10 Best Holiday Movies & Where to Watch Them

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The holidays are a wonderful time of year, and what’s better than cozying up to watch classic Christmas movies? As the snow falls and you sip hot chocolate, it’s easy to get lost in the magic of films like Elf – holiday movies are a hugely popular genre for a reason!

There’s a huge number of holiday movies, ranging from heartwarming stories to funny journeys of self-discovery. While you won’t find them all in one place, many of the most popular and beloved holiday films are readily available on major streaming platforms.

Elf (2003) is a Modern Holiday Classic Fans Adore

The movie Elf is a beloved holiday classic, especially for millennials, and it remains funny even today. It tells the story of Buddy the Elf (played by Will Ferrell) who goes to New York City to meet his human father. Because Buddy was raised as an elf at the North Pole, his adventures in New York are full of hilarious chaos.

Elf is a genuinely funny movie, and the talented cast delivers fantastic performances. Buddy the Elf’s story of finding himself feels surprisingly relatable, even with the fantastical setting. The film is also full of memorable lines, like the famous, “You sit on a throne of lies!” You can currently watch Elf on Hulu and HBO Max.

Home Alone (1990) Delivers Big Laughs and Bigger Heart

Home Alone is the original and most popular film in the Home Alone series. This funny movie, directed by Chris Columbus, tells the story of Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin), a young boy who’s mistakenly left at home when his large family goes on vacation to France. Clever and quick-thinking, Kevin must protect his house from a couple of burglars who try to break in.

Generally considered a classic, Home Alone perfectly captures the feeling of the holidays. It’s a funny movie filled with slapstick comedy, mostly focused on the amusing adventures of Kevin. But once his family realizes he’s been left behind, the story also becomes genuinely heartwarming and emphasizes the importance of family. The acting is excellent across the board, with Macaulay Culkin shining as Kevin. You can currently watch Home Alone on Disney+ and Hulu.

It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) Continues to Stand the Test of Time

It’s a Wonderful Life is a truly memorable film that stays with you long after you’ve seen it. The movie, directed by Frank Capra, tells the story of George Bailey (played by James Stewart), a man who feels hopeless despite being well-respected in his community. On Christmas Eve, when he tries to end his life, his guardian angel, Clarence (Henry Travers), intervenes and shows George how much his life means to the people he loves.

It’s a Wonderful Life is a classic film that continues to resonate with audiences today. Many people can connect with George’s struggles, no matter their age, which makes his personal growth especially moving. The film features well-developed characters, effectively uses fantasy, and ultimately delivers a powerfully heartwarming message. You can currently stream It’s a Wonderful Life on Hulu and Amazon Prime Video.

The Polar Express (2004) is a Unique But Unforgettable Christmas Movie

The Polar Express is a holiday film many late millennials remember watching in school. Even though critics had mixed reactions, it’s still considered a classic more than 20 years later. The animated movie tells the story of a young boy, known as Hero Boy, who takes a magical train ride to the North Pole after questioning whether Santa Claus is real. Tom Hanks famously plays several roles in the film, including the adult version of Hero Boy, the train conductor, and Santa Claus himself.

The Polar Express stands out as a truly special film, with its distinctive animation and a story that leaves room for interpretation. It’s a heartwarming movie with a magical atmosphere and memorable characters who work well together. Released 21 years ago, it wouldn’t be what it is without Tom Hanks, and it definitely evokes a strong sense of nostalgia. You can currently watch The Polar Express on Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime Video.

Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) is Still a Quotable Classic

Many adaptations of Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas exist, but the live-action film starring Jim Carrey is often considered the most enjoyable. Carrey plays the Grinch, a grumpy resident of Whoville who truly hates Christmas. Despite his attempts to ruin the holiday for everyone else, the Grinch unexpectedly becomes friends with a kind-hearted girl named Cindy Lou Who, played by Taylor Momsen.

Jim Carrey’s performance is the heart and soul of the 2000 live-action How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and he truly shines despite the challenging makeup and costume work. The movie is funny, visually appealing, and keeps a great pace. While the original 1966 animated version remains a beloved classic, this remake has become iconic in its own right. You can currently stream How the Grinch Stole Christmas on Hulu, Peacock, and Amazon Prime Video.

The Santa Clause (1994) is a Classic Disney Franchise Starter

The Santa Clause is the first film in a series of the same name. It tells the story of Scott Calvin (Tim Allen), a divorced dad and businessman, who accidentally causes Santa’s death on Christmas Eve. He then unexpectedly finds himself taking on the role of the new Santa Claus, all while trying to be a good father to his son, Charlie (Eric Lloyd).

I absolutely love The Santa Clause – it’s a holiday must-watch for me! What makes it so great is how it blends humor with genuinely touching moments. Watching Scott Calvin transform into Santa is hilarious, but also really sweet as he rediscovers his inner child. The movie just flows at a perfect pace, and it’s totally soaked in that awesome ‘90s vibe, which brings back so many memories. If you’re looking for a bit of nostalgia, you can stream The Santa Clause on Disney+ or Hulu.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964) is a Holiday Tradition

While technically a TV special, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is a classic holiday favorite that’s almost an hour long. This animated musical tells the story of Rudolph, a young reindeer who is teased because of his glowing red nose. After ending up on the Island of Misfit Toys, Rudolph journeys home and learns to accept himself along the way.

As a critic, I have to say that Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer really stands out as the definitive Rudolph film. It just feels like the holidays – cozy, warm, like wrapping yourself in a blanket with a mug of hot cocoa. The animation has a charming, one-of-a-kind style, and honestly, the songs are fantastic. Plus, who can resist Rudolph’s adorable face? If you’re looking for a little Christmas cheer, you can find it streaming on Amazon Prime Video.

Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) is Dark But Heartfelt During the Holidays

Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas playfully combines Halloween and Christmas. Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King (voiced by Chris Sarandon), discovers Christmas Town and excitedly tries to bring the Christmas spirit back to his home, Halloween Town. However, his efforts are complicated by the mischievous antics of Oogie Boogie (voiced by Ken Page), and Jack must ultimately save the day.

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The Nightmare Before Christmas remains one of Disney’s most beloved and successful films. It stands out with its original story, unforgettable characters, and incredibly catchy songs. The animation still looks fantastic, and despite a slightly spooky style, it’s enjoyable for all ages. You can currently watch Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas on Disney+.

Miracle on 34th Street (1947) Has One of the Best Movie Santas Ever

George Seaton’s Miracle on 34th Street is a heartwarming film that takes place during the holiday season between Thanksgiving and Christmas. The story centers around Edmund Gwenn, who plays a man claiming to be the genuine Santa Claus after getting a job at Macy’s. As he’s challenged to prove his identity in court, he forms a special connection with six-year-old Susan Walker (Natalie Wood) and her mother, Doris (Maureen O’Hara).

Miracle on 34th Street is a beloved holiday classic that still resonates with audiences today. The film features compelling characters, explores the power of belief, and boasts a charming musical score. Though the 1994 remake is enjoyable, many consider the original 1947 version to be the better film. You can currently watch Miracle on 34th Street on streaming services like Disney+, Hulu, Peacock, Amazon Prime Video, and Paramount+.

Die Hard (1988) is a Hotly Debated and Action-Packed Holiday Movie

I absolutely love Die Hard! It’s about John McClane, played by Bruce Willis, who’s just a regular NYPD cop. He happens to be in the wrong place at the wrong time when this criminal, Hans Gruber, and his crew take over Nakatomi Plaza. It’s amazing watching John use his wits and a little bit of luck to take them down and save the day. He really fights to get the building back under control!

As a film buff, I truly love Die Hard – it’s a fantastic movie that I think doesn’t get enough credit as a holiday watch! The action is relentless, director John McTiernan really knows what he’s doing, and the contrast between John McClane and Hans Gruber is brilliantly written. Bruce Willis is absolutely captivating as John, and the fact that the whole story unfolds during Christmas actually adds a lot to the themes of dedication, courage, and just figuring things out on your own. If you’re looking for it, you can stream Die Hard on Disney+, Hulu, Peacock, or Amazon Prime Video.

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2025-12-23 21:39