A Cozy, Cliché, and Comforting Holiday Movie Watchlist
Around this time every year, I completely confuse the streaming service algorithms with an abrupt left turn from mystery thrillers and period dramas to fuzzy, cozy, painfully cliché (and, let’s be honest, five-star, no-notes) holiday films. Somewhere, a Netflix employee is probably wondering if my account got hacked.
For those of us in this very niche Venn diagram—people who live for British crime dramas and love watching Iris slam the door in Jasper’s face—I’ve curated a holiday movie watchlist just for us.
For Your Watchlist
While You Were Sleeping – Because nothing says holiday romance like pretending to be someone’s fiancé. Plus, Sandra Bullock is a national treasure.
The Family Stone – A festive reminder that families are a mix of love, chaos, and awkward moments—especially at Christmas dinner.
Little Women (94) – The perfect mix of family love, ambition, and cozy winter scenes. Watch for the timeless sisterhood, the heartbreaking moments, and of course, that Christmas scene.
Klaus – A surprisingly touching animated film that might just change how you see Santa’s origin story. Spoiler: It’s a tearjerker
Elf – For when you need a reminder that joy can be found in syrup-covered spaghetti and an unwavering belief in Christmas spirit.
The Holiday – For when you need to channel cozy cottage vibes or fantasize about swapping lives for Christmas.
Serendipity – A classic 'destiny meets chaos' holiday romance. It’s a feel-good tale of fate, snowflakes, and a lot of awkwardly timed coincidences.
The Preacher’s Wife – Denzel Washington as an angel sent to help a struggling family? Yes, please. Bonus points for Whitney Houston magic.
Miracle on 34th Street (1947) – The ultimate Christmas classic about the real Santa, reminding us all that maybe, just maybe, we could use a little more belief in the world.
You’ve Got Mail – For when you need a mix of nostalgic rom-com goodness, bookstore charm, and a dash of winter magic.
Last Christmas – For when you need to fall in love while simultaneously questioning your life choices. Plus, George Michael’s soundtrack is the gift that keeps on giving.
Die Hard – Because yes, it is a Christmas movie. (And quite possibly a top three for me)
The Last Holiday – Queen Latifah shows us how to live our best life, even if that involves an impromptu vacation and learning to embrace the unexpected.
White Christmas – If you're into big song-and-dance numbers, snow, and heartwarming tales about two men who just want to get their show on the road, this one’s for you.
The Man Who Invented Christmas – A delightful behind-the-scenes look at how Charles Dickens gave us A Christmas Carol—the ultimate holiday story.
Desk Set – For when you need to channel 'old-school workplace banter' with a side of Christmas magic. Also, Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy.