Now that the holidays have arrived, there’s no better way to get into the spirit of the season than to curl up with a good film. Even though you’re already familiar with a lot of holiday classics, these undiscovered gems should be on your list of must-sees. These five holiday films, which range from touching stories to humorous adventures, are sure to make you laugh, smile, and possibly shed a tear or two.
1. 8-Bit Christmas
Synopsis: Set against the backdrop of a suburban 1980s Christmas, this film tells the story of young Jake Doyle and his relentless quest to get a Nintendo Entertainment System for Christmas. With a blend of humor, nostalgia, and family dynamics, 8-Bit Christmas captures the magic and chaos of childhood holiday dreams.
- Director: Michael Dowse
- Producer: Tim White, Trevor White, Allan Mandelbaum
- Duration: 1h 37m
- Genre: Comedy, Family
- IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
- Where to Watch: HBO Max
2. Single All the Way
Synopsis: This heartwarming holiday rom-com revolves around Peter, a perpetually single man, who convinces his best friend Nick to join him for Christmas and pretend they are a couple. As family antics unfold and truths come to light, Peter discovers that love may have been closer than he thought all along.
- Director: Michael Mayer
- Producer: Joel S. Rice, Joe Roth, Adam Anders
- Duration: 1h 41m
- Genre: Comedy, Romance
- IMDb Rating: 6.2/10
- Where to Watch: Netflix
3. Last Holiday
Synopsis: Georgia Byrd, a reserved and humble saleswoman, is shaken by a terminal diagnosis. Deciding to spend her savings on a grand European adventure, she embraces life to the fullest, touching the hearts of those she meets. Last Holiday is a tale of courage, transformation, and living without regrets.
- Director: Wayne Wang
- Producer: Laurence Mark, Jack Rapke
- Duration: 1h 52m
- Genre: Comedy, Drama
- IMDb Rating: 6.5/10
- Where to Watch: Paramount+
4. Surviving Christmas
Synopsis: Drew Latham, a wealthy but lonely man, decides to revisit his childhood home for Christmas. Finding strangers living there, he offers them money to pretend to be his family. What ensues is a humorous clash of personalities and heartfelt moments as Drew learns the true meaning of family.
- Director: Mike Mitchell
- Producer: Jenno Topping, Betty Thomas
- Duration: 1h 31m
- Genre: Comedy
- IMDb Rating: 5.4/10
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
5. Mrs. Santa Claus
Synopsis: Feeling underappreciated by her busy husband, Mrs. Claus sets out on an independent adventure to bring joy and goodwill to the people of early 1900s New York. Through music and compassion, she transforms lives and showcases her own holiday magic in this enchanting musical.
- Director: Terry Hughes
- Producer: David Shaw, Tony Adams
- Duration: 1h 32m
- Genre: Musical, Fantasy
- IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
- Where to Watch: Apple TV
Why These Films Deserve Your Attention
These films provide original viewpoints, touching tales, and lots of festive charm, even though they might not be at the top of the typical Christmas viewing lists. These flicks will make your week joyful and cheery, regardless of whether you’re feeling romantic, humorous, or nostalgic.
So, grab some hot cocoa, snuggle under a blanket, and add these hidden gems to your holiday lineup. Happy watching!