Top 30 Timeless Movies for the Season
‘Tis the season for heartwarming tales, magical moments, and the timeless joy of Christmas movies. Ranging from timeless classics to the latest heartwarming releases, this article is crafted to infuse your holiday season with warmth, laughter, and a touch of enchantment. Whether you’re a fan of cherished traditions or seeking the latest holiday gems, our list guarantees a joyful and magical cinematic journey for your festive celebrations.
1. The Polar Express (2004)
Released in 2004 and directed by Robert Zemeckis, “The Polar Express” is a holiday classic that combines cutting-edge animation with a heartwarming narrative. The story unfolds on Christmas Eve as a young boy, skeptical about the existence of Santa Claus, boards a mysterious train outside his house—the Polar Express. Join Hero Boy on a dazzling train ride filled with enchanting characters, festive tunes, and a message that captures the spirit of Christmas. An animated spectacle that continues to warm hearts and spark joy, ‘The Polar Express’ is a must-watch for families during the holiday season.
2. The Grinch (2000)
Meet the curmudgeonly Grinch in this animated holiday classic, ‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas’. Released on November 17, 2000, and brought to life by Jim Carrey, this Dr. Seuss adaptation follows the Grinch’s mischievous plot to steal Christmas from the festive town of Whoville. A whimsical blend of humor, heart, and a memorable green character, ‘The Grinch’ continues to charm audiences of all ages each holiday season.
3. The Christmas Setup (2020)
Experience heartwarming romance in ‘The Christmas Setup’, a feel-good holiday film released on December 12, 2020. Set against the festive backdrop of Christmastime, the movie follows the charming story of a New York lawyer who finds love and holiday magic when he returns home for Christmas. Filled with festive cheer and sweet moments, ‘The Christmas Setup’ is a delightful addition to the holiday movie lineup.
4. Better Watch Out (2016)
Released on October 6, 2017, ‘Better Watch Out’ is a chilling holiday thriller that turns the Christmas season into a suspenseful night of unexpected twists. Set against the backdrop of festive decorations, this psychological thriller takes a dark and gripping turn, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. A unique and unsettling addition to the holiday movie roster, ‘Better Watch Out’ delivers an unforgettable mix of holiday spirit and suspense.
5. Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)
Embark on a magical adventure with ‘Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey’, released on November 13, 2020. This heartwarming musical tale brings to life the enchanting world of toymaker Jeronicus Jangle and his granddaughter, Journey. Filled with whimsy, dazzling visuals, and a soulful soundtrack, ‘Jingle Jangle’ is a festive feast for the senses, capturing the spirit of Christmas in a truly unforgettable way.
6. Klaus (2019)
Discover the origins of Santa Claus in ‘Klaus’, released on November 8, 2019. This heartwarming animated film takes viewers on a delightful journey as a postman befriends a toymaker in a town that needs a dose of holiday joy. With its enchanting animation and uplifting story, ‘Klaus’ is a modern Christmas classic that brings warmth and wonder to the season.
7. Carol (2015)
Step into the 1950s world of forbidden love with ‘Carol’, released on November 20, 2015. Starring Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara, this mesmerizing romance follows the evolving connection between a photographer and an older woman amidst societal expectations. Set against a backdrop of holiday elegance, ‘Carol’ unfolds a poignant and visually stunning tale of love and self-discovery.
8. Tangerine (2015)
Released on January 23, 2015, ‘Tangerine’ is a vibrant and groundbreaking film that unfolds on Christmas Eve in Los Angeles. Shot entirely on iPhones, this indie gem follows two transgender sex workers as they navigate love, friendship, and the pursuit of their dreams against the colorful backdrop of the city. ‘Tangerine’ is a raw and captivating slice of life that challenges conventions and delivers a memorable cinematic experience.
9. A Boy Called Christmas (2021)
Embark on a magical quest with ‘A Boy Called Christmas’, released on November 24, 2021. This heartwarming tale follows a young boy named Nikolas as he sets out on an extraordinary adventure to find his father. Filled with whimsy and wonder, this enchanting film captures the spirit of Christmas in a delightful and unforgettable way.
10. Happiest Season (2020)
Join the festive fun with ‘Happiest Season’, released on November 25, 2020. This heartwarming holiday rom-com follows Abby as she navigates a Christmas family gathering with her girlfriend Harper, filled with humorous twists and touching moments. A delightful addition to the holiday film lineup, ‘Happiest Season’ is a love-filled journey that captures the spirit of the season.
11. Spirited (2022)
Get ready for holiday enchantment with ‘Spirited’, released on November 25, 2022. This animated film, starring Ryan Reynolds, takes a whimsical twist on a Christmas classic as Eve, played by Will Ferrell, encounters the Ghost of Christmas Past. The film promises a merry blend of laughter and heartwarming moments for festive family viewing.
12. I Believe in Santa (2022)
This film delivered festive joy on December 2, 2022. In this heartwarming holiday film, a young girl’s belief in Santa becomes a magical journey to save Christmas, weaving a tale of wonder, belief, and the true spirit of the season. Embrace the enchantment of the holidays with this delightful family film.
13. Arthur Christmas
Unwrap the magic of ‘Arthur Christmas’, released on November 11, 2011. In this animated adventure, Santa’s clumsy but lovable son, Arthur, sets out on a high-tech mission to deliver a forgotten present. Filled with humor and heart, ‘Arthur Christmas’ is a modern holiday classic that captures the joy of giving and the spirit of Christmas in a whole new way
14. Tokyo Godfathers (2003)
Experience the holiday magic of ‘Tokyo Godfathers’, released on August 30, 2003. This animated gem follows three homeless friends who discover an abandoned baby on Christmas Eve, embarking on an unexpected journey of redemption and hope through the bustling streets of Tokyo. A touching and unconventional Christmas tale, this film offers a unique blend of heartwarming moments and urban adventure.
15. Elf (2003)
Spread holiday cheer with ‘Elf’, released on November 7, 2003. This festive comedy stars Will Ferrell as Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole who embarks on a journey to New York City to find his real father. Packed with laughter and heartwarming moments, this film has become a modern Christmas classic that brings joy to audiences of all ages each holiday season.
16. The Man Who Invented Christmas (2017)
Uncover the tale behind the tale with ‘The Man Who Invented Christmas’, released on November 22, 2017. This heartwarming film explores the journey of Charles Dickens, played by Dan Stevens, as he creates the timeless classic ‘A Christmas Carol.’ Filled with inspiration and festive spirit, it’s a delightful peek into the origins of a beloved holiday story.
17. Christmas Bloody Christmas (2012)
Experience a chilling twist on the holidays with ‘Christmas Bloody Christmas’, released on October 20, 2012. In this suspenseful horror film, a family reunion takes a dark turn as secrets unravel, making for a suspenseful and blood-curdling Christmas Eve. Brace yourself for a holiday thriller that adds a sinister edge to the season.
18. Alien Xmas (2020)
Unleash extraterrestrial holiday havoc with ‘Alien Xmas’, released on November 20, 2020. In this festive stop-motion animation, a small alien learns the true meaning of Christmas as he attempts to steal Earth’s gravity. Packed with humor and heart, this film is a quirky and delightful addition to the holiday movie lineup.
19. Santa Camp (2022)
Immerse yourself in the spirit of Santa with ‘Santa Camp’, spreading holiday joy on December 1, 2022. This heartwarming film follows a diverse group of kids at a special camp where they learn the secrets of being Santa’s helpers. Filled with festive fun and lessons in kindness, this film is a merry adventure that captures the magic of Christmas for all ages.
20. A Christmas Horror Story (2015)
Dare to be spooked this holiday season with ‘A Christmas Horror Story’, released on October 2, 2015. This anthology horror film weaves together chilling tales set during Christmas, featuring sinister twists on festive traditions. Brace yourself for a frightful yuletide experience that adds a thrilling edge to the season of joy.
21. Home Alone (1990)
Experience the iconic holiday hilarity of ‘Home Alone, released on November 16, 1990. In this timeless classic, young Kevin McCallister, played by Macaulay Culkin, outwits bumbling burglars when he’s accidentally left behind for Christmas. Filled with laughs, heart, and clever booby traps, ‘Home Alone’ remains a beloved festive favorite for audiences of all ages.
22. Four Christmases (2008)
Embrace the chaos of family festivities with ‘Four Christmases’, released on November 26, 2008. Starring Vince Vaughn and Reese Witherspoon, this comedy follows a couple as they navigate the challenges of visiting four different sets of divorced parents on Christmas Day. Packed with laughs and holiday spirit, this film offers a comedic and relatable take on the joys (and chaos) of the season.
23. Deck the Halls (2006)
Light up your holiday season with ‘Deck the Halls’, released on November 22, 2006. Starring Danny DeVito and Matthew Broderick, this festive comedy unfolds as two neighbors engage in a friendly but fierce competition to create the most spectacular Christmas display on their street. Filled with laughs and festive spirit, ‘Deck the Halls’ is a whimsical journey through the joys (and challenges) of holiday decorations.
24. Angela's Christmas (2017)
Wrap your heart in warmth with ‘Angela’s Christmas’, released on December 8, 2017. In this heartwarming animated tale, young Angela’s kind-hearted mission on Christmas Eve melts hearts and brings joy to all. A delightful story about the true spirit of giving, ‘Angela’s Christmas’ is a festive treat for the whole family.
25. Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang (2005)
Add a dash of danger to your holidays with ‘Kiss Kiss Bang Bang’, released on October 18, 2005. In this darkly comedic Christmas caper, Robert Downey Jr. and Val Kilmer navigate a web of murder and mystery during the festive season. A noir-inspired thrill ride with a holiday twist, ‘Kiss Kiss Bang Bang’ is an unconventional and entertaining choice for your seasonal watchlist.
26. The Holiday Calendar (2018)
Count down to Christmas magic with ‘The Holiday Calendar’, released on November 2, 2018. In this enchanting holiday romance, a magical advent calendar seems to predict the future, guiding a photographer on a journey of love and self-discovery. Filled with festive charm, ‘The Holiday Calendar’ is a heartwarming addition to your holiday movie lineup.
27. A Holiday Spectacular (2022)
Experience the magic of the season with ‘A Holiday Spectacular,’ released on December 10, 2022. In this festive film, a small town comes together to create a dazzling holiday extravaganza, filled with joy, community spirit, and heartwarming moments. Get ready for a spectacle that captures the true essence of Christmas.
28. Holidate (2020)
Spice up the holidays with ‘Holidate’, released on October 28, 2020. In this rom-com, Emma Roberts and Luke Bracey navigate the ups and downs of a festive pact to be each other’s holiday plus-ones. Filled with laughs and unexpected romance, this film is a charming and relatable addition to your Christmas movie lineup.
29. Love Actually (2003)
Indulge in the holiday romance of ‘Love Actually’, released on November 7, 2003. This ensemble romantic comedy weaves together multiple love stories, capturing the heartwarming and sometimes bittersweet moments of love during the festive season. A timeless classic, this film is a must-watch for those seeking a dose of love and laughter during the holidays.
30. Krampus (2015)
Dive into the darker side of Christmas with ‘Krampus’, released on December 4, 2015. In this horror-comedy, a family’s holiday gathering takes a terrifying turn when they accidentally summon the ancient spirit of Krampus. Brace yourself for a twisted and festive tale that blends holiday cheer with spine-chilling thrills.
