This year’s holiday lineup promises to deliver everything from heartfelt romances to thrilling adventures and delightful animations. Whether you prefer the comfort of streaming at home or the excitement of a big-screen experience, these must-watch films have something to offer everyone. So, grab your loved ones, settle in, and let the magic of these holiday stories bring joy, laughter, and warmth to your season.
Meet Me Next Christmas
In her quest for a storybook romance, Layla (Christina Milian) races against the clock in bustling New York City to snag the season’s most coveted ticket: the sold-out Pentatonix Christmas Eve concert. She’s determined to reconnect with James (Kofi Siriboe), the charming man she’s convinced is her perfect match and the ultimate gift on her holiday wishlist. The festive chaos of New York City, coupled with unexpected help from the quirky and endearing Teddy (Devale Ellis), turns her mission into a humorous and heartwarming journey. Filled with holiday magic and the signature harmonies of Pentatonix, this Netflix rom-com promises love and laughter.
Watch on Netflix.
Hot Frosty
We all know Frosty the Snowman—complete with his corncob pipe, button nose, and coal-black eyes. But this holiday season, the beloved Christmas carol icon gets a fresh twist in Hot Frosty, a romantic comedy starring Lacey Chabert. Chabert plays Kathy, a widow grappling with loss, who finds a renewed zest for life after encountering Jack, a dashing and mysteriously familiar stranger portrayed by Dustin Milligan (Schitt’s Creek). Adding to the intrigue, Jack bears an uncanny resemblance to a local ice sculpture, making this festive tale both heartwarming and whimsical.
Watch on Netflix.
The Merry Gentlemen
Santa’s arriving early this holiday season – and he’s bringing some dance moves to the party! Steering the sleigh are Britt Robertson and Chad Michael Murray, the stars of The Merry Gentlemen, a festive rom-com guaranteed to warm your winter nights. The story follows Ashley (Robertson), a former big-city dancer, as she rallies an all-male Christmas revue to save her parents’ small-town performing arts venue, the Rhythm Room. This heartfelt and hilarious holiday treat is the perfect gift to unwrap right now – and it’s sure to leave you feeling merry and upbeat!
Watch on Netflix.
Our Little Secret
When it comes to the phrase “the more, the merrier,” this situation takes an ironic twist. In Our Little Secret, Lindsay Lohan stars as a woman who ends up in the last place she wants to be for the holidays: stuck with her ex-boyfriend Logan, played by Pretty Little Liars alum Ian Harding. What begins as an awkward reunion turns into a hilariously chaotic Christmas when a shocking revelation forces the two to coexist for the season. This festive rom-com promises plenty of laughs, unexpected twists, and holiday charm.
Watch on Netflix.
That Christmas
Inspired by the beloved trilogy of children’s books by award-winning writer-director Richard Curtis (Four Weddings and a Funeral, Notting Hill, Love Actually, Yesterday), That Christmas unfolds a series of interconnected stories about family, friendship, love, loneliness, and a Santa Claus mix-up – plus a delightful abundance of turkeys! This heartwarming comedy is the first animated project for Curtis, who serves as writer and executive producer. “I hope it’s going to be a film that makes people happy – perhaps more than once,” Curtis said. “I hope it’ll remind people of the joy and complexity of Christmas, and some of the joys and comedy and heartbreak of childhood.
Watch on Netflix.
Carry-On
Think losing your luggage is your worst nightmare at the airport? Taron Egerton proves there’s a lot more to fear. The Rocketman and Kingsman star takes on the role of Ethan Kopek in the high-stakes thriller Carry-On. Kopek, a TSA agent, is thrust into chaos when a mysterious traveler, played by Jason Bateman, blackmails him into allowing a dangerous package onto a Christmas Eve flight. With tension running high and plenty of twists, Egerton delivers a gripping performance that will leave you on the edge of your seat, bracing for every turn.
Watch on Netflix.
An Almost Christmas Story
In the film, Moon, a curious owl, unexpectedly becomes trapped in a Christmas tree bound for Rockefeller Plaza. Amid the bustling city lights, he meets Luna, a lost little girl searching for her way home. Together, they embark on a heartwarming journey, discovering the wonders of the holiday season and building an unlikely friendship as they help each other reunite with their families.
Watch on Disney+.
Red One
Christmas is under threat in Red One, a thrilling action-comedy where Santa Claus, aka “The Red One,” is kidnapped just days before Christmas Eve. Without Santa’s leadership, the North Pole descends into turmoil, the elves lose their cool, and the entire holiday season faces collapse. Dwayne Johnson stars as the North Pole’s no-nonsense Head of Security, tasked with saving Santa and preserving the magic of Christmas. With unmatched strength and unwavering determination, he faces his greatest challenge yet in this epic holiday adventure.
Watch in cinemas at TGV or GSC.
Bonus: Spirited
While this is not a 2024 release, we just couldn’t help but add this gem! Every Christmas Eve, the Ghost of Christmas Present (Will Ferrell) is tasked with reforming a soul by guiding them through visits from three spirits. This year, his chosen subject, Clint Briggs (Ryan Reynolds), flips the script, challenging Present to confront his own life’s timeline – past, present, and future. In a comedic and heartwarming twist on Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, the story unfolds from the ghosts’ perspective. This spirited musical features original songs by Oscar-winning duo Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (La La Land), with dazzling choreography by Chloe Arnold (The Late Late Show with James Corden). It’s a fresh, festive treat that spices up a classic tale with humour, music, and holiday charm.
Watch on AppleTV+.
Whether you’re streaming from home or heading to the cinema, these films are sure to get you into the holiday spirit. Happy watching!
Looking for more movie recommendations? Explore our must-watch movies here.
