Holiday Movies You Can Watch Right Now

November 14, 2019 | Cat Elliott

Halloween has passed, which means that for a lot of people, the holiday season is in full swing. And regardless of if your tree is already up or not, you can start watching a variety of holiday films right now. Take a look below to see some of the top ones currently streaming and where you can find them. And if you’re an actor with holiday titles like these on your list of targeted projects, you might even take a few notes while you watch – in between sips of eggnog, that is. 

 

Let it Snow 

Netflix just released this teenage rom-com on November 8. The plot follows a group of high school seniors who are thrown into some interesting predicaments during a snowstorm on Christmas Eve. Along the way, the friends experience an enigma enshrouded in tin foil, a stranded pop star and a rager at their local waffle joint. In the midst of it all, their love lives collide, and the events of the night promise that nothing will be the same when Christmas morning rolls around. The teenage rom com fits the formula that Netflix has honed since the success of To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before, and Kiernan Shipka and Joan Cusack top a strong cast list. Other performances from names like Isabela Merced, Liv Hewson, and Shameik Moore will make you forget about the overall lack of Noah Centineo in this new film from Netflix.

Where to Watch: Netflix

 

It’s a Wonderful Life 

This feel-good film is enough to get even the grouchiest of grinches in the holiday spirit. The 1946 classic follows all-around good guy George Bailey as his big plans for the future are constantly thwarted. When a devastating mistake proves too much for him, an angel is sent to save him by providing a window into what life would’ve looked like sans George. Jimmy Stewart delivers a poignant performance in the lead role, and by the end credits, you might just be reaching for a Kleenex.

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video

 

How the Grinch Stole Christmas 

If you grew up watching this live-action rendition of the Dr. Seuss tale, it may come as a surprise that the film turns 20 next year. Many consider it a holiday standard, thanks to Jim Carrey’s show-stealing performance as the titular character. A strong cast that includes Molly Shannon, Christine Baranski, Jeffrey Tambor, and Taylor Momsen helps bring Whoville to life in this adaptation from Ron Howard. You’ll find yourself enjoying many over-the-top antics in this fantastical holiday film about the Grinch and his plans to ruin Christmas. 

Where to Watch: Netflix

 

Daddy’s Home 2 

This 2017 sequel brings back Mark Wahlberg and Will Ferrell for their respective roles of Dusty and Brad. Heavyweights Mel Gibson and John Lithgow have joined the original all-star cast that includes John Cena, Linda Cardellini, and Alessandra Ambrosio. The action and hijinks expand as well, as Brad and Dusty have to figure out how to have a multi-family Christmas with their polar opposite fathers in tow. The film will have you laughing at all of the antics that ensue, but by its end, you may just be inspired to call home and tell a parent that you love them.  

Where to Watch: Hulu

 

Holiday in the Wild 

The heartwarmer is another recent release from Netflix, and this one tells a tale of second chances and unexpected love that is perfect for the holiday season. Kristin Davis plays Kate, a woman who is jilted by her husband right before their intended African safari trip. She decides to go by herself and meets an elephant conservationist named Derek (played by Rob Lowe), along the way. Derek initially ruffles her feathers, but eventually, sparks fly as they set off together to save a young elephant during the holidays. Between its fresh premise and the chemistry between Davis and Lowe, Holiday in the Wild is definitely a film to catch this season.

Where to Watch: Netflix

 

White Christmas

You may watch it every year, or it could be your first time viewing the 1954 classic. Regardless, White Christmas will entertain you with two hours of song and dance, served with a side of romance. The film stars Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye as performers who fall for two sisters with their own show. Together, they join forces to present a special Christmas show in order to save a failing Vermont inn. White Christmas has stood the test of time, as has its titular song, and the film provides the opportunity to watch “Ole Blue Eyes,” himself, performing the holiday hit. 

Where to Watch: Netflix

 

Love Actually 

The A-list cast includes names like Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson, Emma Thompson, Martin Freeman, Keira Knightley, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Alan Rickman, Colin Firth and Laura Linney. The plot centers on eight couples in London whose lives intersect as they deal with their own issues during the holiday season. The film is different from other holiday movies with ensemble casts because its characters navigate some very real issues such as infidelity, death and mental health, as well as the ups and downs of love. The talented actors in Love Actually expertly nail the comedy in their storylines so that the poignant moments are well-blended. You’ll have plenty of laughs while viewing the film, and you’ll walk away with hope for the holiday season. 

Where to Watch: HBO

 

With both new and classic holiday films at your fingertips, you might find yourself skipping a holiday party or two to celebrate the season from the comfort of your couch. And whether your viewing time is accompanied by snow falling outside or palm trees swaying in the breeze, you can get lost in the magic of the season as it plays across your screen. But if you’re having a hard time transitioning from Halloween to Christmas, we recommend starting with Krampus.