There’s something about the holiday season that makes me want to watch a few movies with the family. The season is great family time and one thing mine enjoys doing is watching a good film. We leave New York City to go to our home out east for turkey day and one thing we want is a feel-good movie. The holiday movies are a mix of genres from romantic comedy to focusing on the spirit of the holiday. It’s that time of year where the entire family gets to come together before Thanksgiving dinner. We love to spend quality time with one another. While most of these aren’t Oscar nominations or best picture films, they are some of the best Thanksgiving movies. Check out these Thanksgiving films to enjoy starting now through Thanksgiving weekend with your family and friends.
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving
This is a classic Thanksgiving movie! I actually think it might be our favorite Thanksgiving movies out there. This is a heartwarming classic that captures the spirit of the holiday with its signature blend of humor and heart. In the movie, Charlie is tasked with preparing a Thanksgiving feast for his friends. This leads to a series of comedic mishaps and moments of friendship. Despite the chaotic meal these characters enjoy, the movie reminds us of the importance of gratitude and making the most of every moment.
You’ve Got Mail
Another classic option you can’t skip! This romantic comedy explores the unlikely love story between two New Yorkers who fall for each other through anonymous emails. They are unaware they are actually business rivals in real life. It stars Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks. The film blends nostalgia, humor, and heartfelt moments as the characters navigate the complexities of modern relationships. With a cozy bookstore setting and themes of love and personal growth, it is a classic film.
Addams Family Values
Here we have a dark and hilarious sequel to the original movie, continuing the quirky adventures of the eccentric Addams clan. In this sequel, the family faces new challenges as they try to protect Uncle Fester from the gold-digging Debbie Jellinsky. With sharp wit and humor, the film satirizes family dynamics, summer camps, and the pursuit of wealth. The movie’s gothic charm, memorable one-liners, and standout performances make it a cult classic that perfectly captures the oddball spirit of the Addams family.
Friendsgiving
If you’re looking for a comedy, this is a good one! It’s about a group of friends who come together to celebrate Thanksgiving. They find their holiday dinner filled with unexpected chaos, awkward moments, and heartfelt revelations. The film mixes humor with real-life struggles, offering a fresh take on a traditional Thanksgiving gathering. It reminds us that sometimes the best holidays are the ones spent with chosen family, even if things don’t go according to plan
Holidate
This is a fun romantic comedy that follows two strangers who agree to be each other’s “holiday dates” to avoid the pressure of spending the festive season alone. As they navigate a series of family gatherings and holiday parties, their fake relationship begins to blur the lines between friendship and romance. Starring Emma Roberts and Luke Bracey, the film is full of humor, quirky moments, and the charm of holiday traditions. Ultimately, this is a feel-good story about love, connection, and learning to embrace the unexpected joys of the season.
Thanksgiving
This one is not for kids! It is a dark slasher film that takes place during the holiday weekend, where a masked killer stalks a group of friends and family, turning their gathering into a deadly game of survival. With its mix of horror, gore, and dark humor, the movie capitalizes on the holiday’s cheer, contrasting it with terror and suspense. This movie is a wild, bloody ride that offers a twisted take on the traditional holiday thriller genre, making it a unique choice for fans of horror looking for something new to watch during the season.
Knives Out
This movie is a modern twist on the classic Clue. The wealthy and eccentric Thrombey family is thrown into turmoil after the mysterious death of their patriarch. It follows a detective as he unravels a web of lies, secrets, and hidden motives within the family, all set against the backdrop of a sprawling mansion. The ensemble cast features Chris Evans, Ana de Armas and Jamie Lee Curtis. It blends suspense with social commentary and dark humor. Its unpredictable plot, intricate storytelling, and standout performances keep viewers on the edge of their seats until the final reveal. A fresh take on the genre, it totally reinvents the murder mystery, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The Blind Side
Next, this film is an inspiring drama based on the true story of Michael Oher. He is a homeless, struggling teenager who is taken in by a wealthy family and eventually becomes an NFL star. Sandra Bullock delivers an unforgettable performance as the matriarch who helps guide Michael toward success, both on and off the field. The film highlights themes of kindness, family, and overcoming adversity, making it a heartwarming and powerful story of transformation and opportunity.
Dan in Real Life
We love this one! It is a heartfelt comedy-drama that follows Dan Burns, a widowed father of three, played by Steve Carell. He struggles to balance his responsibilities as a parent with his own emotional needs. When Dan meets Marie, played by Juliette, at a family gathering, he quickly falls for her, only to discover that she is already dating his brother. This creates a complicated love triangle. Moreover, the film beautifully captures the complexities of family dynamics, grief, and second chances. It’s all set against the backdrop of a charming New England seaside town. With its blend of humor, poignant moments, and strong performances, this film is a touching exploration of love, loss, and personal growth.
Miracle on 34th Street
Furthermore, here we have a heartwarming Christmas classic! It tells the story of a man named Kris Kringle, who claims to be the real Santa Claus and ends up in a court case to prove his identity. The film beautifully captures the magic of the holiday season, blending whimsy, belief, and a touch of courtroom drama. It has a message about the power of faith and kindness. The film remains a great reminder that miracles can happen when we truly believe.
Funny People
This movie is about a successful comedian played by Adam Sandler, who is faced with a terminal illness and reassesses his life and relationships. He forms an unlikely friendship with Ira, a struggling stand-up comedian portrayed by Seth Rogen. He helps him navigate his personal and professional challenges. The film blends humor and emotional depth. Doing so, it explores themes of fame, mortality, and the complexities of friendship. It has a strong cast and sharp dialogue that balances comedy with real-life struggles.
Fantastic Mr. Fox
Fantastic Mr. Fox is a stunning stop-motion animated film directed by Wes Anderson, based on the classic Roald Dahl children’s book. The story follows Mr. Fox as he navigates life as a reformed, but mischievous, farmer-hating fox who faces off against three evil farmers threatening his family. With its quirky humor, visual style, and an ensemble cast including Meryl Streep, Bill Murray, and Jason Schwartzman, the film is both a playful adventure and a heartfelt family story. Fantastic Mr. Fox stands out for its animation, witty dialogue, and ability to appeal to both children and adults, making it a true work of art.
Instant Family
This is one we watch every year! It’s a heartwarming comedy slash drama about a couple, played by Mark Wahlberg and Rose Byrne, who unexpectedly become foster parents to three siblings. This dramatically changing their lives. The film explores the challenges and rewards of parenting, as they navigate the complexities of building a family and gaining the trust of their new children. With a mix of humor and heartfelt moments, the movie offers a realistic look at adoption and the unbreakable bonds that form within a family.
Silver Linings Playbook
This is a heartfelt romantic dramedy that follows Pat, played by Bradley Cooper, as he navigates life after being released from a psychiatric institution and reconnects with his estranged wife. He forms an unlikely bond with Tiffany, portrayed by Jennifer Lawrence, a widow dealing with her own emotional struggles. Together they embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery. The film explores themes of mental illness, love, and second chances, with standout performances and a mix of humor and emotional depth.
Pilgrim
Another one not for kids, this horror film that follows a family who invites a reenactor to their Thanksgiving celebration. This is where they find themselves trapped in a nightmarish scenario as the actor’s obsession with the holiday takes a deadly turn. The movie combines elements of psychological horror and holiday terror, making for a twisted take on the Thanksgiving season.
Free Birds
Perfectly family friendly, this is an animated comedy that follows two turkeys who travel back in time to the first Thanksgiving in an attempt to change history and eliminate turkey from the holiday menu. As they embark on a wild adventure, they encounter a series of comedic obstacles and discover the true meaning of friendship and courage. With its fun, family-friendly humor and clever premise, it gives a lighthearted twist on the Thanksgiving tradition.
Turkey Hollow
This is a family movie that follows a family visiting their uncle’s farm in a small town. This is where they discover a mysterious creature called the “Turkey Lurkey.” As they work together to solve the town’s holiday mystery, the film blends adventure, humor, and a bit of holiday magic for a fun, feel-good experience.
The Turkey Town Miracle
Finally, this is a holiday movie about a small town that comes together to save their beloved turkey farm from financial ruin. With the help of an unexpected holiday miracle, the story follows a group of residents who band together to put on a Thanksgiving festival. This group hopes to raise enough money to save the farm and preserve their town’s traditions. With themes of community, gratitude, and the magic of the season, the film delivers an uplifting message about the power of belief and togetherness.
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