Now that the holiday season has arrived, it’s time to prepare meals, shop for gifts, and watch some holiday classics with your loved ones. To begin a new annual tradition, dozens of new Christmas-themed films and television shows are released each year. There are a lot of masterpieces that have been declared essential to get into the holiday spirit. For some holiday nostalgia, it’s time to sip hot chocolate and watch these movies.

Wonka

Paul King, the mastermind behind Paddington, filmed the story of young Wonka’s struggle to build a dream chocolate factory. The film stars Timothée Chalamet as young Wonka and combines warmth, song and Christmas spirit, giving the story a touch of magic.

Spirited

Spirited is a musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” from the perspective of The Ghost of a Christmas Present. Will Ferrell plays a goofy ghost nearing retirement who has to face a cynical media consultant, Ryan Reynolds. The Ghost of a Christmas Present is a delightful addition to the holiday season.

Home alone

On Christmas Eve, a mischievous eight-year-old child, accidentally left home alone, must protect his home from two intruders.

Carol

Carol (2015) is a timeless Christmas classic that tells the story of two women in 1950s New York: Carol and Therese. Cate Blanchett plays Carol, a sophisticated woman in a loveless marriage, and Rooney Mara plays Therese, an aspiring photographer.

Die Hard

A New York police officer rescues his estranged wife and others taken hostage by terrorists at a Los Angeles Christmas party led by John McTiernan.

The Princess Switch

“The Princess Switch” (2018) is a celebratory film in which two similar princesses from different countries decide to swap places for a week. The film features Christmas cheer, romantic entanglements and a bit of royal drama, making it a cute and entertaining film.

A boy named Christmas

A Boy Called Christmas (2021) is a magical story about a curious little boy named Nikolas who sets off on an exciting adventure to the North Pole with his loyal reindeer Blitzen and mischievous elf companion Joel. The story features snowstorms, trolls and a grumpy old man who could be the legendary Santa Claus, and shows the magical world of Christmas.

A Christmas story

“A Christmas Carol” is a book-to-film adaptation of the classic story, a worldwide bestseller. The film follows Scrooge, a character who comes to terms with his past and the consequences of his greed. This haunting and thought-provoking retelling of the classic story is perfect for anyone who enjoys holiday horror.

Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey

Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey is a captivating film that explores the world of toys as children. The story is about a toy manufacturer who loses his most valuable creation, Jingle Jangle. This film offers a delightful Christmas adventure full of catchy songs and colorful characters.

Evil

“Wicked” is a popular musical fantasy that transports listeners to a time full of magic, mystery and misunderstood witches. The story revolves around the complex relationship between Elphaba, a misunderstood green-skinned witch, and Glinda, a bubbly blonde.

FAQs

Which new Christmas films are worth watching this year?
Check out Wonka and Wicked – both combine magic, music and heartwarming stories that are ideal for the holiday season.

Is Home Alone still a good choice for Christmas?
Absolutely! This timeless comedy remains a festive favorite, bringing laughter and nostalgia to the whole family.