There’s something about watching a great winter movie that just makes the season feel more festive. Maybe it’s the snow-covered scenery, the heartwarming (or heartbreaking) storylines, or the overall sense of coziness that comes with curlIng up on the couch with a blanket and a big bowl of popcorn.
Whatever the reason, we can all agree that there’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than by watching a classic Christmas movie or one of these new favorites. So grab some hot cocoa, cozy up under a blanket, and press play on one of these 10 best winter movies.
Top 10 Winter Movies to Watch
No matter how you feel about winter, there’s no denying that it’s a great time to curl up with a good movie. If you’re in the mood for something heartwarming, funny, or just plain enjoyable, we’ve got you covered with our list of the best winter movies to watch right now.
1. Elf
This modern holiday classic follows Buddy (played by Will Ferrell), a human who was raised at the North Pole by elves. When he learns the truth about his identity, Buddy sets off for New York City in search of his father and spreads Christmas cheer along the way. Elf is the perfect movie for anyone who loves Christmas, enjoys a good laugh, or just wants to feel good during the cold winter months.
2. The Polar Express
Based on the beloved children’s book, The Polar Express tells the story of a young boy who takes a magical train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Along the way, he learns about the true meaning of Christmas and belief. The movie is a visual treat, with stunning animation that will transport you to a winter wonderland. It’s also sure to fill you with holiday cheer and leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside.
3. A Christmas Story
This timeless holiday classic follows Ralphie Parker (played by Peter Billingsley) as he tries to convince his family, friends, and Santa Claus that he deserves a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. A Christmas Story is the perfect movie for anyone who loves nostalgia, enjoys a good laugh, or is just looking for a feel-good film to watch during the holidays.
4. It’s a Wonderful Life
Considered by many to be one of the greatest films ever made, It’s a Wonderful Life tells the story of George Bailey (played by James Stewart), a man who is contemplating suicide on Christmas Eve. Through a series of events, he learns that his life has had a profound impact on those around him and that even the darkest times can lead to something good. It’s a Wonderful Life is an emotional rollercoaster of a movie that will leave you feeling grateful for your own life and all that it has to offer.
5. Miracle on 34th Street
Miracle on 34th Street is the classic story of a department store Santa who claims to be the real Kris Kringle. When he is put on trial to prove his identity, everyone around him starts to believe in the magic of Christmas. It’s a heartwarming tale that is sure to fill you with holiday cheer and leave you believing in the power of Santa Claus.
6. The Nightmare Before Christmas
This unique holiday movie comes from the mind of Tim Burton and tells the story of Jack Skellington, the “Pumpkin King” of Halloween Town. When he becomes bored with Halloween, Jack discovers Christmas Town and decides to take over the holiday. But things don’t quite go as planned and Jack learns that Christmas is about more than just presents and decorations. The Nightmare Before Christmas is a dark, yet charming movie that is perfect for anyone who loves Burton’s style or is looking for something different to watch during the holidays.
7. Home Alone
When an 8-year-old boy accidentally gets left home alone while his family goes on vacation, he has to defend his home against two burglars. Home Alone is a hilarious movie that will have you laughing out loud, but it also has a heartwarming message about family and the meaning of Christmas. It’s the perfect holiday film for anyone who loves to laugh or wants to feel nostalgic for their own childhood Christmases.
8. White Christmas
This classic holiday film stars Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera-Ellen as a group of performers who team up to put on a Christmas show in Vermont. While there, they fall in love with a pair of sisters (played by Clooney and Ellen) and help save their family’s inn from bankruptcy. White Christmas is the perfect movie for anyone who loves musicals, enjoys watching old-fashioned holiday movies, or just wants to feel cozy and warm during the winter months.
9. Die Hard
Die Hard may not be a traditional Christmas movie, but it takes place during the holidays and is set against the backdrop of one of the most festive times of year. When terrorists take over a Los Angeles high-rise on Christmas Eve, it’s up to John McClane (played by Bruce Willis) to save the day. Die Hard is an action-packed movie that is perfect for anyone who loves a good thriller or wants to watch something different during the holidays.
10. Elf
Elf is the story of Buddy (played by Will Ferrell), a human who was raised at the North Pole by elves. When he learns that he is not actually an elf, Buddy sets out for New York City in search of his father. Along the way, he learns about the true meaning of Christmas and spreads holiday cheer to everyone he meets. Elf is a charming, funny movie that is perfect for anyone who loves Ferrell’s comedic style or is looking for a feel-good movie to watch during the holidays.
