Classic Christmas Films: 20 Beautiful Movies for a Cosy Evening

Written by: Helene Ausserwöger, 12.12.2024

Is there anything better than snuggling up on the couch or in bed during the cold holiday season, enjoying gingerbread, punch or hot chocolate, and watching Christmas movies? Year after year, these films give us a sense of warmth, familiarity and lots of cheesiness. They awaken anticipation, revive childhood memories and make the Christmas spirit blossom within us.

But which films are an absolute must-watch and which deserve their place as timeless classics? We have compiled a list of the 20 best Christmas films for you – perfect for cosy evenings and a delightful pre-Christmas season. So put on your comfiest socks, grab a blanket and get ready for the festive film magic!

Table of Contents:

Preparation is Everything: How to Create the Perfect Christmas Film Night

The smell of cinnamon and freshly baked cookies is a must-have for your Christmas film night. With a few simple ideas you can create the perfect festive atmosphere for your holiday movie marathon.

Combine your binge-watch with a festive baking session with friends. Cinnamon-stars, vanilla crescents or gingerbread are perfect for the season. They don’t only fill the air with a delightful scent but also spread festive cheer – check out these quick and easy Christmas cookie recipes!

Of course you cannot miss out on the cosy drinks: Classic mulled wine, non-alcoholic punch or cinnamon tea with punch syrup are great choices. A hot chocolate with a pinch of cinnamon or decorated with marshmallows and whipped cream is also perfect for the occasion.

Now the only thing still missing are some fairy lights that will turn your living room into a small Winter Wonderland. Cosy blankets and soft cushions will make everyone be comfortable, and a few scented candles with festive aromas like vanilla, apple or cinnamon will complete the perfect Christmas vibe.

The Classic Christmas Films

Timeless and well-known Christmas films have a unique way of bringing together generations, spreading festive cheer and reminding us what Christmas is really about: family, love, and solidarity. Whether nostalgic, funny, or heartwarming – these movies have earned their status as classics and are an absolute must for your Christmas film night. 

Home Alone

Kevin is a cheeky eight-year-old who is accidentally left home alone by his family while they go on a Christmas holiday. What follows is a chaotic adventure where Kevin has to defend his home from two clumsy robbers. If you cannot get enough after the first movie, you can dive straight into the second: “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York”

Chaotic Christmas fun for the whole family! ©IMDb - available in stores

Miracle on 34th Street

A movie that perfectly captures the magic of Christmas: When a Mall Santa Clause claims to be the real Santa, he is taken to court by his competitors. But with his kindhearted nature he changes the lives of many and restores their belief in miracles.

The Santa Clause

When the divorced father Scott Calvin accidentally replaces Santa’s role, he suddenly finds himself dealing with reindeers, elves, and a lot of responsibility. A funny yet heartwarming story for the whole family. 

Initially dark, but ultimately a story with heart! ©IMDb - available in stores

A Christmas Carol

This classic is one of the most well-known Christmas stories of all time. The greedy Ebeneezer Scrooge is visited by three spirits of Christmas who take him on a journey through his past, present and future, reminding him of the value of compassion and kindness. Its message remains timeless. 

STUWO Tip: A Christmas Carol also comes as a humorous Muppet version – a must-see for everyone who finds the original too dark!

Love Actually

This movie is a collection of stories that are all intertwined with each other and have one thing in common: love. Whether its painful breakups, unexpected romances or the magic of first love – Love Actually shows all the different facets of love during the Christmas season and will definitely make hearts beat faster. With its unbeatable cast, including actors like Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson and Keira Knightley, this Christmas film is an absolute classic – full of romance and enchanting cheesyness.

“If you look for it, I’ve got a sneaky feeling you’ll find that love actually is all around.” 

Love is in the Air: Romantic Christmas Films to Dream About

In-between sparkling lights, snowy landscapes and warm candlelight, romantic stories spread a special kind of magic. These films tell tales about love, longing and magical encounters – perfect for everyone who likes it cheesy.

The Holiday

Two women from completely different backgrounds swap places during the holiday season, discovering not only relaxation but also love along the way. This heartwarming story full of humour, feelings and romantic moments is a must-watch for everyone who believes in destiny. 

Last Christmas

This romantic comedy is centered around the chaotic life of Kate, who meets a mysterious stranger that reminds her of the important things in life. But this stranger has a secret… The setting of a Christmas-themed London, combined with its message of healing and hope, make this film a heartwarming highlight of the Christmas season. 

Kitsch is simply part of the Christmas season! ©IMDb - available in stores

Christmas Films for the Whole Family

Christmas is the perfect time to get together with the whole family and dive into festive stories in front of the TV. Whether its stories full of humour, heartwarming messages or adventurous journeys – these films and series bring joy to both young and old.

A film that shows that even the coldest heart can melt with the magic of Christmas! ©IMDb - available in stores

The Grinch

The iconic story of the grumpy Grinch, who hates Christmas and plans to steal it from the residents of Whoville is also a classic that will never get old. But when he meets little Cindy Lou Who, the Grinch learns that Christmas is not that bad after all – a tale full of humour and heart.

The Secret World of Santa Claus

This animated series has developed into a family-favorite over the years. In each episode Santa Clause and his elves have to overcome new challenges to save Christmas. Funny, gripping and perfect for a binge-watch during the advent season.

Merry Christmas Mr. Bean

In this charming episode of the iconic series, Mr. Bean creates chaos during the Christmas season. With his unmatched clumsiness, laughter is guaranteed as he attempts to celebrate Christmas in his own unique way.

Arthur Christmas

In this humorous and gripping animated story, Arthur, the helpless son of Santa, is in charge of a special mission: A forgotten present must be delivered on time. Filled with wit and an important message about solidarity this movie is a highlight for the whole family.

A turbulent and heartwarming Christmas mission for the whole family! ©IMDb - available in stores

The Polar Express

This animated classic tells the magical journey of a boy who travels to the North Pole on Christmas Eve aboard the Polar Express. Along the way, he meets many extraordinary characters and learns not only the power of belief but also the importance of friendship and courage.

Christmas Films to Stream

Luckily, you no longer have to go to the video store to get your Christmas movies. Thanks to the vast selection on streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime, you can easily bring festive entertainment into your living room.

Christmas Films on Netflix

Among the classics, Netflix is all about the cheesiness – and the Christmas movie selection is expanded each year with new romantic stories.

  • The Princess Switch: A baker and a princess-to-be, who look strikingly similar, swap roles during Christmas season – romantic chaos included!
  • A Castle for Christmas: An author retreats to a Scottish castle and encounters a grumpy duke – who knows what might unfold from there…?
  • Holidate: Two strangers pretend to be the perfect couple during the holidays to escape the family stress – but their hearts might be longing for something more…
  • Falling for Christmas: A spoiled hotel heiress loses her memory after an accident and rediscovers not only her identity but also the true meaning of Christmas in a romantic mountain lodge.

Perfect for a Series Marathon:

  • Home for Christmas: Johanne is tired of always being the only single one at family Christmas celebrations. On a whim, she decides to find someone to bring home within 24 days. Will she succeed?
  • A Storm for Christmas: A group of strangers gets stranded at an airport due to a snowstorm. As the clock relentlessly ticks toward Christmas, personal stories unfold, and intriguing connections emerge.

Christmas Films on Amazon Prime

Amazon Prime also offers a wide selection of Christmas movies for the whole family:

  • Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: While not directly a Christmas movie, this classic perfectly fits the festive season. Dive into a magical adventure in Willy Wonka’s candy world!
  • Totally Crazy Christmas: Jessie and Kara are supposed to spend Christmas with their grandparents – but here’s the twist: neither of them knows their grandparents! They decide to swap roles during the holidays, leading to plenty of chaotic and funny moments.

STUWO Tip: If a movie isn’t included in Prime or you don’t have a Prime subscription, you can usually rent or buy it online for a reasonable price.

So, what are you waiting for? Slip into your cozy socks, grab some homemade cookies, and cuddle up on the couch with friends and family – the best Christmas movies are ready for you!

We wish you a wonderful Christmas season!

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