Christmastime is full of classic movies and TV shows, but sometimes you want something new to mix things up. With seemingly unlimited options in the age of streaming, it can be difficult to find new things to watch. So, if you’re looking for something new to watch to get into the Christmas spirit, we’ve got you covered!
1. Let It Snow (2019)
This Netflix movie is based on the novel of the same name by John Green, Maureen Johnson, and Lauren Myracle. Let It Snow follows several characters through converging storylines. Without giving anything away, a snow storm acts as a catalyst for setting up an eventful Christmas Eve. The movie is fun and features a cast of notable young actors such as Kiernan Shipka, Isabela Merced, and Jacob Balaton. If you enjoy the young adult genre of novels, or if you’re looking for a Christmas movie that focuses on the experiences of teenagers, Let It Snow will be a good choice for your holiday watch list. Stream on Netflix.
2. “Merry Happy Whatever” (2019)
“Merry Happy Whatever” is a hilarious depiction of a close-knit but dysfunctional family at Christmastime. The Netflix show is perfectly bingeable with 8 episodes all under 30 minutes. The show is comedic throughout but also has a lot of heart. It is low stakes enough to not stress you out around the holiday but still manages to keep you invested in the lives of the characters. Plus, with a great cast including Ashley Tisdale and Brigit Mendler, the show depicts this family in a way that is relatable but not overly cheesy. Stream on Netflix.
3. Falling for Christmas (2022)
This Netflix movie is for lovers of classic Christmas rom-coms. It hits all of the bases: falling in love, the trope of eventual lovers from different backgrounds, a matchmaking relative, and townspeople coming together for a Christmas miracle. Lindsay Lohan proves her ability to portray a romantic lead. Her character is a wealthy woman who spends time with a kind family at their ski lodge after an accident causes memory loss. As thanks for his help in such a trying time, Lohan’s character helps spread Christmas cheer to the male lead, a small town business owner played by Chord Overstreet. Falling for Christmas is a cute movie with all of the charm you would expect from its genre. Stream on Netflix.
4. The Grinch (2018)
The Grinch is a new take on an old classic. This movie brings a modern touch to an already beloved story. Many elements of the plot remain the same from earlier adaptations, but there are unique twists, like the inclusion of an actual reindeer and an attempt on Cindy Lou’s part to trap Santa Claus. If you are typically a fan of the Grinch’s story, you’ll love this movie. It is fun for all ages. The voice cast includes great talent that adds fun layers to the story. You don’t want to miss out on Pharrell Williams’s narration, Tyler, the Creator’s contributions to the soundtrack, or the amazing voice work of Benedict Cumberbatch, Kenan Thompson, and Rashida Jones. You can watch this movie on Hulu!
5. Happiest Season (2020)
Happiest Season is an entertaining, heartbreaking, and then heartwarming movie. It was written and directed by the iconic Clea DuVall and features Kristen Stewart and Mackenzie Davis as the main couple. The pair navigate spending the holidays with the family of Davis’s character, who do not know of their relationship. The movie provides depth to all of the characters involved. There’s a blend of drama, comedy, and familial and romantic love that combine for an enjoyable viewing experience. This movie is a success with its cast of well-established actors, a writer with a personal connection to the story, and loving representation of LGBTQ+ characters. Stream on Hulu.
6. “The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special” (2022)
This special is great for avid fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe but also for more casual fans! You do not need to be up-to-date on the MCU lore to enjoy this holiday special on Disney+. This special focuses on Mantis and Drax as they attempt to find a Christmas gift for Peter Quill. The upbeat and comedic pair travel to Earth in order to bring Kevin Bacon to Quill so he can experience a joyous holiday. They travel through merry and bright decorations, are full of Christmas spirit, and have action-filled fight scenes that all superhero fans can enjoy. Kevin Bacon does appear as himself in the special, but you’ll have to watch for yourself to know about the hijinks that ensue! Stream on Disney+.
We hope this list gives you something new and exciting to watch this Christmas!