“Christmas movies” typically refer to films that are centered around the theme of Christmas or take place during the holiday season. These movies often capture the spirit of Christmas, featuring festive decorations, traditions, and themes of love, family, and goodwill. Christmas movies come in various genres, including comedy, drama, romance, and animation, and they are often enjoyed by people during the holiday season as a way to get into the festive mood.
Here are five Christmas movies that are more suitable for adults and can be enjoyed after the kids go to bed:
Love Actually (2003)
| Release Date | September 7, 2003 |
| Star Cast | Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson, Colin Firth, Laura Linney, Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, Keira Knightley, Martine McCutcheon |
| Rating | R |
| Genres | Comedy |
“Love Actually” is a romantic comedy film that tells multiple love stories during the Christmas season in London. The movie follows several characters, each dealing with their own challenges and joys in love.
There’s a recently elected British Prime Minister who falls for a member of his staff, a writer who discovers his best friend’s wife has feelings for him, a young man who travels to the United States in pursuit of love, and more. The film explores different aspects of love, including unrequited love, unexpected connections, and the warmth of human relationships during the festive holiday period. Ultimately, “Love Actually” is a heartwarming and humorous portrayal of love in its various forms.
Die Hard (1988)
| Release Date | July 22,1988 |
| Star Cast | Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman, Bonnie Bedelia, Paul Gleason, William Atherton, Hart Bochner, James Shigeta |
| Rating | R |
| Genres | Action/Thriller |
“Die Hard” is an action film that takes place during Christmas. The story follows John McClane, a New York City police officer who travels to Los Angeles to reconcile with his estranged wife, Holly, at her workplace, Nakatomi Plaza. While attending a Christmas party at the building, a group of terrorists led by Hans Gruber takes everyone hostage.
McClane manages to evade capture and becomes the only hope for the hostages. He uses his skills to outsmart the terrorists and communicate with the police outside. As the action unfolds, McClane engages in a cat-and-mouse game with Gruber, who has a plan to steal millions in bearer bonds. The movie combines intense action, suspense, and a bit of humor, making it a classic action film set against the backdrop of a Christmas celebration.
Bad Santa (2003)
| Release Date | November 26, 2003 |
| Star Cast | Billy Bob Thornton, Tony Cox, Lauren Graham, Brett Kelly, Lauren Tom, John Ritter, Bernie Mac |
| Rating | R |
| Genres | Comedy/Thriller |
“Bad Santa” is a dark comedy film about a conman named Willie T. Stokes who, along with his partner Marcus, poses as Santa Claus and his elf to rob department stores on Christmas Eve. Willie, who is an alcoholic and generally miserable, takes on the Santa gig to gain access to the stores and their safes.
Things take an unexpected turn when Willie befriends a young boy named Thurman Merman and forms a unique connection with him. As the story unfolds, Willie’s plans become more complicated, and his interactions with Thurman bring about some unexpected and heartwarming moments. Despite its irreverent and crude humor, “Bad Santa” explores themes of redemption and unlikely friendships during the holiday season.
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
| Release Date | December 1, 1989 |
| Star Cast | Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, Randy Quaid, Juliette Lewis, Diane Ladd, Randy Quaid |
| Rating | PG-13 |
| Genres | Comedy |
“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” is a comedy film about the Griswold family and their attempts to have a perfect Christmas. Clark Griswold wants to create the best holiday experience for his family, complete with festive decorations and a grand celebration.
However, things quickly go awry as a series of comedic and chaotic events unfold. Clark encounters numerous challenges, including malfunctioning Christmas lights, unexpected family guests, and a disastrous Christmas dinner. Despite the mishaps, the Griswold family perseveres through the chaos and comes together to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas – family and togetherness.
The film is known for its humorous take on the challenges and absurdities often associated with holiday celebrations, making it a beloved Christmas comedy.
The Holiday (2006)
| Release Date | February 9, 2007 |
| Star Cast | Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, Jack Black, Eli Wallach, Edward Burns, Rufus Sewell |
| Rating | PG-13 |
| Genres | Comedy/Romance |
“The Holiday” is a romantic comedy film about two women, Iris and Amanda, who decide to swap homes for the Christmas holiday. Iris lives in England and writes for a wedding column, while Amanda resides in Los Angeles and owns a successful business.
Both women are dealing with relationship troubles and decide to take a break by exchanging houses. While in their respective new locations, they unexpectedly find love. Iris befriends a charming composer, while Amanda connects with Iris’s brother. The movie explores themes of love, self-discovery, and the magic of the holiday season. With a mix of humor and heartwarming moments, “The Holiday” is a feel-good romantic comedy set against the backdrop of Christmas.
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