In 2023, the quest for the ‘Best Christmas Holiday Movies to Watch‘ is a delightful blend of new and old, offering something for everyone. This year, top picks include a variety of genres, ensuring that kids and adults alike find their holiday cheer. Animated classics remain a staple, bringing timeless stories to life. For those seeking the latest releases, Netflix, Hulu, Apple, Peacock, Amazon Prime Video and other OTT platforms like Disney+ are treasure troves of both festive new titles and beloved old favorites. These movies are not only suitable for family gatherings but also perfect for solo viewing, encapsulating the essence of Christmas in every scene.
The Best Christmas Holiday Movies to watch in December 2023 are:-
A Boy Called Christmas (2021)
- Genre: Fantasy/Adventure
- Movie Duration: 1h 46m
- IMDB Rating: 6.7
- Watch on Netflix
“The Boy Called Christmas” is a charming origin story of Father Christmas, centered around a young boy named Nikolas. Born on Christmas Day, Nikolas lives in a remote mountain cabin in Finland with his woodcutter father, Joel. The story unfolds as Nikolas embarks on an extraordinary adventure, accompanied by his loyal pet mouse and a reindeer. His quest leads him into the snowy northern wilderness in search of his father, who has embarked on his own journey to discover the fabled village of Elfhelm, the home of the elves.
The narrative is framed as a story told by Aunt Ruth to children, creating a delightful and engaging storytelling experience. This film presents a heartwarming tale of adventure, family, and the spirit of Christmas, with Nikolas’s journey symbolizing hope and determination in the face of challenges.
Also read:Family Friendly Movies on Netflix India
The Guardian of the Galaxy: Holiday Special (2022)
- Genre: Action/Adventure
- Movie Duration: 42m
- IMDB Rating: 6.9
- Watch on Disney+
In “The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special,” the Guardians set out to make Christmas special for Peter Quill (Star-Lord). The highlight is Mantis and Drax’s whimsical plan to kidnap actor Kevin Bacon as a gift for Quill. This short special blends festive joy, humor, and music, as their well-intentioned plot almost leads to chaos, capturing the essence of the Guardians’ misadventures in a holiday setting.
Also read: Best Hollywood Action Movies
Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)
- Genre: Musical/Fantasy
- Movie Duration: 2h 2m
- IMDB Rating: 6.5
- Watch on Netflix
“Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey” is a captivating musical fantasy set in the lively town of Cobbleton. The story revolves around Jeronicus Jangle, a once-joyful toymaker, whose life changes when his granddaughter arrives, infusing new hope and wonder. This film combines traditional and modern elements with its diverse cast, vibrant sets, and enchanting music, creating a magical Christmas tale about family, creativity, and rediscovering joy.
Also read:Kid Friendly Movies on Netflix
Frozen (2013)
- Genre: Animated/Musical/fantasy
- Movie Duration: 1h 42m
- IMDB Rating: 7.4
“Frozen” is an enchanting animated film about the bond between two sisters, Anna and Elsa, in the magical kingdom of Arendelle. Elsa, the elder sister with the power to create ice and snow, accidentally plunges the kingdom into an endless winter. Determined to reverse the spell, Anna joins forces with Kristoff, his reindeer Sven, and a whimsical snowman, Olaf. Their journey is filled with challenges and discoveries, ultimately exploring themes of love, courage, and the acceptance of one’s unique abilities.
A Christmas Story (1983)
- Genre: Comedy/Family
- Movie Duration: 1h 34m
- IMDB Rating: 7.9
Set in 1940s Hohman, Indiana, “A Christmas Story” follows Ralphie Parker, a nine-year-old boy dreaming of owning a Red Ryder air rifle for Christmas. Narrated by an older Ralphie, the film humorously depicts his attempts to persuade his parents to buy him the rifle, despite their concerns that he might injure himself. The story captures the essence of childhood anticipation and the festive spirit of Christmas through Ralphie’s wintry adventures and imaginative schemes.
Miracle on the 34th Street (1947)
- Genre: Comedy/Family
- Movie Duration: 1h 36m
- IMDB Rating: 7.9
“Miracle on 34th Street” is a 1947 holiday film set in New York City, focusing on a young girl’s encounter with a Macy’s store Santa Claus, Kris Kringle, who claims to be the real Santa. His convincing performance leads to a job at Macy’s and sparks a court case to prove his true identity, weaving a heartwarming tale that has become a timeless holiday classic.
Also read: Best Horror Movies on Amazon Prime in Hindi
The Christmas Chronicles (2018)
- Genre: Comedy/Adventure
- Movie Duration: 1h 43m
- IMDB Rating: 7.0
In “The Christmas Chronicles,” siblings Kate and Teddy Pierce embark on an extraordinary Christmas Eve adventure in Lowell, Massachusetts. Their initial plan to capture Santa Claus on film takes a dramatic twist when they accidentally cause Santa’s sleigh to crash. Amidst this, their family is coping with the loss of their firefighter father, adding depth to their story. Together with a resourceful and charismatic Santa, the brother-sister duo races against time in a whimsical, all-night quest to save Christmas. This heartwarming tale uniquely blends the themes of family bonding, festive excitement, and a magical journey, creating an enchanting holiday movie experience.
Get Santa (2014)
- Genre: Comedy/Family
- Movie Duration: 1h 42m
- IMDB Rating: 6.3
In the heartwarming British comedy “Get Santa,” Steve Anderson, a recently paroled former getaway driver, faces a unique challenge just days before Christmas. His plans to stay on the right side of the law are upended when Santa Claus himself crashes his sleigh and lands in jail. Steve, together with his son, grapples with the moral quandary of bending the rules to help Santa. The film humorously captures their efforts to orchestrate Santa’s escape, involving a colorful cast of characters and fellow prisoners. This delightful tale merges the spirit of Christmas with themes of redemption and family bonding, as Steve and his son embark on an adventurous quest to save Christmas.
The Princess Switch (2018)
- Genre: Comedy/Romance
- Movie Duration: 1h 41m
- IMDB Rating: 6.1
In “The Princess Switch,” a charming Christmas movie, a Chicago baker competing in a Belgravia baking contest encounters a duchess who is her doppelganger. Seizing the opportunity, they decide to switch lives for two days. Amidst this switch, each woman finds herself falling for the other’s partner. Starring Vanessa Hudgens in a dual role, this festive film combines romance, comedy, and holiday magic, echoing the classic switcheroo theme with a delightful twist.
Jingle all the Way (1996)
- Genre: Comedy/Family
- Movie Duration: 1h 19m
- IMDB Rating: 5.7
In the comedic film “Jingle All the Way,” Howard Langston, a work-obsessed mattress salesman, grapples with his neglect of family time. As Christmas approaches, he makes a promise to his son, Jamie, to get the much-desired Turbo Man action figure. Facing the holiday rush, Howard realizes the toy is sold out citywide. His quest becomes a wild race against time and other desperate parents, including a particularly competitive rival, to secure the toy and fulfill his son’s Christmas dream. This humorous tale highlights the extremes a father will go to for his child’s happiness during the festive season.
Angela’s Christmas (2017)
- Genre: Family/Adventure
- Movie Duration: 30m
- IMDB Rating: 7.0
Set in 1914 Limerick, Ireland, “Angela’s Christmas” is a touching animated short film about a young girl named Angela. During a Christmas mass, Angela becomes concerned for the Baby Jesus in the nativity scene, thinking he might be cold. The story unfolds as Angela, with childlike innocence and compassion, takes it upon herself to ensure Baby Jesus feels warm and loved. This film, inspired by Frank McCourt’s “Angela and the Baby Jesus,” highlights the themes of familial love and the pure-hearted actions that embody the spirit of Christmas.
Little Women (2019)
- Genre: Romance/Drama
- Movie Duration: 2h 15m
- IMDB Rating: 7.8
“Little Women,” based on Louisa May Alcott’s novel, is a film set in Massachusetts during the Civil War. It chronicles the journey of the March sisters – Jo, Meg, Amy, and Beth – as they grow up and explore their individual paths. Directed by Greta Gerwig, the movie captures the sisters’ experiences with life’s challenges, personal aspirations, and evolving relationships, while intertwining themes of family, friendship, and self-discovery.
B & B Merry (2022)
- Genre: Comedy/Family
- Movie Duration: 1h 25m
- IMDB Rating: 6.7
In the TV movie “B&B Merry,” Tracey Wise, a luxury travel blogger, is invited to review Silver Peak, a charming bed and breakfast run by Graham Cooper’s family. Set during Christmas, the story unfolds as Tracey helps the struggling B&B compete against a rival luxury hotel. Amidst the festive ambiance, she finds herself drawn to Graham, adding a touch of romance to her experience at the quaint establishment. The film combines elements of comedy, drama, and romance, set against a holiday backdrop.
Family Switch (2023)
- Genre: Comedy/Family
- Movie Duration: 1h 45m
- IMDB Rating: 5.8
“Family Switch” is a comedic film that takes a unique spin on the body-swap genre. Directed by McG, it stars Jennifer Garner, Ed Helms, Emma Myers, and Brady Noon. The story revolves around the Walker family, who find themselves in chaos when a cosmic event causes the parents to swap bodies with their teenage kids right before Christmas. The Walkers, facing their own important life events like a promotion, college interview, record deal, and soccer tryout, must navigate this unexpected switch. This Christmas comedy delves into family dynamics, highlighting the struggles of staying connected as children grow more independent.
Fall into Winter (2023)
- Genre: Comedy/Romance
- Movie Duration: 1h 25m
- IMDB Rating: 6.0
“Fall into Winter” follows Kerry, who confronts a surprising twist in her professional life when Brooks, her brother’s high school friend and her former nemesis, becomes a co-owner of her family’s candy shop. The story unfolds as they transition from adversaries to collaborators, gradually fostering a romantic connection. This comedy-romance weaves a tale of unexpected partnership and evolving feelings amidst the challenges of running a family business.
A Kindhearted Christmas (2021)
- Genre: Comedy/Romance
- Movie Duration: 1h 24m
- IMDB Rating: 6.1
In “A Kindhearted Christmas,” Jamie, a widow running a sightseeing business, faces a challenging holiday season. Inspired by her late husband’s tradition of giving, she anonymously donates to a local fundraiser, igniting a town-wide spirit of generosity. This act draws the attention of an inquisitive TV anchor, leading to a heartwarming tale of community, kindness, and the enduring impact of selfless acts during Christmas.
A Christmas Miracle for Daisy (2021)
- Genre: Romance
- Movie Duration: 1h 25m
- IMDB Rating: 5.9
“A Christmas Miracle for Daisy” is a charming holiday romance film. It centers around Cormac Sheenan, a media mogul who becomes a devoted single father to his orphaned two-year-old goddaughter, Daisy. Juggling his parenting duties with his successful career, Cormac’s life takes an unexpected turn when Whitney Adler, his ex-girlfriend, agrees to work for him. As the story unfolds, Daisy harbors a Christmas wish for Whitney and Cormac to reunite, envisioning Whitney as the mother she longs for. The film also follows Whitney, who runs an interior design firm and faces a surprise when she’s tasked with redesigning a landmark house, only to find her clients are Cormac and Daisy. This sweet narrative weaves together themes of love, family, and the magic of Christmas wishes.
I Believe in Santa (2022)
- Genre: Romance/Comedy
- Movie Duration: 1h 30m
- IMDB Rating: 4.5
“I Believe in Santa” is a Netflix romantic comedy about Lisa, a single mom and magazine writer who dislikes Christmas. She falls for Tom, a lawyer with an unusual obsession with Santa Claus. The plot thickens as Lisa’s young daughter grows attached to Tom, raising Lisa’s concerns about Tom’s belief in Santa. Set against a backdrop of holiday romance, the film explores the burgeoning relationship between Lisa and Tom, who have been dating for a little over five months. Their story is a blend of romantic drama and comedy, delving into the complexities of new relationships, especially when one partner holds unconventional beliefs.
The Knight Before Christmas (2019)
- Genre: Comedy/Romance
- Movie Duration: 1h 32m
- IMDB Rating: 5.6
“The Knight Before Christmas” is a holiday based romantic comedy movie. The story begins in 14th-century England, where Sir Cole Christopher Fredrick Lyons, a medieval knight, is magically transported to present-day America. He finds himself in the U.S. Midwest in 2019, where he meets a high school science teacher recovering from a broken heart. As Cole adjusts to the modern world, he and the teacher develop an unexpected romance. This charming film combines elements of adventure, comedy, and drama, showcasing the journey of a time-displaced knight and his quest for love in an unfamiliar era.
Bad Santa (2003)
- Genre: Comedy/Thriller
- Movie Duration: 1h 32m
- IMDB Rating: 7.1
“Bad Santa” is a dark comedy that follows Willie T. Stokes, a misanthropic, depressed con man who annually poses as a department store Santa Claus. Alongside his diminutive partner-in-crime, Marcus, who acts as an elf, they use these disguises to execute elaborate heists in shopping malls on Christmas Eve, with Marcus’ wife Lois as their getaway driver. The film takes a turn as Willie befriends a troubled kid, which complicates their criminal activities and leads to personal struggles for Willie. The story navigates through their planned Christmas Eve heist and the unexpected challenges Willie faces, blending crime and comedy in a unique holiday setting.
