Looking for a great Christmas movie? Netflix has some of the best ones available to stream right now. Get cozy on the couch and enjoy these festive films.
Looking for the best Christmas movies to watch on Netflix? Look no further! We've compiled a list of the top 12 Christmas flicks available on the streaming site. And don't worry, we're focusing specifically on movies, so sorry Dash & Lily fans, that series didn't make the cut. But regardless, happy watching!
A Boy Called Christmas (2021)
Synopsis: "A regular young boy named Nikolas embarks on a journey to the icy north to find his father, who is on a mission to locate the legendary village of the elves, Elfhelm. Accompanied by a spirited reindeer named Blitzen and a devoted pet mouse, Nikolas encounters his fate."
Jingle Jangle (2020)
A Boy Called Christmas is a charming modern fairy tale, brought to the screen with a stellar and surprisingly star-studded cast. The film boasts wonderful visuals and delivers a heartfelt message about the true spirit of Christmas.
Synopsis: After being betrayed by his apprentice, a toy maker's life takes a turn when his granddaughter comes to visit. Jingle Jangle is a heartwarming family film with a perfect blend of comedy and emotion, that is sure to be enjoyed by both adults and children.
Carol (2015)
Synopsis: "In 1950s Manhattan, aspiring photographer Therese crosses paths with the elegant and alluring Carol while she is admiring the doll displays in a department store. Their quick connection blossoms into a complex love with far-reaching implications."
The Christmas Chronicles Franchise (2018-2020)
When considering Todd Haynes' body of work, it's impossible to overlook the impact of Carol, despite its absence from the lineup of Netflix Christmas originals. This film is the perfect choice for those who prefer a more subdued holiday viewing experience. With the exceptional performances of Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara, this period piece delivers all the expected drama and complex characters.
Summary: "Siblings Kate and Teddy Pierce come up with a plan to capture Santa Claus on Christmas Eve, but their scheme goes wrong. They end up teaming up with Santa and his elves to save the holiday. Starring Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn, and directed by Christopher Columbus, this Netflix Christmas movie has a surprising edge and more to offer than expected."
Love Actually (2003)
Synopsis: "Nine interwoven tales delve into the intricacies of the universal emotion that binds us all: love. The cast of characters includes David, the charming newly appointed British prime minister who finds himself smitten with a young junior staffer, Sarah, a graphic designer whose commitment to her mentally unstable brother complicates her romantic relationships, and Harry, a married man tempted by his alluring new secretary."
A Christmas Prince Franchise (2017-2019)
Love Actually might not appeal to every viewer, as some of its numerous storylines may not have aged well. However, it has undeniably cemented its status as an iconic Christmas classic. With a talented ensemble cast and a nostalgic early 2000s atmosphere, it's worth watching and getting emotional over the memorable Joni Mitchell scene.
"A young journalist is sent undercover to investigate a playboy prince who is set to become king in the lead up to Christmas." We believe that "A Christmas Prince" may be a guilty pleasure for some, but it deserves recognition for being the film that kick-started the genre of Netflix original Christmas movies. With its use of well-known tropes such as fictional European countries, politics intertwined with Christmas, and main pairings lacking chemistry, the Christmas Prince movies are still worth watching, if only for their flaws.
Love Hard (2021)
What it’s about: “After meeting her perfect match on a dating app, an L.A. writer learns she’s been catfished when she flies 3,000 miles to surprise him for Christmas.”
The Knight Before Christmas (2019)
This holiday rom-com presents an unexpected pair with a woman and her catfisher, resulting in a delightful and comedic Netflix Christmas film. While Nina Dobrev may draw in Vampire Diaries fans, the movie also features a fantastic ensemble of talented actors.
"A medieval knight is transported to the present day and falls for a high school science teacher who has lost her belief in love. This Netflix Christmas movie offers pure escapist wish fulfillment with its quirky yet charming plot and actors. Despite its fantastical elements, it remains a sweet romcom that is yet to receive a sequel."
Klaus (2019)
Synopsis: "Having established himself as the least successful student at the academy, a postal worker is dispatched to a remote, icy town in the North, where he encounters a solitary toy maker named Klaus."
Let it Snow (2019)
Considered the highest-rated Netflix original movie with a 95% Critics’ Score on Rotten Tomatoes, this Christmas animated feature was truly a surprise success upon its initial release. Boasting the talented voices of Jason Schwartzman, J. K. Simmons, and Rashida Jones, Klaus delivers yet another compelling origin story of the holiday season.
Plot Summary: When a snowstorm unexpectedly descends upon a small midwestern town on Christmas Eve, a group of high school students are brought together. As their friendships and love lives collide, the events that unfold will ultimately change their lives forever by Christmas morning. Our perspective: This film is a hidden treasure, set in a cozy small town with a talented cast of young actors. While not everyone may be a fan of ensemble movies, this one captures the drama and wonder of the holiday season in a compelling and authentic way.
The Princess Switch Franchise (2018-2021)
Synopsis: "A week before Christmas, a duchess and an ordinary woman from Chicago, who are lookalikes, decide to switch lives and end up falling for each other's romantic partners."
Dolly Parton’s Christmas on the Square (2020)
The Princess Switch took inspiration from the Christmas Prince franchise, but arguably outshined it by embracing the campiness of Vanessa Hudgens portraying two – and then three – versions of herself. The festive setting and the presence of the evil triplet are the highlights of these movies, especially when she finds her own romance in the third installment.
"A woman's intention to sell a small town without considering its residents changes when she experiences a miraculous visit."
In our opinion, this musical twist on a Christmas Carol story, featuring memorable songs and a delightful cast including Jenifer Lewis and Christine Baranski, offers a generous dose of heart and drama.
Merry Christmas, and Happy Holidays! For more of our Netflix content, click here, and for more of our Movies & TV content, click here.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z netizen, I'm excited to see Netflix's lineup of Christmas films this year! The streaming service has become a go-to destination for holiday entertainment, and I'm looking forward to checking out some of the new releases, like "A Boy Called Christmas" and "Love Hard." I'm also a big fan of classic Christmas movies, so I'm glad to see that Netflix is still offering some of the old favorites, like "Love Actually" and "Carol."
Overall, I think Netflix has a great selection of Christmas movies to offer this year. There's something for everyone, from heartwarming family films to romantic comedies to classic holiday favorites. I'm sure I'll be spending a lot of time in front of the TV this holiday season, enjoying all that Netflix has to offer!