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Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and good food. But sometimes you just need a break from the hustle and bustle of the holiday, and what better way to do that than curling up with a good movie? Whether you’re looking to laugh, cry, or just get into the holiday spirit, these are the best Thanksgiving and fall movies to watch this year.
From heartwarming classics to mostly forgotten gems, this article will help you find the perfect movie for the holidays. So get ready to plan some cozy movie nights this holiday season with these Thanksgiving movies!
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
Searching for the best Thanksgiving movies? Look no further than A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, where the beloved Peanuts gang learns the true meaning of gratitude in their own heartwarming and endearing way.
In this classic animated film, Charlie Brown finds himself tasked with hosting a Thanksgiving dinner for his friends. However, in true Charlie Brown fashion, things don’t go exactly as planned. With Snoopy serving as his loyal companion and the rest of the gang by his side, Charlie Brown navigates through hilarious mishaps and misunderstandings that will leave you chuckling.
Planes, Trains & Automobiles (1987)
Planes, Trains & Automobiles is a classic Thanksgiving movie that perfectly captures the chaotic yet heartwarming essence of coming home for the holidays. From the moment the film kicks off, you’re thrust into a whirlwind of mishaps and misadventures that will have you laughing until your sides ache. Steve Martin and John Candy deliver outstanding performances as two mismatched travelers who are reluctantly forced to team up to make it home in time for Thanksgiving dinner.
Addams Family Values (1993)
With its eccentric and macabre twist on the holiday, Addams Family Values takes Thanksgiving to a new level of dark humor. This cult classic follows the eccentric Addams family navigating through peculiar situations, including a Thanksgiving pageant at their children’s camp. As you settle in to watch this hilariously twisted take on the holiday, get ready for a rollercoaster of laughs and surprises.
Son-in-Law (1993)
Another Thanksgiving movie that combines humor with heart is Son-in-Law. This 1993 comedy follows Rebecca, a college student who brings her unconventional and free-spirited friend Crawl home for Thanksgiving. As you can imagine, chaos ensues when the traditional and conservative family clashes with his wild and unpredictable personality.
You’ve Got Mail (1998)
In this heartwarming romantic comedy, Thanksgiving becomes the backdrop for a delightful tale of unexpected love and personal growth. Set in New York City during the holiday season, this film follows the lives of Kathleen Kelly (Meg Ryan) and Joe Fox (Tom Hanks), as their paths intertwine in the most enchanting way.
With its witty dialogue, endearing characters, and a story that tugs at the heartstrings, You’ve Got Mail should definitely be added to your list of must-watch Thanksgiving movies. So, grab your favorite cozy blanket, curl up on the couch, and get ready for a romantic journey.
Free Birds (2013)
Free Birds introduces us to Reggie, a clever and witty turkey who finds himself chosen as the annual presidential turkey pardon. However, instead of accepting his fate as the guest of honor on the Thanksgiving dinner table, Reggie is determined to make a difference. With the help of Jake, a fearless and slightly eccentric turkey, the duo embarks on a time-traveling adventure to the year 1621.
The Blind Side (2009)
From one heartwarming tale of compassion and triumph to another, The Blind Side takes us on an emotional rollercoaster that perfectly complements the Thanksgiving season. Inspired by a true story, this captivating film explores the unbreakable bonds of family, the power of belief, and the incredible impact one person can have on another.
Krisha (2015)
While Thanksgiving is a time for celebration and togetherness, it can also bring its fair share of chaos and family dynamics. In the movie Krisha, these elements are taken to a whole new level, making it an excellent addition to your list of the best Thanksgiving movies.
Krisha is a captivating drama that explores the complexities of family relationships and the power dynamics that often emerge during gatherings. As we meet the title character, Krisha, we are immediately drawn into her tumultuous journey as she attempts to reconnect with her estranged family on Thanksgiving Day.
Grumpy Old Men (1993)
During the winter season in a small Midwestern town, this comedy depicts the lives of two grumpy neighbors, John Gustafson (Jack Lemmon) and Max Goldman (Walter Matthau). With its witty humor, endearing characters, and genuine moments of emotional depth, Grumpy Old Men is a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving movie marathon.
The Oath (2018)
Starring Tiffany Haddish and Ike Barinholtz, The Oath follows a couple, Chris and Kai, as they navigate the political tensions and personal clashes that arise when family gathers for Thanksgiving. In this highly polarized and divided world, the movie presents a hilarious yet thought-provoking scenario that many can relate to.
Tower Heist (2011)
Feast your eyes on Tower Heist for a festive movie night! This action-comedy flick directed by Brett Ratner is guaranteed to bring the laughs. When a group of hardworking employees seeks revenge on a Wall Street billionaire who swindled them of their life savings, Ben Stiller and Eddie Murphy lead the crew on a mission to get what’s rightfully theirs.
A thrilling journey and hearty dose of fun, Tower Heist serves up a rewarding experience perfect for Thanksgiving. With its captivating storyline, hilarious performances, and heartwarming ending, this movie will surely give you something to be thankful for.
Pieces of April (2003)
Another Thanksgiving movie that explores the complexities of family dynamics is Pieces of April. This heartwarming and slightly irreverent film takes place on Thanksgiving Day, as April Burns (Katie Holmes) attempts to prepare a Thanksgiving dinner for her estranged family. Through its humorous and touching moments, the film reminds us that Thanksgiving is not just about the perfect meal but about embracing kindness and understanding, even in the face of past mistakes.
Sweet November (2001)
Sweet November tells the story of Sara Deever (Charlize Theron), a free-spirited woman who has a unique perspective on life. Every November, she takes in a different man, showing him a month of unconditional love and teaching him life lessons. When Nelson Moss (Keanu Reeves) crosses paths with Sara, his cynical and work-driven life takes an unexpected turn.
So, grab a cozy blanket, indulge in some delicious leftovers, and let Sweet November sweep you away into a world of love, growth, and the beauty of second chances.
Home for the Holidays (1995)
Home for the Holidays is another must-watch Thanksgiving movie that delves into the complexities of family gatherings with a delightful combination of wit and charm. This heartwarming comedy-drama captures the essence of the holiday season through its relatable and often hilariously dysfunctional characters.
Jim Henson’s Turkey Hollow (2015)
Jim Henson’s Turkey Hollow ventures into a whimsical world where adventure and family bonding take center stage. Nestled in the picturesque town of Turkey Hollow, this enchanting tale introduces us to the Emmerson family, who embark on a memorable Thanksgiving vacation that they will never forget.
Hannah and Her Sisters (1986)
Hannah and Her Sisters explores the complexities of family dynamics and the search for happiness amidst the chaos. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Woody Allen, this New York City-centered story weaves together the lives of three sisters, Hannah, Holly, and Lee, along with their husbands, lovers, and friends. Through a series of intertwining events over two years, the film exposes the intricate layers of love, jealousy, and self-discovery within this captivating ensemble cast.
The Ice Storm (1997)
Set in the 1970s, against the backdrop of a Thanksgiving weekend, The Ice Storm takes us on a journey through the lives of two suburban families, exposing the intricacies and secrets that lie beneath the surface of their seemingly picture-perfect lives. Directed by Ang Lee, this thought-provoking drama explores themes of desire, conformity, and the disintegration of the American dream.
Scent of a Woman (1992)
Scent of a Woman is not your average Thanksgiving movie. It tells the story of Frank Slade, a retired Army officer played by Al Pacino, who is blind. Pacino’s performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, and it’s easy to see why.
The movie follows Slade and his young caretaker, Chris O’Donnell, on a journey to New York City, where they form an unlikely bond. As they discover new perspectives, they learn the importance of gratitude and appreciation.
Garfield’s Thanksgiving (1989)
In this charming classic, everyone’s favorite lasagna-loving, lazy cat, Garfield, takes center stage as he navigates through the Thanksgiving holiday. The story follows Garfield and his owner Jon as they embark on a road trip to visit Jon’s eccentric grandmother for Thanksgiving dinner. Along for the ride is Garfield’s trusty canine sidekick, Odie, adding an extra dose of slapstick humor to the mix.
So, if you’re looking for a light-hearted and feel-good movie that will leave you with a warm and fuzzy feeling, Garfield’s Thanksgiving should be on your watch list. Get ready to dive into a world of animated hilarity and heartwarming moments as this beloved comic strip character brings his signature charm to the Thanksgiving holiday.
Soul Food (1997)
When it comes to the best Thanksgiving movies, Soul Food stands out as a poignant and relatable story of family. With a star-studded cast headlined by Irma P. Hall, this heartwarming drama explores the joys and struggles of having a close-knit family.
The Humans (2021)
The Humans is a heartwarming yet hilariously relatable Thanksgiving movie that captures the essence of family gatherings like no other. Directed by Stephen Karam, this film adaptation of his Tony Award-winning play brings together an all-star cast to portray the Blake family’s Thanksgiving dinner, a tradition tinged with equal parts chaos and love.
The House of Yes (1997)
Celebrate Thanksgiving with an unconventional twist this year with The House of Yes! An offbeat and darkly comedic feature from director Mark Waters, this movie sets a new standard for Thanksgiving movies. Wendy MacLeod’s play comes alive on the screen, showcasing the hilarious and often unsettling Pascal family dynamics. As the storm of the century rages around them, the family is taken on a roller coaster ride of emotions, secrets, and ultimately self-discovery.
Paul Blart: Mall Cop (2009)
Considered one of the funniest and most action-packed Thanksgiving movies, Paul Blart: Mall Cop follows the unexpected adventures of the lovable and slightly bumbling mall cop, Paul Blart (Kevin James). On what seems to be a mundane holiday season, Paul finds himself having to thwart a group of robbers who have taken over his local mall. As he employs his unique resourcefulness and clumsiness to save the day, you’ll be laughing out loud at his determination and strategies.
Knives Out (2019)
Knives Out is a twisty and clever murder mystery that injects fresh energy and surprises into the traditional Thanksgiving movie genre. Directed by Rian Johnson, the film follows the investigation into the death of renowned crime novelist Harlan Thrombey (Christopher Plummer) during a gathering of his eccentric family members for the holiday.
What makes Knives Out a standout Thanksgiving movie is its ability to combine dark humor and suspense with a playful nod to the holiday’s themes of family and togetherness. As the dysfunctional Thrombey family members are questioned by a charismatic detective (Daniel Craig), secrets are revealed, and the intricate web of relationships and motives begins to unravel.
Lez Bomb (2018)
Celebrate Thanksgiving with the contemporary comedy Lez Bomb, a heartfelt and humorous film directed by Jenna Laurenzo. A young woman, Lauren, embarks on an awkward journey to come out to her family during Thanksgiving. However, her plans take an unexpected turn with the arrival of her eccentric relatives and unexpected guests. From humorous family dinners to romantic encounters, Lez Bomb is one of the best Thanksgiving movies for an entertaining night.
The Myth of Fingerprints (1997)
From simmering tensions to self-discovery, the poignant Thanksgiving movie The Myth of Fingerprints explores the complexities of family life. Set against the backdrop of a New England farmhouse, director Bart Freundlich skillfully weaves together the interconnected stories of a dysfunctional family whose unresolved conflicts and hidden resentments come to light over the course of the Thanksgiving gathering.
Dutch (1991)
Dutch embarks on a wild ride with the lovable but unlikely duo of Dutch Doole and his girlfriend’s spoiled son. This Thanksgiving-themed road trip comedy serves up a healthy dose of laughter, while also delivering unexpected moments of emotional depth.
The film centers around Dutch, a working-class man who embarks on a mission to bring Doyle home for Thanksgiving. What initially seems like a straightforward task quickly turns into a series of misadventures as Dutch finds himself navigating the turbulent world of Doyle’s privileged upbringing.
Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
With its whimsical animation and witty dialogue, Fantastic Mr. Fox is a must-watch Thanksgiving movie that will captivate audiences of all ages. Directed by Wes Anderson, this adaptation of Roald Dahl’s beloved children’s book follows the mischievous Mr. Fox (George Clooney) as he leads a rebellion against three ruthless farmers who are threatening the peace of his animal community.
The Object of My Affection (1998)
The Object of My Affection is a must-watch Thanksgiving movie that celebrates the beauty of friendship and the ebb and flow of romantic relationships. Focusing on Nina Borowski (Jennifer Aniston) and George Hanson (Paul Rudd) and the blurry line between platonic and romantic love, this comedy-drama follows their lives as they challenge societal expectations. For a Thanksgiving that honors different kinds of love, this is a great option.
For Your Consideration (2006)
For Your Consideration offers a humorous take on the pursuit of fame and the strains it can place on relationships. This satirical film follows the story of a group of eccentric actors who find themselves caught up in the whirlwind of awards season as a potential Oscar nomination puts their lives and relationships under the spotlight. As the pressure mounts and their egos clash, the true essence of Thanksgiving is put to the test.
The Daytrippers (1996)
The Daytrippers follows the misadventures of the Malones, a quirky and dysfunctional family from Queens. The film begins with a Thanksgiving meal that takes an unexpected turn when Louise discovers a mysterious love letter addressed to her husband. Fueled by her curiosity, Louise convinces her family to embark on a spontaneous trip to Manhattan in pursuit of answers.
The Gold Rush (1925)
Are you in the mood for classic Thanksgiving movies that combine comedy and adventure? If so, look no further than The Gold Rush. This iconic silent film embarks on a comedic journey through the harsh and unforgiving landscape of the Klondike Gold Rush.
The movie follows the misadventures of Chaplin’s beloved character, the Little Tramp, as he braves the treacherous Alaskan wilderness in search of gold and love. So, if you want to add a touch of classic charm to your Thanksgiving movie marathon, be sure to include The Gold Rush.
One True Thing (1998)
Searching for must-see Thanksgiving movies? If so, make sure to add One True Thing to your list. It follows Ellen Gulden (Renée Zellweger), a career-driven journalist forced to care for her terminally ill mother, Kate (Meryl Streep). As Ellen gradually reconnects with her mother, she learns to value love and accept the sacrifices that come with it. Heart-wrenching and honest, this tear-jerker will leave you with a lasting impression.
Instant Family (2018)
This Thanksgiving, enjoy the heartwarming comedy-drama Instant Family. The film follows the journey of Pete and Ellie as they navigate the challenges of becoming parents overnight by adopting three siblings. Inspired by director Sean Anders’ own experience, the movie beautifully captures the joys and struggles of building a chosen family.
Rocky (1976)
For your next Thanksgiving movie marathon, make sure to include Rocky, the iconic underdog story. It centers around small-time boxer Rocky Balboa, who, against all odds, gets a shot at the heavyweight boxing title. With unforgettable training montages, a standout soundtrack, and powerful performances, Rocky will undoubtedly keep everyone entertained.
What’s Cooking? (2000)
Experience the Thanksgiving celebrations of four diverse families in the heartwarming movie What’s Cooking? Directed by Gurinder Chadha, this film follows the Williams, Nguyen, Avila, and Seelig families as they navigate the complexities of traditions and cultures on this special day. From cooking mishaps to family tensions and surprising revelations, What’s Cooking? captures the shared experiences that bring us together in the spirit of gratitude. It’s a touching reminder that, despite our differences, we can always come together to celebrate and be thankful for what we have.
Mistress America (2015)
Looking for the best Thanksgiving movies? Look no further than Mistress America. It follows the lives of Tracy and Brooke, step-sisters who embark on an unexpected and transformative adventure. Tracy, a college freshman in search of inspiration for her writing, becomes infatuated with Brooke, her soon-to-be step-sister. Their contrasting personalities and aspirations set the stage for a rollercoaster of emotions, as they navigate the challenges of friendship and ambition.
Dan in Real Life (2007)
This Thanksgiving, spend quality time with your family with the heartwarming movie Dan in Real Life. Starring Steve Carell, this film follows a widowed advice columnist and father of three who struggles with family dynamics while on a holiday gathering. Dan in Real Life captures the complexities of family relationships and the power of love, forgiveness, and connection.
Avalon (1990)
Avalon journeys to the early 20th century where an immigrant family, the Krichinskys, strives to maintain their traditions while embracing the ever-changing American landscape. So, grab another slice of pumpkin pie and get ready to be swept away by the enchanting tale of the Krichinsky family.
Holidaysburg (2014)
Holidaysburg is a charming tale that centers around the lives of a group of friends who reunite in their hometown during the Thanksgiving holiday. As the familiar sights and sounds of their childhood mingle with the bittersweet nostalgia of growing up, the film skillfully explores the complexities of adult friendships and the bonds that endure over time.