Is there a beloved holiday tradition that you can’t live without? For many, the answer is a blanket, some hot cocoa, and Christmas movies. More than a seasonal pastime, Christmas movies are the pulse of the holiday season, full of frivolous antics, romantic sentiment, and meaningful lessons on kindness. They have absolutely amplified the Christmas spirit with a whole month of social propriety around goodness.
Cinema has become one of the strongest sources of the true message of giving, through stories of reconciliation, selfless actions, and victory over despair and the enemy. These stories remind us that the best gifts to be found at Christmas are not under the tree, but found in time spent with loved ones and in generosity toward strangers. Are you ready to select your perfect dose of holiday joy at the cinema this season? Let’s dive into the top Christmas Movies to watch this Christmas.
15 Inclusive & Versatile Top Christmas Movies to Watch in 2025:
Grab your cocoa and your coziest blanket, because this is the definitive list of the top 15 Christmas movies to watch. They are a perfect mix of timeless classics, hilarious comedies, and heartfelt modern favorites to fill your holiday season with cinematic cheer!
1. Home Alone (1990)
- Director: Chris Columbus
- Cast: Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern, Catherine O’Hara
- Runtime: 1h 43m
A mischievous boy left behind during Christmas turns his house into a hilarious battlefield against two burglars. This timeless classic delivers laughter, heart, and unforgettable festive chaos.
2. Klaus (2019)
- Director: Sergio Pablos
- Cast: Jason Schwartzman, J.K. Simmons, Rashida Jones, Norm Macdonald
- Runtime: 1h 37m
A beautifully animated origin story of Santa Claus, filled with emotional depth and stunning visuals. It remains one of the top Christmas movies to watch for families who love holiday magic.
3. Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)
- Director: David E. Talbert
- Cast: Forest Whitaker, Keegan-Michael Key, Madalen Mills, Anika Noni Rose
- Runtime: 2h 2m
A visually rich, inclusive musical celebrating invention, imagination, and second chances. Its diverse cast and uplifting message make it perfect for holiday storytelling.
4. A Boy Called Christmas (2021)
- Director: Gil Kenan
- Cast: Henry Lawfull, Maggie Smith, Kristen Wiig, Sally Hawkins, Jim Broadbent
- Runtime: 1h 46m
Follow young Nikolas on an enchanting journey across icy lands in search of hope and magic. This adventure-filled film brings a fresh and heartwarming take on the Santa legend.
5. The Holiday (2006)
- Director: Nancy Meyers
- Cast: Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, Jack Black
- Runtime: 2h 18m
Two women swap homes for Christmas and unexpectedly find love and healing along the way. Its cozy vibe and cross-cultural charm make it a global seasonal favorite.
6. Happiest Season (2020)
- Director: Clea DuVall
- Cast: Kristen Stewart, Mackenzie Davis, Aubrey Plaza, Daniel Levy
- Runtime: 1h 42m
A heartfelt LGBTQ+ holiday romance exploring love, family acceptance, and vulnerability. Its emotional honesty places it among the top Christmas movies to watch for modern audiences.
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7. Let It Snow (2019)
- Director: Luke Snellin
- Cast: Isabela Merced, Kiernan Shipka, Odeya Rush, Mitchell Hope
- Runtime: 1h 33m
A snowstorm brings together a group of teens, sparking romance, friendship, and unforgettable memories. This feel-good ensemble story captures the warmth of growing up during the holidays.
8. The Christmas Chronicles (2018)
- Director: Clay Kaytis
- Cast: Kurt Russell, Judah Lewis, Darby Camp, Kimberly Williams-Paisley
- Runtime: 1h 44m
Two siblings team up with Santa to save Christmas in this fun, magical adventure. With humor and heart, it remains a family favorite.
9. Last Christmas (2019)
- Director: Paul Feig
- Cast: Emilia Clarke, Henry Golding, Emma Thompson, Michelle Yeoh
- Runtime: 1h 43m
A young woman struggling with life finds an unexpected connection and hope through a mysterious stranger. Its emotional depth and touching twist make it one of the top Christmas movies to watch for romance lovers.
10. The Grinch (2018)
- Directors: Scott Mosier & Yarrow Cheney
- Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch, Cameron Seely, Rashida Jones
- Runtime: 1h 26m
A vibrant animated retelling of the classic Dr. Seuss tale, following the Grinch as he learns the true meaning of Christmas. Perfect for audiences of all ages.
11. Spirited (2022)
- Director: Sean Anders
- Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Will Ferrell, Octavia Spencer, Sunita Mani
- Runtime: 2h 7m
A musical-comedy twist on A Christmas Carol, blending humor, catchy songs, and heartfelt moments. Will Ferrell and Ryan Reynolds bring festive energy to this modern spin.
12. The Polar Express (2004)
- Director: Robert Zemeckis
- Cast: Tom Hanks (multiple roles), Josh Hutcherson, Nona Gaye
- Runtime: 1h 40m
A magical train ride to the North Pole teaches children about belief, bravery, and the spirit of Christmas. A visually immersive and emotionally uplifting experience for all.
13. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
- Director: Henry Selick
- Cast: Chris Sarandon, Catherine O’Hara, Danny Elfman, William Hickey
- Runtime: 1h 16m
A stop-motion masterpiece that blends Halloween magic with Christmas wonder, this film follows Jack Skellington as he discovers a new world beyond his own. Its enchanting visuals, music, and timeless storytelling easily place it among the top Christmas movies to watch for fans of fantasy and holiday classics.
14. Genie (2023)
- Director: Sam Boyd
- Cast: Melissa McCarthy, Paapa Essiedu, Denée Benton, Marc Maron
- Runtime: 1h 33m
A stressed-out father accidentally summons a wish-granting genie who helps him rebuild his life during Christmas. This fun and emotional film brings gentle fantasy to the season.
15. Merry Little Batman (2023)
- Director: Mike Roth
- Cast: Luke Wilson, Yonas Kibreab, James Cromwell, David Hornsby
- Runtime: 1h 32m
An animated adventure where young Damian Wayne must save Gotham on Christmas Eve. Its playful superhero twist makes it one of the lesser-known top Christmas movies to watch in 2025.
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Conclusion
As the credits roll on this incredible list, the true gift isn’t just the movie itself, but the cherished time spent sharing it with others. Whether you revisited the hilarious booby traps of Home Alone, explored the moving origins in Klaus, or cheered for the festive heroism in Merry Little Batman, each film reinforces the simple, yet profound, message of Christmas: love, kindness, and connection. So, queue up your favorites, settle in with your loved ones, and let the magic continue. This collection of top Christmas movies to watch is your ultimate invitation to keep the heart of the holiday season bright, one unforgettable scene at a time!
FAQ:
1. What makes a movie one of the top Christmas movies to watch?
A Christmas movie stands out when it delivers strong storytelling, emotional warmth, memorable characters, and a festive atmosphere that resonates across generations. Critical reviews, cultural impact, and audience ratings also help determine its long-term holiday appeal.
2. Are classic Christmas movies still worth watching today?
Absolutely. Classics like It’s a Wonderful Life and Home Alone remain beloved because their themes—family, kindness, nostalgia—never age. They often outperform newer films in emotional impact, cultural relevance, and rewatch value.
3. What Christmas movies can I stream right now on popular platforms?
Platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Hulu feature top picks, including Klaus, Home Alone, The Santa Clause, Noelle, Holidate, and The Christmas Chronicles. Availability may vary based on region.
