- Christmas
- 19th Dec 2025
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New and old Christmas films to watch over the festive break
Nothing says Christmas like snuggling up with a good film, a blanket, and maybe a hot chocolate (or two).
Whether you’re drawn to heartwarming classics that never get old or want to discover the newest festive releases, we’ve rounded up the ultimate list of Christmas films to get you into the spirit of the season.
MODERN GEMS
Our Little Secret – Netflix
Avery and Logan haven’t spoken in 10 years since they broke up. As Christmas approaches, they discover that their new partners are siblings, and they’ve both been invited to stay with the family for the holidays. Avery proposes that they keep their past a secret to avoid any awkward confrontations, but hiding the truth turns out to be much more difficult than it seems…
Carry On – Netflix
Taron Egerton stars as TSA agent Ethan Kopek, who is blackmailed by a mysterious traveller (Jason Bateman). Ethan is forced to let an ominous package through security onto a Christmas Day flight. If your festive viewing includes watching films like Die Hard, then make sure this suspenseful thriller is on your watch list this Christmas.
An Almost Christmas Story – Disney +
An Almost Christmas Story follows Moon, a curious young owl who unexpectedly finds himself stuck in a Christmas tree destined for Rockefeller Plaza. In his attempts to escape the bustling city, Moon befriends a lost little girl named Luna. Together, they embark on a heartwarming adventure, discovering the magic of the holiday season and forming an unlikely bond as they journey back home to reunite with their parents.
That Christmas – Netflix
Based on the charming trilogy of children’s books by multi-award-winning writer/director Richard Curtis, That Christmas follows a series of entwined tales about family and friends, love and loneliness and Santa Claus making a big mistake, not to mention an enormous number of turkeys. This heartwarming comedy marks Curtis’ first foray into the world of animation. The voice cast includes Bill Nighy, Brian Cox, Jodie Whitaker, Kathrine Parkinson and Guz Khan, among other famous faces. This little festive treat is a great one for children and parents alike.
THE OLD CLASSICS
Love Actually – 2003
Love truly is all around in this very much adored star-studded festive classic that weaves 10 romantic love stories together during the most wonderful time of the year. (HLN fun fact – the word ‘actually’ is said 23 times in total during the film)
The Holiday – 2006
Two women who are grappling with heartbreak decide to swap houses for the holidays, finding new homes for their hearts in the process. Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz, Jude Law and Jack Black star. (HLN fun fact – Jude Law recently revealed in an interview that the cottage seen in the famous rom-com isn’t actually real. Every Christmas, people flock in their hundreds to find out where the famous cottage is, only to discover it doesn’t exist…)
It’s a Wonderful Life – 1946
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a Christmas movie as impactful as this magical classic. The film follows the story of George Bailey, a man who unexpectedly falls on hard times and contemplates ending his life on Christmas Eve until he meets Clarence, an angel who shows him what life would be like if he had never existed. A poignant, moving and uplifting tale, this is a must-watch to remind us of the true value of family, love and the power of community.
The Snowman – 1982
Our Christmas Eve go-to every year, this is one of the most beautiful Christmas films ever made, with gorgeous animation and unforgettable music. Whether you see it with a live orchestra at The Glasshouse, or watch it at home, The Snowman is a true Christmas classic. (HLN fun fact – the well-known song ‘Walking in the Air’ is not sung by Aled Jones in the film – it was sung by youngster Peter Auty, who was paid £300 but never credited. Jones first sang the song after Auty’s voice had broken.)
Home Alone – 1990
Home Alone has become a cult Christmas movie since it was released in 1990. After his family accidentally leaves him behind when they head for their Christmas vacation in Paris, eight-year-old troublemaker Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) must defend his home from The Wet Bandits – a pair of robbers who target empty houses in his neighbourhood. Kevin must act quickly by wiring his own house with booby traps to stop the burglars and bring them to justice.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas – 25th anniversary
We can’t believe it’s been 25 years since the release of this Christmas film that quickly became another classic. Inside a snowflake exists the magical land of Whoville. In Whoville, live the Whos, All the Who’s love Christmas, yet just outside of their beloved Whoville lives the Grinch. The Grinch (Jim Carrey) is a nasty creature that hates Christmas, and plots to steal it away from the Who’s, whom he equally abhors. Yet a small child, Cindy Lou Who, decides to try befriending the Grinch. Based on the classic children’s book by Dr Seuss.
Chris Kingston
Entertainment Writer
Chris is Laura's brother and the font of all knowledge when it comes to anything related to TV, film and books. He provides our popular round-ups on what to watch at the cinema, the TV not to miss, and new cultural releases.
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