Not Your Typical Christmas Movies: Festive Vibes in Unexpected Places
Written 20th January 2025 | Subscribe to our Christmas newsletter
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Christmas films don’t always have to be about Santa, reindeer, or a magical holiday romance. Some movies capture the spirit of the season—or at least its aesthetic—without being traditional holiday fare.
From action-packed thrillers to dark comedies and unexpected festive backdrops, these "not-so-Christmas" Christmas movies bring a touch of holiday cheer all year round.
Die Hard (1988)
Die Hard (1988) is often considered a Christmas movie because it takes place on Christmas Eve during a holiday office party, with festive decorations and music setting the scene. The themes of love, family, and reconciliation—like John McClane trying to reunite with his estranged wife—align with the spirit of the season. Iconic Christmas elements, such as "Ho Ho Ho" written on a defeated terrorist and "Let It Snow" playing during the credits, add to the holiday atmosphere. Its mix of action and holiday cheer makes it a unique Christmas classic for many fans.
Gremlins (1984)
Gremlins (1984) is a Christmas movie because it’s set during the holiday season, with Christmas decorations, music, and snowy scenes creating a festive backdrop. The story begins with a father buying Gizmo as a Christmas gift for his son, and much of the chaos unfolds around traditional holiday activities. Themes like family, giving, and the unexpected joys (and troubles) of the season are central to the film. Despite its dark humour and mischievous creatures, Gremlins captures the magic and madness of Christmas in its own quirky way.
Lethal Weapon (1987)
Lethal Weapon (1987) can be seen as a Christmas movie because it’s set during the holiday season, with festive decorations, Christmas music, and references to the time of year throughout the film. The story explores themes like family, redemption, and finding connection, which resonate with the spirit of Christmas. The holiday backdrop adds a unique contrast to the action and drama, making it a fun and unconventional choice for Christmas viewing.
Edward Scissorhands (1990)
Edward Scissorhands (1990) can be seen as a Christmas movie because of its magical, snow-filled scenes and heartfelt themes of kindness, acceptance, and love that align with the spirit of the season. The film’s iconic moment of Edward carving ice sculptures, creating snow for the town, feels especially festive, and the wintry atmosphere adds a holiday touch. Its blend of whimsy and emotion makes it a unique and memorable choice for Christmas viewing.
Batman Returns (1992)
Batman Returns (1992) can be classed as a Christmas movie because it takes place during the holiday season, with Gotham City decorated for Christmas, featuring festive imagery like Christmas trees, decorations, and snow. The film's themes of redemption, family, and generosity resonate with the holiday spirit, even within its dark and gothic tone. Additionally, key scenes, such as the Christmas tree lighting and Penguin's icy lair, tie the story closely to the festive season, blending Tim Burton's signature style with the magic of Christmas.
Iron Man 3 (2013)
Iron Man 3 (2013) can be seen as a Christmas movie because it’s set during the holiday season, with festive decorations, music, and snowy settings woven throughout the story. The themes of redemption, self-discovery, and giving—core to Tony Stark’s journey—resonate with the spirit of Christmas. The holiday backdrop adds a unique contrast to the action-packed plot, making it an unconventional but festive choice for the season.
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