Top Christmas Movies for Every Mood
It’s that time of year again—when everyone debates which Christmas movie truly reigns supreme. Sure, we all know the classics like “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “Home Alone” that play on TV every year, but maybe this holiday season you’re looking for something a little different. That’s where Associated Press Film Writers Jake Coyle and Lindsey Bahr come in, with a list of the best Christmas films for every mood.
If you’re in the mood for a film that feels like a Christmas movie but really isn’t, consider “Grand Budapest Hotel.” Sure, there may just be a bit of snow, but Wes Anderson’s intricate designs and Russian doll-like narratives will make you feel like you’re unwrapping a present. It’s available for digital rental and definitely worth a watch.
Feeling fancy? Check out “Metropolitan” from 1990. This Whit Stillman film about privileged youths on the Upper East Side is perfect for when you’re craving an elegant evening without having to break out the white tie and ball gowns. You can stream it on Criterion, MAX, Hulu, and Prime Video.
For a performance next to some felt, “A Muppets Christmas Carol” is a must-watch. Michael Caine shines as Ebenezer Scrooge alongside all our favorite Muppets. It’s a heartwarming take on Dickens’ classic tale, streaming on Disney+.
Need a good cry this holiday season? Cue up “The Umbrellas of Cherbourg” from 1964. This technicolor musical might not be solely set at Christmas, but its tearjerker ending at a snowy gas station is sure to pull on your heartstrings. With Catherine Deneuve’s whimsical bows and Michel Legrand’s melancholy score, it’s the perfect holiday watch on The Criterion Channel.
Looking for the best L.A. Christmas movie? “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang” has you covered. This neo-noir black comedy from 2005 may not be your typical Christmas film, but Robert Downey Jr’s performance as a thief-turned-actor in Los Angeles is worth revisiting every year, Christmas decoration or not.
