12 Heartwarming Holiday Movies to Start Watching Early
As the air gets cooler and the days shorter, it is the perfect time to start watching holiday movies. These films bring joy, laughter, and plenty of festive cheer. From feel-good classics to heartwarming stories, each movie has its own charm. The best part is, you do not have to wait until December to start enjoying them. Get into the holiday spirit early with these unforgettable movies.
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Home Alone
Home Alone is a timeless holiday favorite that never fails to bring laughter and joy. The story follows a young boy named Kevin, who is accidentally left behind by his family during Christmas vacation. As two burglars attempt to rob his house, Kevin uses his wit and creativity to set up hilarious and clever traps to protect his home. This movie is filled with holiday spirit, humor, and heartfelt moments, making it a perfect watch for anyone looking to get into the festive mood early.
The charm of Home Alone lies not only in its comedic moments but also in its themes of family and togetherness. Kevin’s journey from being neglected to becoming a hero reminds us of the importance of loved ones, especially during the holidays. The movie continues to be a favorite for all ages, thanks to its blend of slapstick humor and heartwarming lessons. Watching this movie is a great way to kick off the season and remind yourself of the importance of family and home.
The Polar Express
The Polar Express brings the magic of Christmas to life with its stunning animation and heartwarming story. Based on the beloved children’s book, the movie follows a young boy who takes a magical train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. The journey is filled with enchanting adventures, memorable characters, and moments that capture the spirit of belief and wonder. The animation, paired with a compelling soundtrack, makes this movie a visually stunning experience.
Beyond its visual appeal, The Polar Express reminds viewers of the power of imagination and the joy of the holiday season. The film’s message encourages both children and adults to keep the magic of Christmas alive in their hearts. With Tom Hanks lending his voice to multiple characters, the film is rich in warmth and sentiment. This movie is ideal for families to watch together, offering a delightful mix of adventure and nostalgia.
Love Actually
Love Actually is a heartwarming romantic comedy set during the holiday season, focusing on the lives of several couples navigating the ups and downs of love. Set in London, the film features a star-studded cast and intertwining storylines that revolve around love, loss, and new beginnings. Each character brings something unique to the film, making it a touching and relatable exploration of human relationships. With its perfect blend of humor and emotion, it has become a staple holiday movie.
What makes Love Actually stand out is its ability to capture the variety of love stories that exist, from unrequited love to family bonds. Its holiday setting and themes of connection remind viewers of the importance of love during the festive season. The soundtrack, featuring unforgettable Christmas songs, helps create an atmosphere of warmth and cheer. Watching Love Actually will leave you feeling uplifted and appreciative of those around you, making it a great movie for early holiday viewing.
Elf
Elf is a lighthearted and joyful holiday film that has become an instant classic since its release. The story follows Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole, who embarks on a journey to New York City to find his real father. As Buddy spreads Christmas cheer in the big city, his childlike wonder and infectious enthusiasm bring warmth to everyone he meets. Will Ferrell’s performance as Buddy is charming and hilarious, making the movie a must-watch for fans of holiday comedies.
Elf’s message of family and the power of kindness shines through in every scene. The movie balances humor and sentiment with ease, leaving viewers laughing and feeling good. Buddy’s innocence and his quest to make others believe in the magic of Christmas is both heartwarming and funny. Whether you are watching it for the first time or the tenth, Elf will always bring a smile to your face.
The Santa Clause
The Santa Clause is a delightful holiday film that brings a unique twist to the classic Santa Claus story. When a man named Scott Calvin accidentally causes Santa Claus to fall from his roof, he finds himself magically transformed into Santa. As Scott adjusts to his new role, he learns the importance of family, belief, and spreading holiday cheer. Tim Allen’s portrayal of Scott is both humorous and endearing, making this film a holiday favorite for families.
The Santa Clause is a fun and imaginative movie that highlights the magic of Christmas in a refreshing way. Its charming storyline and engaging characters resonate with both children and adults. The film also introduces the idea of taking on new responsibilities, showing how Scott grows into his new role as Santa. With its mix of comedy and heart, The Santa Clause is an ideal choice for early holiday viewing.
It’s a Wonderful Life
It’s a Wonderful Life is a timeless holiday classic that has captured the hearts of viewers for generations. The story follows George Bailey, a man who, on Christmas Eve, contemplates the value of his life and wishes he had never been born. Through the intervention of his guardian angel, George gets to see the impact he has had on the lives of others. This emotional and uplifting film is a beautiful reminder of the power of community, kindness, and hope.
The movie’s heartfelt message about the importance of life’s simple moments resonates with audiences year after year. Its classic scenes, including the iconic “Every time a bell rings, an angel gets its wings” moment, have become part of holiday traditions. It’s a Wonderful Life offers a perfect balance of humor, drama, and inspiration, making it an essential holiday film. Watching this movie early in the season will fill you with gratitude and a sense of connection to those around you.
A Christmas Carol (2009)
A Christmas Carol, the 2009 animated adaptation starring Jim Carrey, brings Charles Dickens’s classic holiday tale to life in stunning 3D animation. The story follows Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man who is visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve. Through these visits, Scrooge is shown the error of his ways and given the chance to change his heart before it is too late. This version of A Christmas Carol is visually spectacular and features Carrey’s dynamic performance in multiple roles.
The film’s exploration of redemption, compassion, and the holiday spirit is powerful and emotional. While it is a darker adaptation of the story, it remains true to the themes of the original novella. A Christmas Carol offers a great opportunity to reflect on the importance of kindness and generosity, which are central to the holiday season. With its stunning visuals and meaningful story, this movie is a great way to set the mood for the holidays.
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
Miracle on 34th Street is a classic holiday film that has been enchanting viewers since its release in 1947. The story centers around Kris Kringle, an elderly man who claims to be the real Santa Claus, and his efforts to prove his identity in a New York City court. The film’s heartwarming themes of belief, innocence, and the magic of Christmas have made it a beloved favorite for generations. Its simple, yet powerful message about the importance of hope and trust makes it perfect for early holiday viewing.
Miracle on 34th Street captures the joy and wonder of the holiday season in a way that resonates with both children and adults. Its memorable characters and moments continue to bring smiles to viewers of all ages. The movie encourages us to believe in the impossible and reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas. Watching this film will fill you with the kind of warmth and optimism that the holiday season is all about.
The Holiday
The Holiday is a charming romantic comedy set during the Christmas season, focusing on two women who swap homes to escape their personal troubles. Iris, from England, and Amanda, from California, find themselves in beautiful new surroundings and develop unexpected relationships. The film is full of heartfelt moments, sweet romance, and holiday cheer, making it a perfect feel-good movie to watch. It combines a beautiful setting, strong performances, and a lighthearted script for an enjoyable holiday experience.
At its core, The Holiday is about second chances and the importance of taking risks for love and happiness. The film’s themes of renewal and personal growth are explored against the backdrop of Christmas magic, making it both festive and inspiring. The chemistry between the characters and the beautiful holiday settings make this a perfect choice for anyone looking to feel cozy and romantic during the holidays. Watching this film will leave you with a smile and a renewed belief in the possibilities of love.
The Muppet Christmas Carol
The Muppet Christmas Carol is a delightful musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’s classic tale, featuring the beloved Muppets in the roles of classic characters. Michael Caine stars as Ebenezer Scrooge, with Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, and the rest of the Muppets bringing their charm and humor to the story. The film stays true to the original storyline while adding its own whimsical touches, making it a fun, family-friendly version of the timeless tale. The music, humor, and heartwarming moments make it a holiday favorite for all ages.
The Muppet Christmas Carol brings a unique energy to the familiar story of Scrooge’s redemption. The Muppets’ comedic antics balance out the more serious moments, creating a perfect combination of humor and emotion. The catchy songs, memorable performances, and festive atmosphere make this movie a perfect holiday treat. It is a wonderful way to introduce younger audiences to the classic tale while keeping things entertaining for adults.
Arthur Christmas
Arthur Christmas is an animated holiday film that explores the high-tech world of Santa Claus and his family. The story follows Arthur, Santa’s clumsy but kind-hearted son, who embarks on a mission to deliver a present that was accidentally missed on Christmas Eve. The movie combines humor, adventure, and heart to create a modern holiday classic. Its charming animation and lovable characters make it a standout film for all ages.
Arthur Christmas shows the importance of family, teamwork, and never giving up, even when things seem impossible. The film’s clever take on the Santa Claus legend is both imaginative and fun, offering a fresh perspective on the holiday season. The dynamic between the characters, especially Arthur and his father, brings a deeper emotional layer to the film. This movie is a fantastic choice for families looking for a modern holiday adventure.
The Best Man Holiday
The Best Man Holiday is a heartwarming film about a group of old college friends who reunite over the holiday season. The film explores themes of friendship, love, and personal growth, making it a perfect choice for those looking for a holiday movie with a little more depth. As the friends reconnect, they face old conflicts and new challenges, all while celebrating the holidays together. With a strong cast and plenty of emotional moments, it’s an ideal film for anyone looking to enjoy the spirit of Christmas with a touch of drama.
The Best Man Holiday offers a mix of humor, heart, and holiday cheer, making it a great watch for those who enjoy heartfelt stories about relationships and personal growth. The film’s focus on the importance of friendship and family is a perfect fit for the holiday season. With its mix of lighthearted moments and emotional depth, this movie is a great addition to your early holiday movie lineup. Whether you’re in the mood for laughter or a tear-jerker, this film offers something for everyone.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.