65 Best Christmas Movies Of All Time Ranked

best Christmas movies
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‘Tis the season to celebrate with cozy movie marathons! Whether you prefer the classics (It’s A Wonderful Life, Miracle on 34th Street), cozy family flicks (The Christmas Chronicles, Home Alone), side-splitting Christmas comedies that will have you saying “son of a nutcracker” (Elf, Bad Santa), modern holiday classics (Klaus, A Boy Called Christmas), or even Christmas horror movies (Krampus, Black Christmas), there’s something for everyone on this ultimate list of the best Christmas movies. Grab the eggnog, dim the lights, and get ready for festive fun.

65

Deck the Halls (2006)

In this hilarious Christmas comedy, Steve (Matthew Broderick) discovers that his holiday cheer takes a hit when his neighbor Danny (Danny DeVito) moves in with dreams of creating the brightest, most over-the-top light show this side of outer space. 

64

Holidate (2020)

Are you the last singleton in your family during the holidays? Then you need a holidate! The fake dating trope is given a modern spin and turned into a hilarious yet heart-warming holiday movie. Get ready for a festive night in!

63

Falling for Christmas (2022)

Lindsey Lohen stars in Falling for Christmas, a sweet romantic comedy about a socialite who suffers an amnesia-inducing ski accident, leaving her with no recollection of who she is. Stranded in the care of a single father and daughter living in a cozy cabin, she starts to discover the true meaning of Christmas.

62

Babes in Toyland (1986)

In the delightful and enchanting Babes in Toyland, a young girl is spirited away to a miraculous world of toys and dreams – the wondrous Toyland. There, she discovers a fantastical place filled with adventure and the possibility of miracles. 

61

A Christmas Prince (2017)

In A Christmas Prince, a New York chef gets a fairytale romance when she falls for a real-life prince charming.

60

Ernest Saves Christmas (1988)

Ernest Saves Christmas is a festive comedy featuring a lovable taxi driver who finds himself in the unique position of helping Santa Claus find his next successor. Join Ernest as he sets out on a heartwarming quest to save the holiday season!

59

Spirited (2022)

Ryan Reynolds and Will Ferrell team up for an uproarious and heartwarming spin on a classic Christmas tale in Spirited. Brimming with holiday cheer and the magic of Christmas, Spirited is a must-watch during the holidays. 

58

Carol (2015)

Based on Patricia Highsmith’s groundbreaking novel The Price of Salt, Carol follows the passionate relationship between an aspiring photographer (Rooney Mara) and an older woman (Cate Blanchett), sparked by a chance meeting. With lush visuals, an emotional soundtrack, and standout performances, this moving romantic period drama will bring warmth and spice to your holiday movie list.

57

The Princess Switch (2018)

Vanessa Hudgens brings the cheer in The Princess Switch, a feel-good Christmas romantic comedy. When a Chicago baker switches places with her lookalike, who just so happens to be a princess, it’s the perfect recipe for love and a dash of holiday fun. 

56

Gremlins (1984)

Do you want to give your Christmas some horror-spiced flavor? Then add Gremlins to your holiday movie playlist! A horde of naughty, troublesome little gremlins will surely put a comedic twist on Christmas, but don’t forget about a lovable Gizmo who captures our hearts. So grab some popcorn, cue up the movie, and get ready to laugh and shriek in equal measure.

55

Remember the Night (1940)

Starring Barbara Stanwyck and Fred MacMurray, Remember the Night is a heartwarming Christmas love story. When District Attorney MacMurray meets petty shoplifter Stanwyck, their unexpected romance blossoms just in time for the holidays.

54

Noelle (2019)

Anna Kendrick stars as Noelle in Disney+’s heart-warming Christmas classic. When her brother Nick is chosen to assume the role of Santa Claus, he suddenly develops cold feet, leaving Noelle to take up the mantle and save Christmas!

53

Let It Snow (2019)

When a snowstorm descends on a small town, it brings together a group of high school students for a festive adventure of friendship, romance, and Christmas cheer. Get ready to be swept away into the delightful spirit of the season with Let It Snow!

52

Office Christmas Party (2016)

Jennifer Aniston, Jason Bateman, and T.J. Miller lead the hilarious cast of Office Christmas Party, a Christmas comedy about an unforgettable holiday office bash. Have yourself a ‘lit’ little Christmas!

51

It Happened on 5th Avenue (1947)

Set in 1940s New York City, It Happened On 5th Avenue is an essential holiday classic. Starring Victor Moore, Ann Harding and Gale Storm, this Christmas movie follows the adventures of Aloysius T. McKeever, who finds temporary shelter in a Fifth Avenue mansion much to the delight of two homeless veterans living in the basement. 

50

Violent Night (2023)

Ready for a movie that goes beyond the usual Christmas cheer? Check out Violent Night, starring David Harbour as a Santa Claus with a twist. This dark comedy delivers all the gore and action its title promises, while upending expectations of the jolly old elf. So if you’re done with the conventional holiday fare, check out Violent Night for a truly unique take on the season.

49

Disney’s A Christmas Carol (2009)

Relive the timeless classic of Christmas past with Ebenezer Scrooge in Disney’s A Christmas Carol. Featuring Jim Carrey as Scrooge, this beloved holiday film brings Charles Dickens’ famous tale of redemption to life.

48

A Bad Moms Christmas (2017)

It’s Christmas time, and the bad moms — Mila Kunis, Kristen Bell, and Kathryn Hahn — are back in A Bad Moms Christmas! Settle in for a wild ride as this unlikely trio navigates the chaotic holiday season of family gatherings, annoying parties, and festive decorating–all with their signature mix of love, hilarity, and mayhem.

47

The Night Before (2014)

Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Seth Rogen, and Anthony Mackie team up to bring holiday cheer to us all in the hilariously irreverent Christmas comedy, The Night Before! For over a decade, these three friends have been reuniting on Christmas Eve to let loose and have a night of festivities. Get ready for a night filled with outrageous jokes, wild hijinks, and festive fun!

46

This Christmas (2007)

The Whitfield family is coming together this Christmas for the first time in four years and it’s sure to be a holiday they’ll never forget! Celebrate the season and join the Whitfields as they embark on a Christmas to remember!

45

Krampus (2015)

Krampus follows the dysfunctional Engel family as they reluctantly come together for the holidays. Fueled by the frustrations and tensions that often arise during family gatherings, their Christmas celebration takes a turn for the worse when they accidentally summon the ancient spirit of Krampus, a malevolent creature who punishes those who have lost their holiday spirit.

44

Happiest Season (2020)

Kristen Stewart stars in the romantic Christmas movie Happiest Season, where a young woman, Abby, sets out to propose to her girlfriend at her family’s annual Christmas dinner only to learn that Harper has kept their relationship a secret from her family.

43

Black Christmas (1974)

‘Tis the season to be jolly…but it’s also time to be on guard! Black Christmas puts a sinister twist on the classic holiday season with a deadly game of cat and mouse. A vicious killer is on the loose, targeting a group of sorority girls in a sleepless countdown to Christmas. Who will survive till the morning of the big day? 

42

Jingle Jangle (2020)

Jingle Jangle is a joyful Christmas musical that’s perfect for family movie night! When his granddaughter turns up on his doorstep, a once-jubilant toymaker receives the greatest gift of all: the chance to rekindle his magical invention and reignite the spark of joy within himself.

41

Love Actually (2003)

Love Actually is the quintessential romantic comedy for the Christmas season. Featuring an A-list cast and several intertwining storylines, this charming classic is a must-see for anyone who loves the holidays. 

40

Tokyo Godfathers (2003)

On Christmas Eve, Tokyo Godfathers introduces us to three unlikely heroes: a trio of homeless people sifting through garbage for their next meal. Unexpectedly, the trio finds a newborn baby and embarks on a mission to return them to their rightful home. Along the way, they must navigate the uncertainties of Tokyo’s streets and uncover secrets about their own past. 

39

Jack Frost (1998)

In Jack Frost, a heartwarming family drama, a father is tragically killed in a car accident. But, one year later, the family is reunited when he returns in a magical form—a snowman—to make amends and bring them closer together in the spirit of Christmas.

38

Joyeux Noel (2006)

On Christmas Eve, WWI soldiers from both sides of the battle front laid down their arms in Joyeux Noel, an inspirational film that reminds us of the power of compassion amidst adversity. At a time when conflict seemed inescapable, these brave soldiers put aside their differences for one remarkable night and embraced the joys of the season.

37

Jingle All The Way (1996)

Arnold Schwarzenegger stars in the highly entertaining Christmas comedy Jingle All The Way. This hilarious movie follows a father’s desperate attempts to fulfill his son’s greatest wish: the most popular toy of the season! Enjoy all the festive misadventures and laughs as this dedicated dad embarks on a wild journey to make his son’s Christmas dreams come true.

36

The Shop Around the Corner (1940)

The Shop Around the Corner is a classic Christmas romantic comedy for the ages. Starring James Stewart as Alfred Kralik, an eligible bachelor, and Margaret Sullavan as his co-worker Klara Novak, Kralik finds himself unwittingly pining for his anonymous pen pal, unaware it just so happens to be Novak.

35

Last Christmas (2019)

Emilia Clarke and Henry Golding light up the screen in Last Christmas, the sweet romantic drama about a down-on-her-luck Londoner who works as an elf in a year-round Christmas shop. Little does she know, this Christmas would be different when she meets the dashing Tom, setting her on a journey of love, self-discovery and good cheer. Grab a hot chocolate and get ready for a magical holiday movie!

34

Christmas With the Kranks (2004)

Forget about The Grinch Who Stole Christmas. This year, make it a point to watch Christmas with the Kranks. The Kranks may have wanted to forgo celebrating, but the joy of the season won’t let them get away that easily. It’s a holiday essential that will make your festive season even more memorable.

33

Frosty The Snowman (1969)

Frosty the Snowman is about to thumpity thump his way onto your screen.

32

Dr Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

Dr Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas, starring Jim Carey, will warm even the coldest heart this holiday season. The beloved live-action version of Dr. Seuss’ Christmas classic is sure to leave viewers with a full and satisfied heart that has grown three sizes. Treat yourself to an evening of holiday cheer with this timeless tale.

31

A Christmas Tale (2008)

A Christmas Tale is a heartwarming French comedy-drama about a matriarch whose world is turned upside down when she is diagnosed with leukemia. To treat her condition, she asks her children to donate bone marrow, inevitably bringing up painful memories from the past. 

30

The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)

Experience the holiday magic with The Muppet Christmas Carol! Join beloved characters like Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, and more as they recreate Charles Dickens’ classic story. 

29

The Santa Clause (1994)

Tim Allen stars as Scott Calvin, an ordinary man with an extraordinary job: he’s Santa Claus! In this delightful family comedy, Scott must grapple with the challenges and responsibilities that come with the role of St. Nick, like delivering presents, managing a team of elves, and even dealing with a skeptical ex-wife and her new husband. It’s filled with laughs, memorable characters, and a dash of holiday cheer – it’s no wonder why The Santa Clause is considered one of the best Christmas movies of all time. 

28

The Family Man (2000)

Jack’s life turns upside down in a split second in the Christmas romance movie, The Family Man. One morning, he wakes up to find himself lying in bed next to his college sweetheart, Kate, whom he had abandoned to pursue a career as an investment broker. Jack must now make a life-changing decision: does he stick to his lavish lifestyle, or choose the love of his life? 

27

Almost Christmas (2016)

It’s almost Christmas, and for Walter Meyer (Danny Glover), that can only mean one thing: his entire family gathered under one roof for the holidays. But it’ll take a Christmas miracle for everyone to survive the festivities and make it to the big day – in one piece!

26

The Polar Express (2004)

The Polar Express has it all: Golden tickets, hot chocolate, and magical train rides to the North Pole. Whip up some hot cocoa, grab a fuzzy blanket, and get comfy because The Polar Express is about to take you on a Christmas Eve journey.

25

Die Hard (1988)

There is a split consensus on whether Die Hard makes the Christmas movie cut. But whatever your opinion, one thing is certain—this action-packed movie packs one serious punch with Bruce Willis at the helm, iconic one-liners like “Yippee ki yay”, and some of the most intense fight scenes of the 80s. It’s the ultimate holiday movie and a must-watch for any fan of the genre!

24

The Family Stone (2005)

With an all-star cast that includes Diane Keaton, Rachel McAdams, and Sarah Jessica Parker, The Family Stone is a must-watch over the holidays. SJP’s character Meredith Morton has a particularly tough time trying to fit in with the Stones, with the family initially being way too harsh on her. This movie is a perfect holiday watch for those wanting to both laugh and cry during the festive season.

23

Meet Me in St. Louis (1944)

No Christmas movie list is complete without the classic Academy Award nominated film, Meet Me in St. Louis. From Thanksgiving to the Fourth of July, the film follows the Smith family as they navigate their changing lives. But it’s the iconic performance of Judy Garland belting out the holiday classic, “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” that truly brings the festivities to life. This timeless holiday favorite belongs on every Christmas movie list.

22

A Boy Called Christmas (2021)

When 11-year-old Nikolas sets out on his quest to find his father and the mythical elf village of Elfhelm, he embarks on an endearing, unforgettable journey. A Boy Called Christmas is a festive flick that has become one of the best family Christmas movies to watch during the holidays.

21

Arthur Christmas (2011)

When Santa’s jolly spirit takes an unfortunate turn and he forgets to deliver the treasured gift of one lucky young child, it’s up to his son Arthur to get it delivered before the sun rises on Christmas Day. This delightful and heartwarming movie for kids is sure to bring cheer to the holiday season.

20

The Man Who Invented Christmas (2017)

The Man Who Invented Christmas re-creates the captivating journey that brought Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim, and other beloved characters to life in Charles Dickens’ iconic tale, A Christmas Carol. With its charming story and festive spirit, this movie is sure to delight anyone who loves classic Christmas movies.

19

The Best Man Holiday (2013)

The Best Man Holiday is the ultimate Christmas movie. It reunites a group of college friends for the holidays after nearly 15 years apart. Old rivalries and romances resurface, making this a Christmas to remember. Join the fun and see what surprises the reunion holds!

18

The Holiday (2006)

In this festive holiday romp, two women, played by Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet, trade homes during the holidays and find themselves falling for men, played by Jude Law and Jack Black, in their new environments.

17

The Christmas Chronicles (2018)

Kurt Russell is unforgettable as Santa Claus in The Christmas Chronicles, the ultimate holiday family flick. When siblings Kate and Teddy devise a plan to capture old Saint Nick, their mischievous scheme goes awry, leaving them with the incredible task of saving Christmas. It will take all the wit, tenacity, and Christmas spirit they have to make it in time to set things right. 

16

Christmas in Connecticut (1945)

Spend your holiday season with Barbara Stanwyck in the classic romcom Christmas in Connecticut! Stanwyck stars as a magazine writer who’s cooking up a pot of lies in her columns – but her perfect life turns out to be far from it. Ideal for family movie nights, this movie will keep you laughing and in the holiday spirit.

15

Four Christmases (2008)

Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaughn team up for a laugh-out-loud holiday treat in Four Christmases. From wayward family members stealing your favorite “marker” to funny misadventures with babies, this film guarantees a good time for those looking for a few holiday guffaws. Don’t miss it!

14

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)

Rudolph is one of Santa’s most beloved reindeers and it’s all thanks to his iconic, glowing red nose. This classic stop-motion film is a must-watch for anyone looking to get into the Christmas spirit. A timeless classic, Rudolph celebrates the joy and magic of the holiday season in true festive style.

13

Scrooged (1998)

Bill Murray stars as Frank Cross in Scrooged, a modern retelling of Charles Dickens’ beloved A Christmas Carol. With Murray in the lead role, this movie is a must-watch during the holidays.

12

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Travel to Halloweentown with Pumpkin King Jack Skellington as he discovers the true meaning of Christmas in Tim Burton’s classic claymation, The Nightmare Before Christmas. Join the adventure as Jack sets out to spread Christmas cheer though in an unorthodox way, learning about friendship, love, and the holiday spirit along the way.

11

A Christmas Carol (1951)

Enjoy some holiday cheer with one of the best Christmas movies of all time—1951’s A Christmas Carol starring Alastair Sim as the iconic Scrooge! This beloved adaptation of Charles Dickens’s classic novel is sure to put you in the Christmas spirit with Sim’s unforgettable performance.

10

Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch (2018)

It’s time to join the Grinch in Whoville this holiday season! Benedict Cumberbatch delivers an outstanding performance in this timeless classic so don’t miss out on the opportunity to make it part of your festive movie marathon. 

9

Bad Santa (2003)

Bad Santa is the ultimate raunchy Christmas movie. It’s not one to watch with the kids, but it’s the perfect pick for a festive date night. Snuggle up with your boo, grab some hot cocoa, and get ready to giggle at this holiday classic.

8

Klaus (2019)

Klaus is an animated Christmas flick perfect for family movie night. Klaus introduces us to Jesper, a privileged postman who is sent to this isolated village as a punishment. In this dreary place where feuds and grudges run deep, Jesper discovers a hidden attic full of handmade toys crafted by Klaus, a hermit-like toymaker. Intrigued by the potential to uplift the town’s spirits, Jesper convinces Klaus to give these toys to the children, sparking a chain of events that will change the lives of everyone involved.

7

Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

In this Christmas classic, a jolly substitute Santa Claus, Kris Kringle, fills in for a drunken Santa in Macy’s Thanksgiving parade, and soon proves to be such a hit that he gets hired for the gig permanently. But when he insists he’s the real Santa Claus, a court case ensues to decide his mental health… and the fate of Christmas!

6

Elf (2003)

If you want to spread some holiday cheer, queue up Elf—widely regarded as one of the greatest Christmas movies of all time. Will Ferrell brings his signature comedic style to Buddy, a lovable protagonist who’ll have you laughing out loud with lines like “son of a nutcracker.” For heartwarming hilarity, Elf is a must-watch this season.

5

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)

Ah, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation—the film that reminds us that the perfect family Christmas doesn’t always go according to plan. Join the Griswold’s in this classic holiday favorite, and watch as Chevy Chase’s character, Clark Griswold, attempts to provide his family with the “good old-fashioned family Christmas” he’s been hoping for only to be continuously thwarted by things like dry turkey dinners and malfunctioning holiday lights. It’s a classic for anyone looking for a good laugh this holiday season.

4

Home Alone (1990)

No holiday season is complete without a viewing of Home Alone and Home Alone 2! Who doesn’t love the escapades of Kevin McCallister and his masterful booby traps? The Wet Bandits have no luck when Kevin’s around.

3

A Christmas Story (1983)

There’s a reason why A Christmas Story plays nonstop on Christmas day—it’s an undisputed classic. From the infamous triple dog dare that taught us all to never lick a frozen pole to Ralphie’s plea for the ultimate gift, a Red Ryder BB gun, A Christmas Story is packed with iconic scenes we can all appreciate during the holidays.

2

A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

Celebrate the holidays with A Charlie Brown Christmas! In this beloved special, Charlie Brown is determined to discover the true meaning of Christmas amidst the commercialism of the season. Enjoy a heartwarming reminder of the joy and hope the festive season can bring.

1

It’s A Wonderful Life (1946)

Nearly 80 years since its release in 1946, It’s A Wonderful Life continues to be one of the best Christmas movies of all time. This beloved Frank Capra classic was nominated for six Academy Awards and has since been recognized by the American Film Institute as one of the 100 best American films ever created. Whether you’ve seen it multiple times or are discovering it for the first time, it’s a must-watch year after year.