This guide dives into some of the best Christmas movies of all time. From comedies to family-friendly films to more adult films, we’ll also explore fascinating facts and trivia about the top-grossing Christmas movies.
Christmas and cinema have always had a close relationship. Festive films have brought families together for decades, boosted the holiday spirit, and made us laugh or cry. Whether you need a heartwarming classic, a comedy, or festive escapism, the world of Christmas movies has something for everyone.
The best comedy Christmas films
While Christmas is often a season of merriment, joy and family gatherings, it’s also the perfect time for a good laugh. Comedy Christmas films are a staple for many as they are the ultimate feel-good option.
Elf (2003)
Will Ferrell shines as Buddy, a human raised by elves in this classic fish-out-of-water comedy about self-discovery. Elf has become a Christmas favourite in the last twenty years thanks to its quirky humour and amusing one-liners (“Santa! I know him!”). This comedy, directed by Jon Favreau, has great physical humour and endearingly heartfelt scenes.
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
The quintessential dysfunctional family film. For anyone who’s experienced a chaotic Christmas gathering, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is infinitely relatable. Chevy Chase’s portrayal of Clark Griswold, a well-meaning but overly enthusiastic father, is iconic and guarantees laughs while depicting the challenge of hosting a “perfect” Christmas.
Scrooged (1988)
Bill Murray’s modern and irreverent take on Ebenezer Scrooge is funny and inventive. A darkly comedic spin on A Christmas Carol, Scrooged delivers satire and a touch of slapstick through the lens of 1980s corporate America – culminating in a great musical number.
The Night Before (2015)
Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Seth Rogen, and Anthony Mackie reunite for one final Christmas Eve tradition in this raucous comedy. Mixing genuine friendship with outrageous humour, The Night Before follows three best friends on a wild night across New York City. While definitely aimed at adults with its R-rated content, it balances the laughs with surprisingly heartfelt moments about growing up and moving on.
The best Christmas movies for families
Perfect for movie nights with the kids, these family-friendly films capture the magic of the Christmas season. From wondrous and whimsical storytelling to timeless morality tales, these movies delight audiences of all ages.
The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
Filled with timeless songwriting and the endearing charm of the Muppets, this adaptation of Charles Dickens’s classic tale is ideal for families. Michael Caine plays Scrooge with sincerity, while beloved characters like Kermit bring the humour.
Home Alone (1990)
Both funny and heartwarming, Home Alone follows Kevin McCallister as he defends his house from burglars (Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern) after accidentally being left behind during Christmas. Its slapstick comedy, clever traps, and unforgettable score by John Williams make it a mainstream favourite.
The Polar Express (2004)
Tom Hanks voices multiple characters in this magical adaptation of Chris Van Allsburg’s beloved book. Using groundbreaking motion-capture animation, The Polar Express takes viewers on an enchanting train journey to the North Pole. With its stunning visuals, emotional score, and message about believing, this film has become a modern Christmas classic that captivates children and adults alike.
Klaus (2019)
This beautifully animated Netflix film offers a fresh origin story for Santa Claus. When a selfish postman is stationed in a frozen town, he befriends a reclusive toymaker named Klaus, sparking a tradition of gift-giving. With gorgeous hand-drawn animation and a touching story about kindness and redemption, Klaus has quickly earned its place among Christmas classics.
The Christmas Chronicles (2018)
Kurt Russell delivers a charismatic and unconventional portrayal of Santa Claus in this action-packed family adventure, The Christmas Chronicles. When two siblings accidentally crash Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve, they must help him save the holiday. Fun, energetic, and full of Christmas magic, this Netflix film spawned a sequel and has become a festive favourite for a new generation.
The Santa Clause Trilogy (1994, 2002, 2006)
Tim Allen stars as Scott Calvin, an ordinary man who accidentally becomes Santa Claus after a fateful Christmas Eve. The original film is a heartwarming comedy that explores fatherhood and belief, while the sequels expand the North Pole universe with Mrs. Claus and Jack Frost. The trilogy offers a perfect blend of humour, heart, and holiday magic that has entertained families for decades.
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
A beautiful vintage film, which brings a nostalgic touch to the Christmas season. This black-and-white masterpiece tells the story of a Macy’s Santa Claus who claims to be the real thing. Its timeless message of hope and belief resonates with all generations.
The best adult Christmas films
Not all Christmas movies are for children! These films have mature themes or unconventional Christmas storylines, perfect for an older audience looking for something outside a family-friendly context.
Bad Santa (2003)
15 rated and unapologetic, this dark comedy centres on a conman (played by Billy Bob Thornton) posing as a Santa Claus in a mall to rob department stores. Despite its crude humour, Bad Santa finds a small sliver of redemption in its unlikely friendships and follows a Scrooge-like character arc.
Die Hard (1988)
Yes, it’s a Christmas movie. The debate rolls on!
Set during a Christmas Eve office party, Bruce Willis stars as John McClane in an exciting and engaging action thriller that has become a holiday favourite in its own right. The festive setting blended with violence ensures lasting debates around its holiday status.
Office Christmas Party (2016)
When a branch manager throws an epic Christmas party to impress a potential client and save jobs, chaos inevitably ensues. This ensemble comedy featuring Jason Bateman, Jennifer Aniston, and Kate McKinnon delivers outrageous office party scenarios and R-rated humour. It’s the perfect film for anyone who’s experienced the awkwardness of workplace holiday celebrations.
Gremlins (1984)
Joe Dante’s horror-comedy hybrid remains one of the most unique Christmas films ever made. When a young man receives a mysterious creature called a Mogwai as a Christmas present, breaking the care rules unleashes chaos in a small town. With its dark humour, practical effects, and genuine scares, Gremlins perfectly blends festive cheer with mischievous mayhem.
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
While suitable for all ages, It’s a Wonderful Life is one of the greatest Christmas films for adults, given its reflective and almost existential nature. George Bailey’s (played by James Stewart) life-changing realisation is beautifully captured, emphasising self-worth and gratitude.
Top-grossing Christmas movies of all time
Christmas movies aren’t just beloved, they’re also big business. Here are the all-time leading titles at the box office:
- The Grinch (2018) – $538M
- Home Alone – $476M
- Alvin and The Chipmunks – $365M
- Home Alone 2 – $358M
- How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) – $345M
The data proves that successful Christmas films can be a lucrative niche in filmmaking.
Has a Christmas movie ever won an Oscar?
Although rare, Christmas films have impressed at the Academy Awards. The most notable example is It’s a Wonderful Life, which was nominated for six Oscars and won a Technical Achievement Award in 1947.
Additionally, Miracle on 34th Street won three Oscars, including Best Supporting Actor for Edmund Gwenn and Best Writing, providing another reason to re-watch this classic.
What is the most rewatched Christmas movie?
According to surveys and streaming data, Home Alone holds the title of the most rewatched Christmas movie globally. With its endlessly amusing premise, comedic brilliance and iconic characters, it’s no wonder viewers of all ages revisit Kevin’s story, year after year.
Turn your passion for film into a dream career
Whether you’re a fan of heartwarming classics or laugh-out-loud comedies, Christmas movies showcase the incredible diversity of filmmaking. For aspiring filmmakers, these stories offer inspiration, exploring a range of themes and tapping into the collective consciousness of people during this holiday period.
If the magic of Christmas films has sparked your interest in filmmaking, here at Access Creative College we can turn that dream into reality. Our film courses blend creativity and technical expertise, helping students master storytelling, camera work, editing, and production.
Take your first step today and explore our courses that are designed to unlock your potential. Apply online today!
