15 Unique Christmas Movies You Should Consider Adding to Your Watch List (Yes, Die Hard Is Included)
Die Hard, Dreamgirls, Edward Scissorhands.
Credit:
Moviestore/Shutterstock; David James/Dreamworks; Firooz Zahedi/20th Century Fox
As the holiday season approaches, traditional Christmas classics like Home Alone, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and Elf take center stage. Yet, there’s a growing appreciation for non-traditional films that offer a refreshing break from conventional holiday cheer.
One standout example is Die Hard, which has achieved a cult status as an unconventional Christmas movie, largely due to its plot revolving around an office holiday party. Similarly, other films such as Edward Scissorhands, Dreamgirls, and Friday After Next provide feel-good moments, offering viewers a reprieve from the typical holiday narratives.
Here are 15 films that capture a festive vibe without directly focusing on Santa or sleigh bells.
1. Die Hard
Bruce Willis in Die Hard 1988.
Moviestore/Shutterstock
Though Die Hard premiered in the summer of 1988, it has unexpectedly woven itself into Christmas lore. Set on Christmas Eve, this action film presents a compelling case for its inclusion among holiday classics.
2. Glitter
Mariah Carey in Glitter.
Moviestore/Shutterstock
Upon its release on September 21, 2001, Glitter was met with criticism but has since experienced a revival, particularly with its soundtrack topping the Billboard charts in 2018. Its connection to Christmas is largely attributed to Mariah Carey’s iconic status during the holiday season.
3. Edward Scissorhands
Edward Scissorhands.
Disney+
Tim Burton’s Edward Scissorhands encompasses a unique Christmas charm, combining romance and fantasy while featuring whimsical holiday decorations.
4. Dreamgirls
Dreamgirls.
David James/Paramount
Dreamgirls, with its stellar cast, is an award-winning musical that embodies a sense of home, perfect for festive gatherings.
5. Sister Act and Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit
Snap/Shutterstock
The uplifting nature of Sister Act, coupled with catchy tunes, evokes a joyous holiday spirit that resonates with audiences.
6. Harry Potter
Harry Potter.
Peter Mountain/Warner Bros.
The Harry Potter series offers a nostalgic marathon perfect for Christmas, especially the heartwarming first installment.
7. Lord of the Rings
Lord of the Rings.
Pierre Vinet/New Line
With an extended runtime, the Lord of the Rings trilogy makes for an excellent, cozy binge-watch during the festive season.
8. Batman Returns
Batman Returns.
Zade Rosenthal/Warner Bros
Tim Burton’s Batman Returns delves into darker themes while cleverly intertwining Christmas motifs into its narrative.
9. Friday After Next
Friday After Next.
Tracy Bennett/New Line
In this buddy comedy, Ice Cube and Mike Epps navigate holiday challenges, providing laughs and memorable moments that resonate during the festive season.
10. The Godfather
The Godfather.
Paramount
The themes of family inherent in The Godfather provide a captivating backdrop for Christmas viewing, enhanced by numerous memorable holiday scenes.
11. Little Women
Little Women.
Wilson Webb/Sony
Little Women, in its various adaptations, captures the spirit of the holiday season through the lens of sisterhood and family bonding.
12. Carol
Carol.
WILSON WEBB/TWC
Carol, set during the Christmas season, presents an evocative tale of love and longing amidst the backdrop of holiday festivities.
13. Creed
Creed.
Barry Wetcher/Warner Bros
The Creed films, timely released close to Thanksgiving, maintain a holiday charm, making them an enjoyable option during Christmas as well.
14. Hustlers
Hustlers.
STXfilms
Though Hustlers focuses on a different narrative, it explores themes of family and the spirit of giving, making it a quirky choice for the season.
15. The Holdovers
The Holdovers.
Seacia Pavao/Focus Features
This 2023 comedy-drama, centered on Christmas, features a professor taking care of students left behind during the holidays, blending humor with heartfelt moments, making it a must-watch for the season.
