Get ready for a cozy and heartwarming holiday season with these seven festive and funny Christmas movies that will warm your heart and remind you of the true meaning of the holidays.
As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to prepare for the annual tradition of curling up on the couch with a cup of hot cocoa and indulging in heartwarming Christmas movies. This year, the lineup is filled with delightful tales of love, family, and the magic of the season. From Netflix to Hallmark, these films offer a perfect blend of nostalgia, humor, and holiday cheer. So, grab your favorite blanket and get ready to be transported into a world of Yuletide joy with these must-watch Christmas movies of 2023.
Best. Christmas. Ever! (now available on Netflix)
A heartwarming tale of friendship and self-discovery
In “Best. Christmas. Ever!”, two former college friends find themselves stranded together by a snowstorm. Charlotte, played by Heather Graham, leads an average life, while Jackie, portrayed by Brandy Norwood, paints a picture-perfect existence in her annual Christmas letters. As the two friends spend time together, Charlotte begins to uncover the flaws behind Jackie’s seemingly perfect life. This film is a refreshing take on the self-aggrandizing nature of Christmas letters and reminds us of the importance of authenticity and genuine connections during the holiday season.
Genie (now available on Peacock)
Melissa McCarthy grants wishes in this magical Christmas comedy
From the brilliant mind of Richard Curtis, the writer of “Love Actually,” comes “Genie.” This time, Melissa McCarthy takes on the role of a magical genie who emerges from an old jewelry box to grant wishes to an auction assistant, played by Paapa Essiedu. As he navigates the challenges of his thankless job and missing his daughter’s birthday, McCarthy’s character brings laughter and joy into his life. With Curtis’ signature blend of humor and heartfelt moments, “Genie” is a must-watch for fans of feel-good Christmas movies.
A Biltmore Christmas (8 p.m. Nov. 26, Hallmark)
A time-traveling romance set in the enchanting Biltmore Estate
For a Thanksgiving weekend treat, “A Biltmore Christmas” takes viewers on a visually stunning journey to the historic Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina. Bethany Joy Lenz stars as a contemporary screenwriter working on a remake of a Christmas classic filmed at the estate. Through a magical twist of fate, she is transported back to the original set in 1947, where she meets a charming actor, portrayed by Kristoffer Polaha. As their romance blossoms, the screenwriter must correct the problems she inadvertently causes before returning to the present day. This creative spin on a meet-cute formula is a delightful escape into a world of timeless love and holiday magic.
Family Switch (premieres Nov. 30 on Netflix)
A hilarious Christmas comedy about a family’s body-swapping adventure
In “Family Switch,” Jennifer Garner and Ed Helms star as Jess and Bill Walker, a mom and dad who mysteriously switch identities with their two teenage children. If that wasn’t chaotic enough, their baby boy also swaps bodies with the family dog. Blaming the mix-up on a special astrologer, played by the legendary Rita Moreno, the Walkers navigate the challenges of living in each other’s shoes on a crucial day in their lives. Directed by McG, known for his work on “Charlie’s Angels,” this film is a laugh-out-loud comedy that explores the importance of empathy and understanding within a family.
Candy Cane Lane (premieres Dec. 1 on Amazon Prime Video)
Eddie Murphy brings holiday chaos to a sunny California neighborhood
In “Candy Cane Lane,” Eddie Murphy stars as Chris Carver, a father in sunny California who becomes consumed with winning a neighborhood holiday decorating contest. However, his ambitions lead to chaos when he makes a deal with an elf, played by Jillian Bell, who unleashes a spell that causes mayhem. With a stellar supporting cast including Robin Thede, Chris Redd, Nick Offerman, and Tracee Ellis Ross, this film is a hilarious and heartwarming tale of the ups and downs of holiday spirit.
Ladies of the ‘80s: A Divas Christmas (8 p.m. Dec. 2, Lifetime)
’80s soap opera divas reunite for a Christmas matchmaking extravaganza
In “Ladies of the ‘80s: A Divas Christmas,” five iconic soap opera actresses from the 1980s come together to film the last Christmas episode of their long-running show. Loni Anderson, Linda Gray, Morgan Fairchild, Donna Mills, and Nicollette Sheridan put their egos aside to play matchmakers for their producer and director, who are destined for each other. This star-studded film is a nostalgic trip down memory lane, filled with the glamour and drama of ’80s television and the timeless magic of Christmas.
Heaven Down Here (8 p.m. Dec. 14, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries)
A heartwarming tale of hope and connection set in a snowed-in diner
“We could use a little more heaven down here,” sings country music star Mickey Guyton in her ballad that inspired this touching story. “Heaven Down Here” follows four individuals who find themselves trapped inside a diner on Christmas Eve due to a blizzard. As they share their stories and struggles, they form a deep connection and renew their hopes for the future. With a talented cast led by Krystal Joy Brown and featuring the legendary Phylicia Rashad, this film reminds us of the power of human connection and the miracles that can happen during the holiday season.
Conclusion:
This holiday season, immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas with these heartwarming and entertaining movies. From tales of friendship and self-discovery to time-traveling romances and hilarious family adventures, these films capture the spirit of the season and remind us of the importance of love, family, and hope. So, grab your loved ones, a warm blanket, and get ready for a cozy and joyful Christmas movie marathon that will leave you with a heart full of holiday cheer.
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