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What are the best Christmas movies in 2024?

Whatever the scenario, these are the 10 best Christmas movies to make the most of the occasion.

Best Christmas movies: A close-up of Jim Carrey as the Grinch wearing a Santa hat during How the Grinch Stole Christmas.

Howard’s adaptation of the famous Dr. Seuss book is the most iconic, and for good reason.

It’s cheeky, absurdly silly, and warm-hearted despite the Christmas-hating green crank at the center of it.

It turns out even the Claus family bicker at the dinner table.

Jim Carrey as the Grinch and Taylor Momsen as Cindy Lou Who during How the Grinch Stole Christmas.

Succession, but make it Christmas!

This animated movie is an earnest gem.

Arthur Christmas is also very rewatchable, due to an emotional core that just works.

Arthur and Steve Claus in Arthur Christmas.

Read ourArthur Christmas reviewfor more animated cheer.

Many folks will argue it’s not really Christmas if you’ve not snuck in a Home Alone rewatch.

For more classics, check out our list of thebest Disney Plus Christmas movies.

Kevin, Harry, and Marv in Home Alone.

They band together as a misfit group over the breaking, learning to live with each other’s differences.

There’s a quiet reassurance in seeing strangers evolve into a found family, overcoming their disparities and challenges.

While imbued with moments of sorrow, it becomes a cherished and feel-good winner.

Paul Giamatti as Paul Hunham and Da’Vine Joy Randolph as Mary Lamb during The Holdovers.

Read our five-starThe Holdovers reviewfor more information!

This is perhaps the only time youdon’twant to be surprised by extra presents under your Christmas tree.

Had enough of the toothless holiday stories?

Gizmo wearing a Santa hat in Gremlins.

Don’t fret, an army of cuddly but demonic creatures are here to save you.

Just don’t feed them after midnight, obviously.

This horror comedy is a practical effects showcase with mischievous humor and an impressive cast.

Bruce Willis as John McClane looking through a broken window during Die Hard.

The havoc is so much fun to watch, but Gremlins is also sentimental in the right places.

Check out ourGremlins reviewfor more on one of thebest Christmas horror moviesof all time!

This legendary action flick features Bruce Willis at the height of his powers.

Omi and Krampus in Krampus.

But despite the macho qualities, it’s the story’s everyman angle that sets it apart.

John is not a superhero, he’s at the wrong place at the wrong time.

Is Die Hard a festive classic?

Jo, Meg, Amy, and Beth March in Little Women.

See if it’s on our list of thebest Christmas movies that aren’t really Christmas movies.

Krampus is the perfect introduction to Christmas horror.

The ending will stick with you, we promise.

Cate Blanchett as Carol Aird and Rooney Mara as Therese Belivet during Carol.

This adaptation of the 1868 novel is a stirring drama with fantastic performances.

It’s impossible to overstate Saoirse Ronan’s hold on Little Women.

We experience the story through her eyes, as the non-linear editing unfolds the details of her life.

Kermit the Frog in The Muppet Christmas Carol.

Read ourLittle Women reviewfor more on this must-watch!

Did you order romance?

Haynes' period piece is endlessly dreamy.

Amber Midthunder as Naru looking into the distance during the Hulu movie, Prey.

Carol’s grainy visuals, hypnotic storytelling, and the blue melancholy of longing put you in a vice.

Check out our five-starCarol reviewfor more on this modern Christmas staple.

This retelling is warm, funny, chilling, and touching.

The best Disney Plus movies: Simba, Pumbaa and Timon walking across a log during The Lion King.

You know a movie is powerful when you’re teary-eyed over green frog puppets.

For more on our top festive pick, check out ourThe Muppet Christmas Carol review.

Want more holiday recommendations?

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Head over to our lists of thebest Netflix Christmas moviesand thebest Christmas TV episodes.

Tom Hardy as Walker in Havoc, plus a police officer.

Lily Gladstone as Mollie Burkhart looking sad while sitting in court during one of the best Apple Tv movie, Killers of the Flower Moon.

Best Netflix comedy movies: Kate Hudson as Birdie Jay looking shocked at a table during the Netflix movie, Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery.

Jack Black in A Minecraft Movie

Avengers: Endgame

Reed Richards writing on a chalkboard

Ghost, Bob, Yelena, and John Walker peeking around a corner in Thunderbolts

Julia Garner in Weapons

Armageddon

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 screenshot of the Paintress painting the number 33 onto a distant pillar while Gustave and Sophie watch from the harbor port, framed by a circle of light

Absolute Martian Manhunter #2

In-game screenshots of The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered

Forza Horizon 5 screenshot of a Horizon Realms track that�s lit up in neon pink with illuminated palm trees decorating either side of the road

Once Upon a Puppet key art

Lune prepares to attack a hulking enemy Nevron in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

The cast of Thunderbolts standing in an elevator during the trailer for the upcoming Marvel Phase 5 movie.

Logan Kim as Hershel and Lauren Cohan as Maggie in The Walking Dead: Dead City season 2