When it comes to Christmas movies, there is no shortage of beloved classics. Films like “Home Alone,” “Elf,” and “The Polar Express” light up our screens year after year, bringing warmth and nostalgia to our hearts. But besides the well-known Christmas movies that everyone knows and loves, there are other underrated Christmas movies waiting for their moment in the spotlight.
If you're bored with the usual lineup and crave something cozy and new this December, look no further. These lesser-known films offer a unique take on the festive mood, from heartfelt family dramas to quirky romantic comedies that deliver laughs and life lessons in equal measure.
Grab your favorite blanket, pour yourself a cup of hot cocoa, and get ready to discover five of the best underrated Christmas movies. These are available on streaming services like Netflix and Max, and you can get them now at a huge discount with a Cyber Monday streaming deal.
I recently watched “Last Christmas” and I must say I was genuinely surprised. This romantic comedy-drama weaves together themes of love, redemption, and self-discovery against the backdrop of holiday season London. Emilia Clarke stars as Kate, a young woman whose life seems to be spiraling out of control.
Working as an elf in a Christmas store all year round, Kate is plagued by bad decisions, strained relationships, and the aftereffects of a nearly fatal illness. Cynical and lost, she meets Tom (Henry Golding), a charming and mysterious man with an optimistic outlook on life. His uplifting spirit forces Kate to confront her own insecurities and reassess her choices, and as their bond deepens, Kate begins to reconnect with her family and friends and rediscover the joy of living.
Watch with Max
“Scrooged” may be a classic for some, but I still think it is underrated. The film follows Frank Cross (Bill Murray), a cynical, self-absorbed television executive who has lost sight of humanity and the true meaning of Christmas. Frank is the ultimate 1980s Ebenezer Scrooge, a ruthless workaholic obsessed with ratings and profits. He is in charge of the live broadcast of “A Christmas Carol” on Christmas Eve, and treats his staff, his family, and even his ex-girlfriend Claire (Karen Allen) with contempt.
On Christmas Eve, Frank's life takes a supernatural turn when he is visited by three eccentric ghosts. The Ghost of Christmas Past takes Frank on a journey from his childhood to the beginning of his career and reveals why he has become so cold-hearted. The Ghost of Christmas Present shows the impact of his actions on those around him, including his faithful assistant Grace and her struggling family. Finally, the Ghost of Christmas in the Future tells us that if Frank does not change, a lonely and forlorn fate awaits him.
Watch on Prime Video
“Let It Snow” is one of those Christmas movies I rewatch every year. A heartwarming holiday romantic comedy set in a small snowy town on Christmas Eve, it is a charming depiction of teenage life during the holidays.
The film follows several characters, each with their own struggles. Julie (Isabella Merced) meets an enigmatic pop star named Stuart (Shameik Moore), and as she takes him around town for the day, an unlikely connection is made. Meanwhile, best friends Tobin (Mitchell Hope) and Angie, aka Duke (Kiernan Shipka), navigate their feelings for each other when their friendship begins to blossom into something more.
Elsewhere, Adi (Odeya Rush) struggles with relationship insecurities and Keon (Jacob Batalon) dreams of throwing the ultimate Christmas party at a local diner. Amidst the snowball fights, awkward confessions, and festivities, the characters learn important lessons about love, loyalty, and the importance of being true to oneself.
Watch on Netflix
In the mood for a comedy without romance. Next up to watch this Christmas season is The Night Before. Ethan (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), Isaac (Seth Rogen), and Chris (Anthony Mackie) are three childhood friends who celebrate Christmas Eve together. Their lives have changed over the years, with Isaac preparing to become a father and Chris gaining new fame as a professional athlete, but they continue to stick to their annual Christmas celebration.
For years, the trio has partied together in New York City, trying to find the perfect, wild night to cap off their Christmas tradition. But this year is different: Ethan is struggling with the recent loss of his parents, Isaac is facing the responsibilities of fatherhood, and Chris is battling the pressures of success. To make this Christmas Eve extra special, they seek out the legendary “Nutcracker Ball,” the ultimate holiday party that promises an unforgettable night.
View on Starz
“Love Hard” is a must-see film this holiday season that blends holiday cheer with modern dating mishaps. Natalie (Nina Dobrev), a young woman living in Los Angeles, is having trouble finding love after repeatedly being disappointed in her online dating life. When she meets an attractive man named Josh (Jimmy O. Yang) on a dating app, she falls in love with his witty messages and profile picture. Excited to meet him in person, Natalie heads to his hometown of Lake Placid, NY for a romantic holiday surprise.
Upon arrival, however, she discovers that Josh has been using other people's photos and that he is much less attractive than he appears online. To complicate matters, Josh admits that he has been impersonating his friend Tag (Darren Barnett). Tag is the best looking guy in town, but he has no intention of dating Natalie. In order to win Natalie's heart and redeem himself, Josh pretends to be a couple with Natalie in front of his family to get her interested in him.
Watch on Netflix
.
Comments