My Must-Watch Movies That Bring Festive Joy
There’s nothing quite like snuggling up with a good film to warm your spirits. While these films may not all be traditionally holiday-themed, they each embody the spirit of the season to me -and I won’t let anyone tell me otherwise! Clearly, I have a thing for both Julia Roberts and Gwyneth Paltrow, whose films have been my comforting companions through every season of life. Here are the films that always bring a bit of holiday magic to my winter nights.
A to Z: The Perfect Festive Film Line-Up
Cool Runnings
A delightful true story about an unlikely Jamaican bobsleigh team’s journey to the Winter Olympics. This one’s brimming with camaraderie, humour, and uplifting spirit, and it takes me right back to being about six years old, watching with my siblings. I can’t resist joining in on “Some people say you know they can’t believe… Jamaica we have a bobsled team!”
Drop Dead Fred
This quirky gem follows an imaginative young woman reconnecting with her cheeky imaginary friend. It’s funny, nostalgic, and a reminder of the importance of imagination. I longed for an imaginary friend when I was little! Rik Mayall is just sublime in this role.
Dunston Checks In
The playful antics of a mischievous monkey in a posh hotel make this a nostalgic treat for the whole family. My siblings and I love it, although J teases us endlessly that it wasn’t even on his radar as a child!
Home Alone & Home Alone 2: Lost in New York
No holiday season feels complete without Kevin McCallister’s adventures. These classics bring out the hilarity in festive mishaps and remind us of the importance of family. Anyone else wonder from time to time how the pigeon lady is getting on?
Jingle All the Way
This holiday comedy, featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger in the battle for the season’s most sought-after toy, perfectly captures the Christmas shopping craze. J and I both grew up with this one—one of the few films from my list he’s as enthusiastic about as I am!
Matilda (1996)
A timeless story about a remarkable girl with a sharp mind, Matilda captures the magic of kindness and resilience. It’s one I love to watch in the depths of winter, and I still cheer her on with “You can do it, Brucey!”
Miracle on 34th Street (1994)
The enduring magic of Christmas is brought to life as a department store Santa Claus helps restore faith in the impossible. Young Mara Wilson really gave us two festive classics back-to-back, didn’t she?
My Best Friend’s Wedding
Julia Roberts shines as she navigates friendship, love, and self-discovery. It’s lighthearted but packs a surprising punch. I’ll never quite get over the bittersweet ending, but isn’t that what makes it so unforgettable?
Notting Hill
This London-set romantic comedy captures a bit of everyday magic with its wit and charm. I only watched this a few years ago, but Julia Roberts is irresistible here. Notting Hill’s beauty and warmth make it an instant favourite.
Serendipity
A romantic tale of fate and life’s beautiful coincidences, Serendipity is perfect for the season. This film’s love of the rom-com format is delightful, and on quiet nights, I still find myself craning to see if I can spot the constellation Cassiopeia.
Sister Act & Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit
Whoopi Goldberg’s portrayal of a singer-turned-nun is infused with joy, laughter, and soulful music. Lauryn Hill is electric, and her performance of His Eye Is on the Sparrow left such an impact that I have an excerpt permanently etched on me.
Sleepless in Seattle
Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan are magic together in this story of love and connection. I’ve loved Tom Hanks in every role he’s played, but watching him here, so young and in his element, really makes you appreciate his incredible talent.
Sliding Doors
A thought-provoking look at fate and life’s endless possibilities, Sliding Doors is great for a bit of holiday introspection. It’s in my top three films of all time, reminding me how one choice can change everything.
Soul Food (1997)
A heartwarming celebration of family and tradition, Soul Food is perfect for the season and makes the drama in my own family look tame. Its message of family bonds is just what the holidays are about.
The Holiday
With Kate Winslet, Jude Law, and Cameron Diaz, this charming tale of home swaps offers the cosiest escape. I can’t get over Kate’s character’s picture-perfect cottage—one day I’d love to take a solo winter break in a similar retreat, tea in hand, a book in the other, with a chilled dog curled up on my lap.
The Parent Trap
Lindsay Lohan’s double performance still blows my mind to this day! This one’s an absolute charmer for family nights. I always get a bit teary when I think of Natasha Richardson, whose son once shared that she was just like her character in The Parent Trap. What a legacy.
The Perfect Holiday
This story of a mother’s Christmas wish coming true is the ideal romance for the season, with all the festive emotions to bring out the tissues. It’s a cultural classic that I return to every year.
The Preacher’s Wife
With Whitney Houston’s stunning voice and a story of faith, love, and community, The Preacher’s Wife is a holiday gem. The mix of sweet farce and deep sentiment—plus seeing Denzel Washington making snow angels —makes it a firm festive favourite of mine.
This list of films is filled with nostalgia, charm, and warmth. Whether you’re watching solo with a steaming mug of tea or gathering around with family, these films are sure to create new memories and add warmth to your holiday season.
