Unforgettable Christmas Movies You Might Not Know About—But Definitely Should
Written 25th October 2024 | Subscribe to our Christmas newsletter
⭐🎅👇⭐👇🎅⭐
Buy 2024 Personalised Christmas Tree Ornaments here
⭐🎅☝️⭐☝️🎅⭐
The holiday season brings with it a slew of Christmas classics we all know and love. Yet, alongside the iconic films like It’s a Wonderful Life and Home Alone, there are hidden gems cherished by fans but less known to the broader audience. Here’s a list of under-the-radar Christmas movies, some nostalgic and some modern, that are well-loved holiday traditions for many.
1. The Little Drummer Boy (1968 Animated Version)
This heartwarming 1968 Rankin/Bass stop-motion animation follows the journey of a young boy who encounters the newborn Jesus. With themes of forgiveness and generosity, it's a beautiful yet lesser-known Christmas classic, perfect for cozy family viewing.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video or available to rent on YouTube.
2. Love Actually (2003)
This holiday rom-com intertwines multiple love stories around the Christmas season. The iconic ensemble cast brings laughter, heartbreak, and hope, showcasing love in its many forms and making it a beloved holiday film for a global audience.
Where to Watch: Peacock or available to rent on Amazon Prime Video and YouTube.
3. Get Santa (2014)
This quirky British film follows a father and son who discover Santa hiding in their garage. As they try to save Christmas from the confines of jail, hilarity ensues. Get Santa delivers laughs, adventure, and festive cheer, with a unique British twist that makes it feel fresh.
Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
4. The Christmas Card (2006)
This beloved Hallmark film tells the story of a soldier who visits the town where a holiday card was sent to him during a difficult time. It's a charming romance filled with small-town warmth and kindness, reminding viewers of the impact small gestures can have.
Where to Watch: Hallmark Movies Now or available to rent on Amazon Prime Video.
5. Fred Claus (2007)
Vince Vaughn stars as Fred, Santa Claus’s mischievous brother who reluctantly joins him at the North Pole. This family comedy balances humor with heart, delivering a memorable story about the power of sibling relationships.
Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, and available to rent on YouTube.
6. Holiday Inn (1942)
Starring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire, Holiday Inn is a charming musical featuring iconic Irving Berlin songs. The story follows Jim (Crosby), who leaves show business to open an inn only open on holidays, where he dazzles guests with seasonal performances. This black-and-white classic is filled with timeless music, romance, and dance numbers, making it a cherished favorite.
Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video
7. Mrs. Miracle (2009)
In this Hallmark favorite, a kind nanny steps into the lives of a widower and his children, bringing joy, wisdom, and a touch of Christmas magic. Based on the novel by Debbie Macomber, it’s a heartfelt story about second chances.
Where to Watch: Hallmark Movies Now or available to rent on Amazon Prime Video.
8. A Castle for Christmas (2021)
This Netflix original film follows a bestselling author (Brooke Shields) who retreats to Scotland, where she falls in love with a castle—and its grumpy owner. A romantic, lighthearted story set in a scenic, snowy locale.
Where to Watch: Netflix.
9. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)
This Rankin/Bass classic tells the story of Rudolph, a young reindeer who finds his place and purpose despite his differences. It’s an uplifting tale of self-acceptance and kindness, adored for its memorable characters and unique animation style.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video and Peacock.
10. Jack Frost (1998)
Michael Keaton stars as a father who is reincarnated as a snowman, giving him a second chance to connect with his family. Jack Frost blends whimsy with heartfelt moments, ideal for a holiday family movie night.
Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video and HBO Max.
11. Prancer (1989)
A young girl discovers an injured reindeer she believes to be one of Santa’s, bringing a bit of holiday magic to her town. This film highlights the spirit of the season and the innocence of childhood wonder.
Where to Watch: Available to rent on Amazon Prime Video and YouTube.v
12. The Holly and the Ivy (1952)
This British black-and-white film portrays a family navigating personal struggles as they come together over Christmas. It’s a thoughtful, moving film about love, loss, and forgiveness during the holiday season.
Where to Watch: Available to rent on Amazon Prime Video and YouTube.
3. Trapped in Paradise (1994)
Nicolas Cage, Jon Lovitz, and Dana Carvey star as brothers who find themselves stuck in a small town after robbing a bank, only to be embraced by its generous residents. It’s a funny yet touching caper with a holiday twist.
Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video and YouTube.
14. Surviving Christmas (2004)
Ben Affleck plays a man who, in a bizarre twist, rents a family for the holidays. This comedy offers a unique premise, blending humor with themes of loneliness and family during the holidays.
Where to Watch: Available on Hulu and Amazon Prime Video.
15. Klaus (2019)
A beautifully animated Netflix original that tells the origin story of Santa Claus through the eyes of a postman and a toymaker. Stunning visuals and a heartfelt story make this a must-watch.
Where to Watch: Netflix.
16. Bad Santa (2003)
This dark comedy stars Billy Bob Thornton as a conman who poses as a mall Santa. With crude humor and unexpected warmth, it’s a unique twist on the typical holiday movie.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video and available on HBO Max.
17. Arthur Christmas (2011)
Santa’s son Arthur goes on a mission to deliver a forgotten present before Christmas morning. This animated film is a whimsical adventure filled with humor and holiday cheer, perfect for the whole family.
Where to Watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu.
18. The Family Stone (2005)
Summary: A holiday gathering brings out family secrets and tensions, with a mix of humor and heart. The ensemble cast delivers standout performances in this exploration of family dynamics and acceptance.
Where to Watch: Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video.
19. Emmett Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas (1977)
This charming Jim Henson special follows Emmett Otter and his mother as they try to create a memorable Christmas. With endearing puppetry and songs, it’s a nostalgic choice for fans of Henson’s work.
Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video and HBO Max.
20. The Preacher’s Wife (1996)
Starring Denzel Washington and Whitney Houston, this modern adaptation of The Bishop’s Wife tells a heartwarming story of faith and family. Houston’s incredible music and Washington’s charm make it an uplifting holiday film.
Where to Watch: Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video.
21. One Magic Christmas (1985)
A mother struggling to keep her family together discovers the true meaning of Christmas with the help of an angel. This 1980s gem explores themes of hope and resilience.
Where to Watch: Disney+ and available for rent on Amazon Prime Video.
22. White Christmas (1954)
In this Technicolor musical, Bing Crosby teams up with Danny Kaye to help save a failing inn by putting on a Christmas show. Known for its vibrant costumes, unforgettable music (including the title song, “White Christmas”), and holiday spirit, this film has become a staple for its joyous scenes and classic Hollywood magic.
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
So, this season, when you’re browsing for something new, consider these underrated treasures. Whether you're looking for laughs, love stories, or some festive nostalgia, these movies bring unique flavors to the Christmas season. Happy watching!
Leave your comments here:
