Yippee-Ki-Yay! There’s nothing quite like collapsing on the couch after a day of holiday chaos, armed with a mountain of snacks and a remote. Whether you’re avoiding another family game of charades or just trying to thaw out from the cold, we’ve rounded up the perfect mix of movies to match your mood. Into true Christmas classics like “It’s a Wonderful Life”? Are you more of an out-of-the-box LOTR-lover? No judgment; this lineup is guaranteed to deliver all the cozy vibes and none of the awkward small talk.
Top 12 movies to watch this holiday season
1. Elf
A human raised by elves at the North Pole sets off for the big city to find his biological father, armed with boundless holiday cheer, zero social skills, and an alarming addiction to maple syrup.
Why we love it: Nothing brings back childhood innocence like Will Ferrell prancing around in yellow tights. Whether young or young at heart, Elf is a feel-good reminder that Christmas magic can lift sleighs, spirits, and possibly your blood sugar. Perfect for families or anyone needing a good laugh and a little extra connection over the holidays.
2. Home Alone
Most families forget their charge cords when traveling—the McAllister’s forgot eight-year-old Kevin. When his frazzled family jets off for the holidays, Kevin is left to fend off two burglars with an arsenal of booby traps that would land most kids in juvie.
Why we love it: Home Alone is a trip down nostalgia lane that reminds us of simpler times—like when landlines and pizza delivery were the height of convenience. Macaulay Culkin’s resourcefulness makes for great cinema, and with Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern hilariously bungling every robbery attempt, this holiday classic is comedy gold.
Pro Tip: Stick to the first two films. Anything beyond that is like trying to microwave leftover French fries: disappointing and kind of sad.
3. It’s a Wonderful Life
Frank Capra wants you to know that life could always be worse. A man at rock bottom is ready to throw in the towel until an angel-in-training shows him just how terrible life would be for everyone he loves if he were gone. Spoiler: Things get messy without George Bailey.
Why we love it: This classic is the original Christmas tear-jerker that somehow leaves you feeling lighter and inspired. Plus, Clarence the angel proves that even the most unlikely underdog can get his wings. Its message of hope and the ripple effect of kindness will warm even the grinchiest of hearts. It’s a must-watch reminder that, yes, your weird quirks and daily efforts really do matter—even if no angel is on hand to confirm it.
4. Love Actually
Set in London during the holiday season, this movie weaves together multiple stories of love in all its messy, glorious, and occasionally awkward forms. From unspoken crushes to grand romantic gestures, it’s a heartfelt toboggan ride down the slippery slopes of love.
Why we love it: Packed with humor, charm, and the occasional ugly cry, this film has something for everyone. Love Actually is a reminder that love, in all its forms, is what makes the holidays truly magical. Just ask Joni Mitchell.
5. Die Hard
On Christmas Eve, an off-duty cop visiting his estranged wife ends up facing off against a group of terrorists in a Los Angeles skyscraper. Because nothing ignites the holiday spirit quite like explosions, amazing fight scenes, and a barefoot hero in a tank top.
Why we love it: Bruce Willis takes holiday cheer to a whole new level—complete with machine guns, improvised weapons, and a villainous character that put Alan Rickman on the map. Who needs carolers when you have “Yippee-ki-yay” echoing in your head? Not in the mood for sugar cookies and sappy snowfalls? This is the perfect antidote: pure adrenaline, unforgettable action, and just enough Christmas spirit to justify its spot on the holiday list. Yes, it’s a Christmas movie. No, we’re not taking questions.
6. The Nightmare Before Christmas
Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, stumbles into Christmas Town and is so dazzled by the holiday cheer that he decides to bring it back home—what could go wrong?
Why we love it: Tim Burton’s stop-motion masterpiece is a whimsical mash-up of spooky and merry, proving that even skeletons can catch the holiday spirit. Plus, Danny Elfman’s hauntingly catchy tunes are impossible to resist (good luck getting “This Is Halloween” out of your head).
It’s the ultimate holiday crossover event, perfect for anyone who loves candy corn as much as candy canes. Whether you’re Team Halloween or Team Christmas, Jack’s misadventures deliver delight year-round—and remind us to stick to what we’re good at.
7. A Christmas Story
All Ralphie wants for Christmas is a Red Ryder BB gun, but between his parents, teachers, and even Santa, everyone has the same warning: “You’ll shoot your eye out!” Chaos and hilarity ensue as he schemes to make his holiday wish come true.
Why we love it: This film perfectly captures the rollercoaster of childhood holiday dreams and disappointments, from disastrous Christmas dinners to the trauma of wearing a pink bunny suit. It’s funny, heartwarming, and just a bit chaotic—like any real holiday season. Packed with iconic scenes (who could forget the triple-dog dare or the leg lamp?), it’s a charming reminder of the joy and absurdity of family life during the holidays. Warning: repeated viewings may lead to uncontrollable quoting. “Fra-gee-lay… must be Italian!”
8. The Muppet Christmas Carol
Charles Dickens’ timeless tale of Ebenezer Scrooge gets the Muppet treatment, with Michael Caine as the grumpy miser and Kermit the Frog leading the charge as the ever-hopeful Bob Cratchit.
Why we love it: The Muppets bring their signature humor and heart to this classic story, with catchy songs and a dash of Gonzo’s offbeat narration. It’s the perfect blend of holiday cheer and life lessons, served with a side of puppetry magic—this might be the only version where you cry and laugh at a singing vegetable. Whether you’re a Dickens fan or a die-hard Muppets enthusiast, this family-friendly adaptation is a holiday treasure.
9. Gremlins
When a well-meaning Christmas gift goes wrong, a small town is overrun by mischievous creatures with zero respect for holiday cheer—or personal property. Another reminder to adopt, not shop.
Why we love it: Gremlins is the perfect cocktail of horror and humor; it’s chaotic, funny, and a little creepy, making it a standout in a sea of saccharine-filled holiday movies. If you’re tired of traditional holiday fare, this film offers a deliciously twisted alternative. Just remember the rules: No bright light, no water, and for the love of all things festive, don’t feed them after midnight.
10. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
Clark Griswold is determined to deliver the perfect family Christmas, no matter who gets hurt. Unfortunately, everything that can go wrong absolutely does—usually in the most absurd way possible.
Why we love it: National Lampoon serves up an absurdly relatable comedic masterpiece, complete with moose antler eggnog cups. Chevy Chase’s knack for physical comedy shines, from his battles with an overzealous Christmas tree to his epic showdown with faulty holiday lights. And let’s not forget Cousin Eddie, the gift that keeps on giving. If you’ve ever had a holiday that didn’t go as planned (and who hasn’t?), this over-the-top comedy is a cathartic reminder that imperfection is part of the magic. Plus, you’ll never look at a turkey the same way again.
11. Edward Scissorhands
In a cookie-cutter suburban town, an artificial man with scissors for hands is taken in by a kind family. While his creative talents captivate the neighborhood, his differences spark both fascination and fear.
Why we love it: While not strictly a Christmas film (our list, our rules), Tim Burton delivers a bittersweet fairy tale that’s as quirky as it is touching. Johnny Depp’s portrayal of Edward is both endearing and heartbreaking, and the film’s dreamy aesthetic feels like a visual snow globe.
Whether you’re drawn to its whimsical romance or poignant storytelling, Edward’s tale will leave you both misty-eyed and inspired to embrace individuality. Plus, his hedge-trimming skills are pure art. With its wintry vibes and themes of kindness and acceptance, Edward Scissorhands is a perfect fit for the season.
12. The Santa Clause trilogy
When an ordinary man accidentally causes Santa to fall off his roof, he’s magically recruited to take over the job. Across three movies, he navigates the ups and downs of being Santa Claus, from spreading holiday cheer to battling corporate Christmas takeovers.
Why we love it: It’s festive, funny, and full of heart. Tim Allen is the perfect mix of grumpy and lovable, and it’s a valuable lesson that we can all be Santa inside. The trilogy delivers all the holiday magic, from laugh-out-loud moments to heartfelt lessons about family and belief. It’s perfect for cozy family movie nights—or solo marathons with a plate of cookies (Santa would approve).
Under the Hard Hat’s staff movie picks
Need a bit more inspo? Here are some of our staff’s must-watches over the holiday season!
Andrea: The Holiday
Two women swap homes across the globe for the holidays—one in a cozy English cottage, the other in a sprawling Los Angeles mansion—only to find unexpected romance in their new surroundings.
Why Andrea loves it: Equal parts charming and heartwarming, it’s perfect for anyone who loves a little romance with their holiday cheer. Bonus: Jude Law and a surprisingly adorable tent scene with kids. What’s not to love?
Safra: Lord of the Rings marathon
Journey through Middle-earth with Frodo, Sam, Aragorn, and a ragtag fellowship as they battle orcs, trolls, and a creepy, jewelry-obsessed creature to destroy the One Ring and save the world. It’s what Christmas was made for.
Why Safra loves it: With stunning visuals, unforgettable characters, and a story that’s as timeless as it is magical, this marathon is the perfect way to spend a long, cozy weekend. Pro tip: Remember to stock up on snacks—second breakfast is a must.
Alexis: The Family Stone
A tightly-knit family gathers for the holidays, but when the eldest son brings home his uptight girlfriend to meet his eccentric relatives, misunderstandings, heartfelt moments, and plenty of holiday drama ensue.
Why Alexis loves it: The perfect mix of awkward family dynamics and genuine love, it’s a holiday movie that reminds us how messy and wonderful family can be. Plus, Diane Keaton is absolute perfection as the wise and fiercely protective mom. Pro tip: Bring tissues—this one will hit you right in the feels.
Madeleine: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
It’s a fan favorite for a reason! The Griswolds represent everything we love (and hate) about spending the holidays with family.
Alex: Die Hard
Alex doesn’t hesitate to qualify what makes Die Hard a Christmas flick: “My girlfriend doesn’t think it’s a Christmas movie, but I strongly disagree. Anything with a Christmas party is a Christmas movie, even with all the shoot-ups. And it’s on Netflix on Christmas, so clearly I’m not the only one!”
Mariah: The Santa Clause trilogy
While Mariah doesn’t watch much TV, she makes a special exception for Tim Allen when the temperature drops and the tree goes up.
Sarah: Love Actually
Whether you believe in Santa, love, or both, Love Actually is an honest look at being imperfectly human during the most wonderful time of the year. Did we mention bringing tissues?
Which holiday movies are your favorites? Let us know in the comments, and subscribe to our newsletter for more content like this!
