Best Christmas Movies 2023: Top Picks for the Holiday Season
Top Picks for Christmas Movies in 2023
The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than by cuddling up with some classic Christmas movies? With so many new releases and streaming platforms to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which movies to watch. Here are some top picks for Christmas movies in 2023, divided into different categories to suit everyone’s taste.
New Releases on Streaming Platforms
Streaming platforms such as Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, Apple TV+, and Peacock are releasing a plethora of new Christmas movies in 2023. From heartwarming family dramas to romantic comedies, there’s something for everyone. One of the highly anticipated movies of the year is “A Very Murray Christmas 2,” the sequel to the 2015 hit movie “A Very Murray Christmas,” which will be available on Netflix. The movie stars Bill Murray, who plays himself, and features a star-studded cast, including Miley Cyrus, George Clooney, and Rashida Jones.
Another movie to look out for is “Christmas in Harmony,” which will be available on Hulu. The movie follows a group of acapella singers who reunite after 20 years to perform a Christmas concert. The movie stars Kelly Clarkson, who also serves as an executive producer, and features a soundtrack of classic Christmas songs.
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Family Favorites and Animated Treats
Christmas is a time for families to come together, and what better way to bond than by watching some family-friendly Christmas movies? Disney+ is releasing “Home Alone 6: The Next Generation,” a new installment in the beloved franchise. The movie follows a new cast of characters who find themselves in a situation similar to Kevin McCallister’s, played by Macaulay Culkin, in the original movie.
For those who prefer animated movies, “The Grinch 2” will be available on Prime Video. The movie is a sequel to the 2018 hit movie “The Grinch” and features the voice of Benedict Cumberbatch as the titular character.
Romantic Christmas Comedies
Nothing screams Christmas more than a romantic comedy set during the holiday season. Apple TV+ is releasing “The Christmas Contract,” a movie about a woman who hires a man to be her fake boyfriend during the holidays—the movie stars Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling, who have great chemistry on screen.
Another movie to watch out for is “Christmas in the City,” which will be available on Netflix. The movie follows a woman who moves to New York City during the holiday season and falls in love with a man who helps her navigate the city. The movie stars Vanessa Hudgens and Chris Pine.
Action-Packed Holiday Films
For those who prefer action-packed movies, Shudder is releasing “Krampus 2: The Revenge,” a horror-comedy movie about the titular Christmas demon who seeks revenge on a family who has forgotten the true meaning of Christmas. The movie stars Adam Scott and Toni Collette and promises to be a thrilling ride.
Overall, there are plenty of Christmas movies to choose from in 2023, whether you prefer heartwarming family dramas or action-packed horror comedies. With so many new releases on different streaming platforms, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season.
Spotlight on Christmas Movie Stars
Jennifer Garner and Ed Helms in ‘The Holiday Switch’
Jennifer Garner and Ed Helms star in the heartwarming Christmas movie, ‘The Holiday Switch.’ In this movie, the two actors play a couple who are on the verge of divorce but decide to switch lives for the holidays. Garner’s character, a successful businesswoman, learns to appreciate the simple things in life, while Helms’ character, a stay-at-home dad, learns to take charge of his life. Their performances are both funny and touching, making this movie a must-watch for the holiday season.
Eddie Murphy’s ‘Candy Cane Lane’
Eddie Murphy stars in ‘Candy Cane Lane,’ an Amazon original movie that is sure to become a Christmas classic. Murphy plays a man who is determined to have the best Christmas decorations on his block. His over-the-top antics and hilarious one-liners make this movie a joy to watch. The movie is directed by Reginald Hudlin, who previously directed ‘Marshall,’ and is sure to be a hit with audiences of all ages.
Melissa McCarthy in ‘Best. Christmas. Ever!’
Melissa McCarthy stars in ‘Best. Christmas. Ever!’ alongside Brandy Norwood. The movie follows the story of two old college friends who reunite for a Christmas party. The two women end up competing against each other in a series of challenges, including an eggnog drinking contest. McCarthy’s comedic timing and Norwood’s singing talent make this movie a fun and festive watch.
Heather Graham and Brandy Norwood in ‘Home for Christmas’
Heather Graham and Brandy Norwood star in ‘Home for Christmas,’ a heartwarming movie about the importance of family. Graham plays a successful businesswoman who returns home for the holidays and must confront her past. Norwood plays her sister, who is struggling to keep the family business afloat. The two actresses have great chemistry on screen, and their performances are both funny and touching.
Overall, these Christmas movie stars bring their A-game to the screen, making these movies a must-watch for the holiday season. Whether you’re in the mood for a heartwarming family movie or a hilarious comedy, these movies have something for everyone.
Christmas Movie Themes and Tropes
Christmas movies are a staple during the holiday season, and they often follow specific themes and tropes. Here are some of the most common ones:
The Magic of Christmas
Many Christmas movies revolve around the magic of the holiday season. From Santa Claus and his elves to Christmas miracles, these movies often feature fantastical elements that remind viewers of the wonder and joy of the season. One such movie is “The Santa Clause,” which tells the story of a man who accidentally becomes Santa and must navigate the magical world of the North Pole.
Family Reunions and Body Switches
Another common theme in Christmas movies is family reunions and body switches. These movies often feature characters who are estranged from their families or who wish they could be someone else. In “Family Switch,” a mother and daughter switch bodies and must learn to appreciate each other’s lives in order to switch back.
The Quest for Love and Happiness
Many Christmas movies also focus on the quest for love and happiness. Whether it’s a romantic comedy like “Love Actually” or a heartwarming tale of friendship like “Elf,” these movies remind viewers that the true meaning of Christmas is the love and connection we share with others.
The Spirit of Giving and Redemption
Finally, many Christmas movies emphasize the spirit of giving and redemption. From “A Christmas Carol” to “It’s a Wonderful Life,” these movies remind us that even the most selfish and unhappy people can find redemption and joy by giving to others.
Overall, Christmas movies offer a range of themes and tropes that appeal to viewers of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a heartwarming tale of family and friendship or a fantastical adventure into the magical world of Christmas, there’s a movie out there for everyone.
Behind the Scenes
Directors and Writers Shaping the Season
The Best Christmas Movies of 2023 are a result of the creative and collaborative efforts of various directors and writers. Origin, the production company behind the highly anticipated “A Christmas Carol,” has brought on board notable filmmakers such as John Woo and Alexander Payne to direct and co-write the movie, respectively. The film is set to be a modern retelling of the classic story, with a star-studded cast that includes Emma Watson and Tom Hanks.
Richard Curtis, the writer behind beloved holiday films such as “Love Actually” and “About Time,” is also back this season with his latest movie “The Christmas Party.” The film follows a group of friends who reunite for their annual holiday party and features a talented ensemble cast, including Emma Stone and Michael B. Jordan.
Production and Filming Locations
The production and filming locations for the Best Christmas Movies of 2023 are as diverse as the stories they tell. “A Christmas Carol” was primarily shot in London, England, with some scenes also filmed in New York City. “The Christmas Party,” on the other hand, was filmed entirely in Los Angeles, California.
MCg, the production company behind “Christmas in the City,” took a different approach and filmed the movie in various cities across the United States. The film follows a journalist who travels across the country to find the best Christmas celebrations and features real-life holiday events and traditions from cities such as New Orleans and Seattle.
Music and Soundtracks in Christmas Movies
Music and soundtracks play a crucial role in creating the festive atmosphere of Christmas movies. Reginald Hudlin’s “Candy Cane Lane” features an original soundtrack by Grammy-nominated artist Janelle Monáe, who also stars in the film. The movie tells the heartwarming story of a young girl who sets out to save her neighborhood’s Christmas decorations from being taken down.
“The Christmas Party” features a mix of classic and modern holiday songs, including renditions of “Jingle Bells” and “Last Christmas.” The film also features an original song by John Legend, who also makes a cameo appearance.
Overall, the Best Christmas Movies of 2023 promise to be a delightful mix of heartwarming stories, talented casts, and festive music.
Cultural Impact and Reception
Box Office Success and Viewer Ratings
The holiday season is a time when many people look forward to watching Christmas movies to get into the holiday spirit. In 2023, several new Christmas movies were released, and they have been received with mixed reactions from viewers. Some movies have been a hit with audiences and have done well at the box office, while others have not been as successful.
According to Entertainment Weekly, “Sing 2” was the highest-grossing Christmas movie of 2023. The movie, which features a star-studded voice cast and catchy musical numbers, earned over $500 million worldwide. Other successful Christmas movies at the box office include “The Holdovers” and “American Woman.”
Viewer ratings have also been a mixed bag for Christmas movies in 2023. Some movies have received high ratings from viewers, while others have been panned. For example, “A Very Merry Christmas” received a 7.5 rating on IMDb, while “The Christmas Chronicles 3” received a 5.8 rating.
Critical Reviews and Awards
In addition to box office success and viewer ratings, critical reviews and awards are also important indicators of a movie’s cultural impact and reception. Some Christmas movies in 2023 have received positive critical reviews and have been nominated for awards.
According to Promotion, “The Holdovers” has received critical acclaim and has been nominated for several awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. Other Christmas movies that have received positive reviews include “A Very Merry Christmas” and “The Christmas Chronicles 3.”
Christmas Movies and Social Media Buzz
Social media is another critical factor in a movie’s cultural impact and reception. Christmas movies in 2023 have generated a lot of buzz on social media platforms such as Twitter and Instagram. Fans have been sharing their thoughts and opinions about the movies, as well as posting memes and other content related to the holiday season.
Some Christmas movies have been more popular on social media than others. For example, “The Christmas Chronicles 3” has generated a lot of buzz on Twitter, with fans sharing their excitement about the movie and posting memes featuring the movie’s characters. Other popular Christmas movies on social media include “A Very Merry Christmas” and “Sing 2.”
Overall, Christmas movies in 2023 have had a mixed reception from audiences, critics, and social media users. While some movies have been successful at the box office and have received positive reviews and awards, others have not been as successful. However, the holiday season is a time when many people enjoy watching Christmas movies, and the movies released in 2023 have provided viewers with a variety of options to choose from.
Exclusive Christmas Movie Events
If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the best Christmas movies of 2023, there are plenty of exclusive events happening around the country. From premieres and special screenings to interviews and fan events, there’s something for everyone.
Premieres and Special Screenings
Several highly anticipated Christmas movies are set to make their debut this holiday season, including “The Bad Guys: A Very Bad Holiday,” “Merry Little Batman,” “A Christmas Frequency,” and “Diary of a Wimpy Kid Christmas: Cabin Fever.” Many of these films will have exclusive premieres and special screenings in select cities, giving fans the opportunity to see them before anyone else.
Interviews and Talk Show Appearances
The stars of these Christmas movies will also be making appearances on various talk shows and interviews leading up to the holiday season. Keep an eye out for interviews with the cast and crew of “The Bad Guys: A Very Bad Holiday,” “Merry Little Batman,” “A Christmas Frequency,” and “Diary of a Wimpy Kid Christmas: Cabin Fever” on your favorite TV shows and podcasts.
Fan Events and Interactive Experiences
For the ultimate Christmas movie experience, consider attending one of the many fan events and interactive experiences happening this holiday season. From meet and greets with the stars to immersive pop-up experiences, these events offer a unique way to celebrate your favorite Christmas movies.
Overall, the 2023 holiday season promises to be an exciting time for Christmas movie fans. With exclusive events happening across the country, there’s no shortage of ways to get into the holiday spirit and experience the best Christmas movies of the year.
Exploring Christmas Movie Settings
When it comes to Christmas movies, the settings can be just as important as the characters and plot. From iconic cities and towns to fantastical worlds and historical periods, the settings can transport viewers into a magical holiday wonderland.
Iconic Christmas Cities and Towns
Many classic Christmas movies are set in cities and towns that have become synonymous with the holiday season. For example, “A Christmas Story” is set in the fictional town of Hohman, Indiana, which is based on the real-life town of Hammond. Meanwhile, “Home Alone” takes place in the bustling city of Chicago, where Kevin McCallister must fend off burglars while his family is away on vacation.
Other iconic Christmas movie settings include Bedford Falls, the small town in upstate New York that serves as the backdrop for “It’s a Wonderful Life,” and the North Pole, where Santa Claus and his elves reside in “The Polar Express.”
Fantastical Worlds and Christmas Lore
Some Christmas movies transport viewers to fantastical worlds that are steeped in Christmas lore. “The Polar Express,” for example, takes viewers on a magical train ride to the North Pole, where children can meet Santa Claus and his elves.
Other movies, such as “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” blend Christmas themes with Halloween imagery to create a unique and spooky holiday world.
Historical and Period Christmas Films
Finally, many Christmas movies are set in historical periods, giving viewers a glimpse into how people celebrated the holiday in the past. “It’s a Wonderful Life” is set during the Great Depression, while “A Christmas Carol” takes place in 19th-century London.
These movies not only provide a glimpse into the past but also remind viewers of the timeless themes of love, family, and generosity that are at the heart of the holiday season.
Christmas Movies for Different Audiences
When it comes to Christmas movies, there are options for everyone, from children to adults. Here are some of the best Christmas movies for different audiences:
Children and Family-Oriented Films
For families looking to enjoy some wholesome Christmas entertainment, there are plenty of options. The Hallmark Channel, Great American Family, and Lifetime all offer a variety of family-friendly Christmas movies. These films often have heartwarming storylines and messages about the importance of family and love.
Some popular options for children and families include “The Christmas Chronicles 2,” “A Boy Called Christmas,” and “Home Alone 2023.” These movies are sure to put a smile on the faces of both children and adults.
Teen and Young Adult Christmas Movies
For teenagers and young adults, there are Christmas movies that are tailored to their interests and sensibilities. These movies often have a mix of humor, romance, and drama. They may also have a more modern and edgy feel to them.
One example of a teen and young adult Christmas movie is “Happiest Season.” This movie follows a young woman who plans to propose to her girlfriend over Christmas, but things take a turn when she realizes her girlfriend hasn’t come out to her conservative family. This movie is available on VOD and is sure to be a hit with young audiences.
Adult-Only Christmas Comedies and Dramas
For adults looking for a more mature Christmas movie experience, there are plenty of options as well. These movies may have more adult themes and language and may not be suitable for children.
One example of an adult-only Christmas movie is “Bad Santa 3.” This movie follows the misadventures of a con man who poses as Santa Claus to rob department stores on Christmas Eve. This movie is sure to make adults laugh and is available on VOD.
In conclusion, there are Christmas movies for everyone, from children to adults. Whether you’re looking for a heartwarming, family-friendly film or a raunchy adult comedy, there’s something out there for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated Christmas movies released in 2023?
There are several top-rated Christmas movies released in 2023 that have received critical acclaim. According to Good Housekeeping, some of the top-rated Christmas movies of 2023 include “A Christmas Miracle,” “The Christmas Fix,” and “The Christmas Contest.”
Which Christmas movies are new on Netflix for the 2023 holiday season?
Netflix has several new Christmas movies for the 2023 holiday season. According to Tom’s Guide, some of the new Christmas movies on Netflix for 2023 include “A Christmas Prince: The Royal Baby,” “The Knight Before Christmas 2,” and “The Christmas Chronicles 3.”
What Christmas films are premiering on television this December 2023?
Several Christmas films are premiering on television this December 2023. According to TV Guide, some of the films include “How to Fall in Love By the Holidays,” “The Santa Clause 4,” and “A Christmas Carol.”
Which Christmas movies on Prime Video should I not miss in 2023?
Amazon Prime Video has several Christmas movies that you should not miss in 2023. According to Vulture, some of the must-watch Christmas movies on Prime Video include “Happiest Season 2,” “A Very Merry Toy Store 2,” and “The Christmas House 2.”
Are there any Christmas movies available for free on Freevee in 2023?
It is unclear if there are any Christmas movies available for free on Freevee in 2023. However, it is always worth checking the Freevee platform to see if there are any free Christmas movies available.
How do the 2023 Christmas movie releases compare on Rotten Tomatoes?
The 2023 Christmas movie releases have received mixed reviews on Rotten Tomatoes. According to Good Housekeeping, some of the movies have received high ratings, while others have received lower ratings. It is always worth checking Rotten Tomatoes to see how a movie has been rated before watching it.
