are affiliate links, and if you purchase through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

 

The Iron Giant

“The Iron Giant” (1999) – Directed by Brad Bird, “The Iron Giant” is an animated masterpiece that, while not strictly a Christmas movie, features a poignant and heartwarming scene set during the holiday season. The film follows the unlikely friendship between a young boy named Hogarth Hughes and a giant robot from outer space. Set against the Cold War era backdrop, the story explores themes of friendship, understanding, and the consequences of fear over reason. The Christmas sequence in the movie is a touching moment that captures the season’s spirit, emphasizing themes of compassion and enduring love. Though not a traditional Christmas film, “The Iron Giant” resonates with audiences for its emotional depth and timeless messages, making it a hidden gem for those seeking a holiday film with a unique and powerful narrative.

Where to Watch: Amazon $3.99+

 

 

The Family Man

“The Family Man” (2000) – Starring Nicolas Cage and Téa Leoni, this heartwarming film directed by Brett Ratner tells the story of a successful businessman who gets a glimpse of what his life might have been if he had made different choices. With a mix of humor and sentiment, “The Family Man” is a feel-good holiday movie with a meaningful message.

Where to Watch: Peacock / Amazon $2.99+

 

 

Gremlins

“Gremlins” (1984) – Joe Dante’s black comedy horror film turns the holiday season upside down when a young man receives a peculiar pet called a Mogwai. Chaos ensues when the creature spawns mischievous and malevolent gremlins. Blending humor, horror, and a dash of holiday spirit, “Gremlins” is a twistedly entertaining alternative to mainstream Christmas fare.

Where to Watch: Tubi / Amazon $3.79+

 

 

MST3K: Santa Claus Conquers the Martians

“MST3K: Santa Claus Conquers the Martians” (1991) – In this hilarious installment of Mystery Science Theater 3000, Joel and his robot companions provide uproarious commentary on the 1964 cult classic “Santa Claus Conquers the Martians.” As they skewer the low-budget sci-fi adventure featuring St. Nick’s interplanetary escapades, the MST3K crew delivers a comedic gift that adds a uniquely riff-tastic flair to the holiday movie lineup. The result is a side-splitting experience that transforms a cinematic oddity into a joyous celebration of holiday absurdity.

Where to Watch: Amazon $3.99+

 

 

It’s a Wonderful Life

“It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946) – Frank Capra’s masterful exploration of the human spirit unfolds as George Bailey, played by the incomparable James Stewart, contemplates the impact of his life on others during a Christmas Eve crisis. This timeless classic weaves together emotion, charm, and a profound message about the true meaning of wealth and community.

Where to Watch: Amazon (free with Prime)

 

 

A Christmas Carol

“A Christmas Carol” (1984) – George C. Scott’s commanding portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge elevates this adaptation of Dickens’ classic tale. The film, directed by Clive Donner, captures the essence of redemption as Scrooge undergoes a transformative journey guided by the spectral reminders of Christmas past, present, and future.

Where to Watch: Tubi / Amazon $3.99+

 

 

Home Alone

“Home Alone” (1990) – Director Chris Columbus orchestrates a symphony of slapstick brilliance in this family comedy that sees young Kevin McCallister, played by Macaulay Culkin, defending his home from inept burglars during Christmas. Culkin’s comedic timing and the film’s blend of humor and heart have solidified it as a perennial favorite.

Where to Watch: Disney+ / Amazon $3.99+

 

 

Miracle on 34th Street

“Miracle on 34th Street” (1947) – In this heartwarming tale directed by George Seaton, the charming Edmund Gwenn stars as Kris Kringle, a man claiming to be Santa Claus. As skepticism and legal challenges ensue, the film explores the magic of belief, leaving audiences with a reaffirmed sense of wonder and the spirit of Christmas.

Where to Watch: Hulu / Amazon Prime / Disney+

 

 

Scrooged

“Scrooged” (1988) – A modern retelling of “A Christmas Carol,” this comedy stars Bill Murray as a cynical television executive who is visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve. Murray’s comedic prowess and the film’s satirical take on the holiday season make it an entertaining and somewhat underrated Christmas classic.

Where to Watch: Paramount+ / Amazon Prime

 

 

A Garfield Christmas Special

“A Garfield Christmas Special” (1987) – In this animated TV special, Jim Davis’s lasagna-loving cat, Garfield, visits Jon’s family for the holidays. Filled with humor and warmth, the special captures the essence of Christmas traditions and family togetherness.

Where to Watch: Peacock

 

 

Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas

“Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas” (1977) – In this Jim Henson-produced TV special, Emmet Otter and his friends put together a jug band to compete in a talent show in hopes of winning the cash prize for Christmas gifts. It’s a heartwarming and musical holiday story.

Were to Watch: Peacock / Amazon Prime

 

 

Die Hard

“Die Hard” (1988) – While lesser lifeforms continue to debate its status as a Christmas movie, this action-packed film about a lone deliverer who saves Christmas features Bruce Willis as NYPD officer John McClane, who battles terrorists to save his wife and others. Packed with thrills, humor, and Yuletide references, “Die Hard” has earned its place as a non-traditional but perennial holiday favorite.

Where to Watch: Hulu / You don’t have your own copy? What’s the matter with you? Amazon $4.29+

 

 

There are dozens of wonderful Christmas films available. What are some of your favorites?