My Top 25 Favorite Christmas Movies/Specials of All Time

I will never claim to be the authority on what constitutes a good or a bad Christmas movie. However, I do consider myself a connoisseur of sorts. I love Christmas and everything that comes with the season, especially the movies and specials. I also know that people have strong opinions about which Christmas movies they consider to be the best. I happen to be one of those people. I try to keep an open mind with every Christmas movie, but I have clear allegiances to a select few, which I'm not ashamed to admit. I've tried to watch as many movies as I can from different periods. Naturally, my list will skew a little on the newer side since I was born in the late 90s. 

Initially, I was going to make this exclusive to movies, but there were a few specials that I felt needed to be recognized. There aren't many of them, but enough for me to include. I'm excluding television series or singular episodes from shows because then it would become a little too niche. I prefer a full story told over 90+ minutes anyway. There is no discrimination in the genres for my selections. Not all Christmas movies have to be merry and bright. Some of them can be a little scary or violent. Also, I opted for 25 because it felt appropriate for the season. I do have a brief list of Honorable Mentions that I had to keep out of my Top 25. 

Just Missed the Cut

The Santa Clause 2 (2002)- There have been times when this was my favorite film of the franchise. Since rewatching it, I've taken a solid stance that the original is better for a few reasons. The biggest complaint I have is that they made Wendy Crewson's and Judge Reinhold's characters way too cheesy. They were good foils for Scott in the original. Now, they're way too goofy. Also, I'm not a huge fan of Spencer Breslin.

Better Watch Out (2016)- Christmas isn't as front and center in this as it is in other movies. That gave me pause about whether to include it. Still, it's central enough for me to consider it. While the name doesn't give it away, this leans more into horror. I'd consider it more of a thriller, but there are a few creative kills. It also features a fun Final Girl, who ultimately stays alive. I wish we could get a sequel to see what happens next. 

Gremlins (1984)- The adorableness of Gizmo alone was almost enough to get it onto the list. I'm sure with a few more viewings, it could threaten for a spot. The ending is a little too chaotic for me. There's so much happening at one time that it can get a little hard to follow. I also don't like that they take Gizmo at the end. It didn't leave me with the happy ending I felt we deserved. 

25. A Christmas Story (1983)

In most circles, this is a Christmas classic. In my family, it's not something that was part of our yearly circulation. My only exposure to it was the fact that it's a 24-hour staple on Christmas Day. If I'm giving my honest opinion, this movie is overrated. It's good, but it's not something I feel should be on television all day. It's about as 80s as it gets, with plenty of tropes and cliches from the time. The story is good. The performance from Peter Billingsley is fine. The side characters are largely forgettable. The reason it still makes my Top 25, outside of its reputation, is the funny moments. There are plenty of them. It's not the most quotable movie, but I'm sure everyone has heard "You'll shoot your eye out" a time or two. The scene with Santa at the mall is another one. If you like this movie, good or you. I think it's fine, if not a little overhyped. 

24. The Christmas Chronicles (2018)

Did I expect Kurt Russell to make an excellent Santa Claus? Of course, I did. This Netflix original stars Russell, who has to save Christmas after two kids complicate Christmas night after they try to get proof that he's real. They stow away on his sleigh, but it crashes, causing things to go into disarray. The kids in question, played by Judah Lewis and Darby Camp, don't bring down Russell's performance at all. In fact, they play well together. The thing I like the most is that it doesn't rely on going to the North Pole; instead, it opts for the streets of Chicago. The sequel does exactly that. It doesn't feel like it's dumbed down for kids. The elves are likely the only "kiddie" thing in the film, but they kick some butt, so I can overlook that. I don't think this will ever be thrown into the "classic" sphere of Christmas movies. That doesn't stop it from being a good time. 

23. A Christmas Carol (2009)

The comedic performances of Jim Carrey tend to be polarizing. You either really like him, or you really don't like him. There's very little middle ground. The same can be said for motion capture films by Robert Zemeckis. I don't think this is the best adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic. I do think it's the most visually stunning version. Animated adaptations often allow for more vibrant settings. This movie has great locations. The humans are a little rough to look at, especially in the darker moments. It borders on uncanny valley territory at times. That being said, Carrey's performances are solid, especially his portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge. His greediness comes through as if he's trying to give the most faithful adaptation of the character ever. I'm sure there have been better, but Carrey does well. It's a little dark for a Disney movie, though I don't mind that. It's a good movie. It could be way better. 

22. Violent Night (2022)

One of the two new additions from last year, David Harbour takes a turn at Santa Claus. He's a Viking-turned-Santa with an interesting background that plays into the climax of the movie. As the name suggests, it's incredibly violent, with some very elaborate, holiday-themed kills. Harbour is given a largely unlikeable cast of characters to play off. At its heart, it's a home invasion movie. John Leguizamo plays the leader of the gang with very festive names as the apropos Scrooge. It also stars a Christmas legend who will show up on the list later. I appreciate that it doesn't skip on the blood. These aren't cute kills. They're bloody. Harbour plays the down-on-his-luck type well, as evidenced by his work in Stranger Things. This is much different from his role as Jim Hopper, though there are some similarities. Some of the characters likely won't have aged well in a few years once the trends are updated. Regardless, I'm interested to see what a potential sequel could lead to. Especially if we get to meet Mrs. Claus. 

21. Tyler Perry's A Madea Christmas (2013)

Some people likely see the name Tyler Perry and roll their eyes. The Madea films are another thing you either like or you don't. I hardly see anyone in the middle. Most of the movies are very campy and cliche, with few exceptions. There was a point when they were super serious, touching on deep topics. This isn't one of them. This is pure comedy, for comedy's sake. Yes, there's a storyline and emotional moments, but at its heart, it's a movie about an exaggerated character around two of the most exaggerated Redneck stereotypes. It won't be everyone's cup of tea. There are absolutely better-made Christmas movies. Having it this high could be a crime against humanity. I don't care. I like it, and this is my list. Put Madea in Alabama, and this is what you get. 

20. The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special (2022)

As someone who loves Marvel, it would be criminal for me not to include this on my list. Honestly, it's better than some of the recent Marvel movies we've gotten. The Guardians of the Galaxy have grown on me since first being introduced. When Marvel announced they'd be getting a holiday special, I had no clue what to expect. It certainly wasn't Kevin Bacon as himself. While it felt like it was being advertised as the entire group doing something, the focus was really on Mantis and Drax, which is fine because they've proven to be a solid duo. It does a lot with its limited runtime. It gives us more backstory on Peter and Yondu in a cute animated style. It establishes a sibling relationship between Peter and Mantis. It formally introduces Cosmo to the MCU. On top of it all, it brings some decent laughs. Bacon shows his comedic range brilliantly. If they were to make another holiday special in the near future, regardless of the characters or teams, I wouldn't be too upset about it. 

19. Krampus (2015)

Upon a recent rewatch, I forgot how brutal this one can be at times. Some of the captures are particularly graphic. This is another horror-centric Christmas movie focusing on what happens when the Christmas spirit is in short supply. It features a solid cast of adults led by Adam Scott and Toni Collette and plenty of kid actors who do a decent job, too. The animated segment in the middle that introduces Krampus is one of my favorite parts of the entire movie. I always appreciate it when a movie dives into the folklore of a character, especially when it's based on a story as old as Krampus. I also like when a movie subverts expectations. If you're looking for a happy ending to a movie, this isn't the one for you. It'll fake you out. It's a good time if you're willing to deal with some scary moments. 

18. White Christmas (1954)

I'm of the strong belief that Christmas music can begin playing on November 1. Not everyone agrees with that, and that's their prerogative. I tend to favor older classic Christmas songs from the likes of Andy Williams, Frank Sinatra, and one of the stars of White Christmas, Bing Crosby. He has a voice that could melt butter. He and Danny Kaye combine as a solid team in this Christmas classic. I wasn't used to this older style of movie, but it surprised me how much I liked it. The music is good, the dancing is crisp, and there are comedic moments to go with it. Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen work well with their counterparts. At the heart of it is the sad story of a general in a rut and the men of his division trying to show him he's still important to them. It's never too serious for its own good and never too funny to wash out the important emotional notes. I'd highly recommend this for anyone looking to get a little outside of their box when it comes to Christmas media. 

17. Die Hard (1988)

I'm here to settle the debate once and for all. Die Hard is a Christmas movie. It checks a lot of the important boxes to be considered a Christmas movie. First, it takes place on Christmas Eve. Second, it takes place during a Christmas party in a corporate building. Third, there's Christmas music in it. Lastly, it has a feel-good ending that allows the protagonist to get home to his kids on Christmas Day. Bruce Willis killed it, but Alan Rickman's performance as Hans Gruber stands out the most. He's incredibly charismatic as the villain, and while you don't want him to win, you're invested to see what his next moves are. I also appreciate that it doesn't skip out on the kills because there are plenty to go around. I do hate when a movie has too many incompetent figures in power, which this movie has tons of. After watching it for the first time, I don't get why there's much of a debate about whether it's a Christmas movie. It clearly fits the criteria. 

16. Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

I knew I wanted to include one adaptation of Miracle on 34th Street, but I wasn't sure which would make the cut. Ultimately, I picked the original. Not only was it nominated for a few Academy Awards, it won three. At the head of it was Edmund Gwenn's portrayal of Kris Kringle. There's a charm to this version that I think is missing in the 1994 remake with David Attenborough. I think both portrayals of Kringle are good, but I prefer Gwenn's. The other actors also carry important roles. There are stark differences between the two, but the remake feels a little more mean-spirited in how it gets Kringle locked up. This original never feels overly dramatic. Like several others on this list, it's a product of its time. The ending will make you smile, both the court win and Susan getting the house she always wanted. It's a sweet movie that makes you question the sanity of this old man. Honestly, I don't think you can go wrong with either version. 

15. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1963)

This was the special that forced me to expand my criteria. It's the shortest entry on my list, yet it's just as iconic as anything else. The soundtrack is arguably what is remembered the most from it. There's nothing too fancy about it. The animation style is a little rough. The plot is simple and fun. Charlie Brown is as iconic as ever. It features all of the best characters from the Peanuts cartoon. Of all the Charlie Brown cartoons, this is the most revered and remembered. We always had a tree in my house we referred to as the "Charlie Brown tree" because it was bare, much like the tree in the cartoon. It's a short watch, so it's not like you have to carve out much time to watch it. 60 years later, and it still hits home. 

14. The Family Stone (2005)

I wasn't introduced to this movie until a few years ago. It's a tradition in my stepdad's family to watch this after Thanksgiving. If there's one thing I love, it's a good ensemble movie. This fits the bill in spades. There are so many A-list actors in this, led by Diane Keaton, Rachel McAdams, Sarah Jessica Parker, Craig T. Nelson, and Luke Wilson. The entire cast works well together, and they're hilarious. I love to hate Parker's character. I find her so annoying, and I doubt I will ever like her, no matter how many times I watch it. I always root for Claire Danes' character. There are so many quotable moments. My family can hardly go ten seconds without reciting a line or mimicking their actions. It has grown on me quite a bit with each subsequent viewing. 

13. It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

The oldest entrant on my list, this is widely regarded as one of the best Christmas classics of all time. I hadn't watched it until a few days ago, and I can see why it's so appealing. I was a little surprised that it wasn't as Christmas-focused as I expected it to be, but it definitely is. It has elements of A Christmas Carol, though it's still its own distinct story. James Stewart is pretty quirky, albeit a fun lead. He and Donna Reed have great chemistry. The runtime is a tad bit inflated for my liking, running over two hours. They could've cut some before the guardian angel came in. Still, even if you haven't seen it, you know how it ends because the ending is iconic. For my first time watching it, I really enjoyed it. I've lost count of how many times it has been used as something a character in a different movie is watching. 

12. On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969)

George Lazenby's lone appearance as James Bond is another potentially controversial selection. Of the 25 films and specials on this list, this is the most ambiguous. It's definitely not one that most people would see as a Christmas movie. Alas, it is in my eyes. On Her Majesty's Secret Service is my second-favorite Bond film, behind only Goldfinger. It's not just because most of it takes place at Christmas, either. Lazenby's take on Bond is much different than Sean Connery's. Gone are the days of a womanizing agent. Lazenby is more vulnerable and calculated. It helps that he has the best Bond girl to play off, thanks to Diana Rigg. She's far and away my favorite Bond girl. She's written to be incredibly competent and challenges him. Telly Savalas is also one of my favorite actors to play Blofeld, too. The Christmas themes are subtle, but they're there for sure. If you have to watch one Bond film, this would be my recommendation. 

11. The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)

Of the countless adaptations of A Christmas Carol, this is my favorite. The Muppets have tackled many great stories, but this might be their best. Michael Caine as Ebenezer Scrooge was an excellent choice. He's just believable enough to be Scrooge without being way too evil. Gonzo serving as the narrator helps with the flow. He and Rizzo are a great comedic duo, bouncing plenty of jokes off each other. To make it even better, it's a musical. Some of the numbers are memorable. Caine is the star, but he doesn't overshadow the Muppets. Kermit was a perfect choice to be Bob Cratchit, and he's probably the best character in the film overall. It hits all of the important notes the story needs to so it can remain faithful to the source material. If you've seen one adaptation, you've likely seen them all. This is the best one. 

10. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

When my Nana was trying to run down a list of Christmas movies, she saw the title of this one and assumed it was scary. I had to explain to her that it was an animated movie. This movie is appropriate for the final three months of the year, combining elements of Halloween and Christmas with catchy tunes and beautiful animation. Overall, it creates a fun experience for the entire family. It's not so scary that it can't appeal to children, but not so watered-down that adults can't enjoy it, too. My only gripe is that Oogie Boogie doesn't play a more central role. His song is one of my favorites, but he doesn't get much screen time until the end. The love story is also a bit forced near the end, though I tend to overlook that because I like both Jack and Sally. I wouldn't blame you for playing this non-stop from October through December. 

9. Arthur Christmas (2011)

Growing up, I was drawn to movies that showed the logistics behind how Santa Claus could deliver all of the presents in one night to every child in the world who celebrates Christmas. It played into my practical way of thinking. This shows us what happens when a child gets missed on Christmas Eve. The voice cast for the movie is stellar, led by James McAvoy and Hugh Laurie. Arthur's passion for Christmas and making sure everyone feels appreciated is something to behold in a season when we sometimes forget what's most important. The rest of his family are perfect foils for him, especially his older brother. There are plenty of funny gags and heart-warming moments. It's one of the newer films that will eventually be seen as a Christmas classic in due time. 

8. The Santa Clause (1994)

In years past, I've had The Santa Clause much higher on my list. Tim Allen's turn as Scott Calvin/Santa Claus is one of the most iconic portrayals of the bearded character. One of the best aspects of Allen's performance is his ongoing realization that he is now Santa Claus and how that sits with everyone else in his life. The skepticism shown throughout by Laura (Wendy Crewson) and Neal (Judge Reinhold) is warranted because imagine how crazy the sentence "I am Santa Claus" sounds to the average person. It's the most adult of the three films in the franchise, which I also appreciate. My biggest hold-up about it is Charlie. The older I get, the more I find his performance way too whiny, which brings it down for me. The sequel is fine. The third film is an abomination that deserves to be flown into the sun. I understand that Allen might not be the most likable guy. It doesn't mean I can't enjoy some of his performances. 

7. Home Alone (1990)

Depending on the direction the wind is blowing, this could easily be in my Top 5. I didn't grow up with this being in my regular rotation at Christmas. I only grew to appreciate it as I got older. It's an iconic film with one of the most iconic performances from a child actor ever. Macauley Culkin's performance is phenomenal, hitting every comedic mark. The supporting cast isn't bad, either. Daniel Stern and Joe Pesci are hilarious and pull off the slapstick moments to perfection. The ending is a slow burn, with each of Kevin's traps playing out in some brutal-looking moments. Everyone talks about how mean the family is to Kevin, and I absolutely agree. They might be one of the most unlikable families in any Christmas movie. There is also a contingency of people who like the sequel better than the original. I can see the sequel's appeal. Personally, I prefer the original since the sequel is the same movie with the same premise and the same villains in a different location. 

6. Klaus (2019)

In a few years, this will likely be in the Top 5 and become my favorite animated Christmas film. One of the most recent entries on my list, Klaus is on its way to becoming a modern Christmas classic. There have been many origin stories for Santa Claus over the years. This is arguably the best. The kicker is that Klaus isn't the central focus of the film. The story reminds me a little of Santa Claus is Comin' to Town, though there is enough of a distinction between the two for them to be completely separate. Jason Schwartzman's performance is a highlight, playing a nepotistic mailman who is forced to set up a mail post in the most bleak city in the world. J.K. Simmons also brings it as Klaus. There's a big town rivalry, a charming story with a young Sami girl, and an ending that could bring you to tears. I don't feel like enough people know about this Netflix original. It's absolutely worth watching and keeping in your yearly rotation. 

5. The Polar Express (2004)

While the previous entry is nipping at its heels, I have The Polar Express as the best animated Christmas movie. Many take exception to the design of the characters as they border on the uncanny valley. It's a similar issue I mentioned with A Christmas Carol earlier on the list. I don't disagree with the criticism. The characters aren't the most refined we've ever seen. However, I'm willing to overlook it simply for the fantastical elements. Don't tell me you wouldn't jump at the opportunity to ride on a train like this if such a train and experience existed. I know I would. The designs of the various landscapes and adventure elements are so cool. It's a fun ride in every sense of the term. Some of the characters tend to be annoying, but the overall experience is enough to put it in the category of a classic. 

4. Love Actually (2003)

I have an affinity for movies with excellent ensemble casts, and Love Actually has one of the best casts ever. There isn't a bad performance in the group, and most of the plotlines are interesting. The only one I don't really care for is the guy coming to America to get laid simply because it feels like a throwaway story. The overall movie wouldn't change a bit without it. Otherwise, this movie is so much fun to watch just to plot out how each character is related. Some stories are more serious, while others are more light-hearted and funny. Personally, I love the two porn stand-ins, Hugh Grant as the Prime Minister, and Liam Neeson's story the most. There is plenty of heartbreak, love, and comedy to go around with a cast this large. It all collides to create a 21st-century Christmas classic. 

3. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989)

Playing more akin to a series of vignettes with an overarching story, there is no shortage of quotable lines from Chevy Chase and company. I understand that Chase's style of comedy isn't for everyone, but even if you don't like him, the rest of the family is there to provide enough laughs to keep you entertained. Cousin Eddie is my personal favorite. His showing up ramps up the comedy to an entirely new level. Randy Quaid has the best moments and lines. Some of the other family members can get a little tiring, especially the mom's parents. Regardless, my family quotes Aunt Bethany's blessing regularly, and "It's a beaut!" has become common vernacular, too. If you have this movie lower on your list, I don't disagree. It's not everyone's cup of tea. 

2. Elf (2003)

Among the best Christmas films to ever exist, there is a charm to Elf that sets it apart from other classics. I give Will Ferrell a lot of credit for this. It's crazy to believe it was one of his first starring roles after his time on Saturday Night Live. The rest of the cast also brings their best. James Caan, as the Scrooge-esque character, was great. Zooey Deschanel plays a good love interest. There are plenty of laughs, and not just from Ferrell. It's a light-hearted film that isn't afraid to get serious when it needs to be. At its core, it's a story about an orphan trying to find his place in the world once he's told his life is a lie. Normally, it's hard to make that anything but sad, but Ferrell's infectious attitude turns it into a fun time. It's a Christmas staple, and if you don't like it, I have questions for you. 

1. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

If I've said it once, I've said it a million times. There is no film I enjoy more at Christmas than How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Say what you want about Jim Carrey's tendency to over-act. I love his performance as The Grinch. Every bit of his make-up looks like a pain to put on, but he manages to give as emotive a performance as he's ever given as the green Christmas curmudgeon. The Grinch is not the villain. If anything, he's the hero the entire time. The Whos are some of the worst beings to ever exist, outside of Cindy Lou Who, who was much older than two. The film stays true to the book and the television special that came before it while adding the origin story we didn't know we needed. Carrey's comedy is at its best. He's given equally funny actors to play off. This film encapsulates the best of the Christmas spirit and will forever be my favorite Christmas film.