December 1
“Little Women”
Watch on: Hulu
Dir. Greta Gerwig
“It’s no use, Jo. Jo, We’ve gotta have it out.”
There’s a reason I’ve memorized the entire hill scene from this movie. Following the four March sisters as they navigate their coming-of-age journeys, “Little Women” is the perfect transition from fall into winter. Prepare for your life to be turned upside down by the Gerwig-Ronan-Chalamet Cinematic Universe and to know no rest until you determine which March sister you are. Whether you want to yearn, cry or discover an entirely new blueprint for your personality, this movie is for you.
December 2
“The Thing”
Watch on: Amazon Prime
Dir. John Carpenter
“Nobody trusts anybody now, and we’re all very tired.”
The return to school right before finals is scary, so it’s only fitting that your movie picks should be too. “The Thing” is more than just a gory, suspense-filled horror flick, though — it’s a masterclass in paranoia, distrust and isolation, three feelings that winter (and finals) instill in all of us. Take a break from your own horrors and immerse yourself in this John Carpenter classic, complete with jaw-dropping practical effects that are as chilling as the movie’s Antarctic setting.
December 3
“The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe”
Watch on: Disney+
Dir. Andrew Adamson
“Once a king or queen of Narnia, always a king or queen. May your wisdom grace us until the stars rain down from the heavens.”
“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” perfectly captures the winter spirit. When Lucy Pevensie (Georgie Henley) stumbles into a wardrobe that transports her to the magical land of Narnia, she brings her siblings along for the adventure of a lifetime. Together, they join forces with a magical lion to fight against the wicked White Witch, Jadis (Tilda Swinton). With its stunning snowy landscapes, this movie is perfect for getting you into the Christmas and winter spirit — especially when real snow feels far away.
December 4
“Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind”
Watch on: Netflix
Dir. Michel Gondry
“Sand is overrated. It’s just tiny little rocks.”
What’s the best way to cure your Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.)? Probably not by watching this movie — but do it anyway. This 2005 Oscar winner for Best Screenplay, written by surrealist storyteller Charlie Kaufman and directed by the equally wacky Michel Gondry, follows the unconventional journey of Joel Barish (Jim Carrey) and Clementine Kruczynski (Kate Winslet) as they navigate their flawed relationship. Prepare to be proven wrong about your preconceptions of both Carrey and the “manic pixie dream girl” trope.
December 5
“The Grand Budapest Hotel”
Watch on: Amazon Prime
Dir. Wes Anderson
“To be frank, I think his world had vanished long before he ever entered it.”
Often regarded as one of Wes Anderson’s best films, “The Grand Budapest Hotel” masterfully blends his signature aesthetic, witty dialogue and subtle, wry storytelling. With wintery scenes of innocent romance, absurdist mystery and a touch of poignant isolation (in the most beautiful way), this film captures the essence of winter like no other. It’s the perfect choice for immersing yourself in the season’s charm and melancholy feelings.
December 6
“Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone”
Watch on: Peacock
Dir. Chris Columbus
“Happy Christmas, Harry!”
“Happy Christmas, Ron!”
As finals approach, one movie stands out for its unparalleled ability to calm nerves and provide the cozy comfort we all desperately need. With its enchanting vibes, magical score, endlessly quotable moments, British accents and timeless story, “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” is the perfect antidote to pre-finals stress. Let it rekindle the sparkle in your eye and soothe your inner child — just in time to tackle the week ahead.
December 7
“The Shining”
Watch on: Amazon Prime
Dir. Stanley Kubrick
“Redrum”
My brother can mimic Danny’s “redrum” voice almost perfectly. In “The Shining,” a family of three moves to the remote Overlook Hotel to care for it during the off-season, only for the father, Jack Torrance (Jack Nicholson), to spiral into madness. With its eerie plot and stunning snowy backdrop, this winter horror classic is perfect for embracing isolation — just maybe not too much.
December 8
“Our Planet: Frozen Worlds”
Watch on: Netflix
Dir. Keith Scholey
Here’s the deal: finals start tomorrow, and you’re going to crush it — but first, you need sleep. Let David Attenborough’s soothing voice guide you into peaceful slumber as you marvel at the sights and sounds of wintery corners of the world. Just don’t stay awake long enough to see the baby seal almost get eaten — or do, if you need an empowering boost for your first exam. We’re all different. Either way, “Our Planet” is a breathtaking masterpiece everyone should experience.
December 9
“Fargo”
Watch on: Amazon Prime
Dir. Joel Coen
“Ah, jeez.”
Alright, if you thought the baby seal was bad, maybe skip this one. Here’s your warning: this movie is full of violence and blood. Like, (here comes a minor spoiler) body in the woodchipper kind of gore. But if you’re feeling up for a descent into chaos and madness after your first final, it may just be the movie for you. I hope you like Minnesotan accents and Frances McDormand.
December 10
“La La Land”
Watch on: Hulu
Dir. Damien Chazelle
Not a winter movie, you say? NOT a winter movie?!?!?!? Try to tell me that the last frame doesn’t fill you with the type of yearning that only the sun setting at 4:30 pm can fill you with. Go ahead, tell me that “La La Land” isn’t a winter movie. I wouldn’t dare watch this movie out of season. Wouldn’t dream of it. Not only is “La La Land” clearly a winter movie, but it’s also the best of the best. The songs? Beltable. The story? Makes you meltable. The ending? Trust me, put your essay down, open your computer and get back to what really matters: NOTHING but this masterpiece. Tap your toe and cry your heart out as you watch this winter classic and try to make it through finals.
December 11
“Scrooged”
Watch on: Amazon Prime
Dir. Richard Donner
“Oh, what is this, Frank? Oh, oh look, Frank! It’s a toaster!” [hits him in the forehead with the toaster]
Frank Cross (Bill Murray) is a successful television executive who is quite the curmudgeon. He has lost the love of his life because of his moody behavior and just fired one of his employees on Christmas Eve. This is when he begins getting visitors from three ghosts — Christmas Past, Present and Future — who are there to help Frank reevaluate his decisions. It’s finals week and maybe you, like Frank, find yourself reevaluating the life choices that got you here, so enjoy a good funny movie. You got this!
December 12
“Bridget Jones’ Diary”
Watch on: Max
Dir. Sharon Maguire
“Mother, I do not need a blind date. Particularly not with some verbally incontinent spinster who drinks like a fish, smokes like a chimney and dresses like her mother.”
If you know us, you know we love Romcoms — and “Bridget Jones’ Diary” is one of my all-time favorites. Bridget (Renée Zellweger) is in her mid-30s and still looking for love. Every holiday season, Bridget’s mother tries to set her up with a man, but it never works. This year, however, Bridget decides she wants to embark on the journey of self-improvement to avoid dying alone. This is the perfect movie if you want a constant cheesy smile on your face and love a good British accent.
December 13
“Frosty the Snowman”
Watch on: Hulu
Dir. Arthur Rankin Jr. and Jules Bass
“Now you go home and write ‘I am very sorry for what I did to Frosty’ a hundred zillion times. And then maybe — just maybe, mind you — you’ll find something in your stocking tomorrow morning.”
“Frosty the Snowman” is a Christmas classic. When a group of kids tops their snowman with a magical hat, they witness a Christmas miracle as Frosty comes to life. But the fun turns serious when Professor Hinkle demands his hat back, forcing the kids to make a tough choice: send Frosty and their friend Karen to the North Pole to save Frosty’s life. If the cozy, joyful vibe of the song “Frosty the Snowman” warms your heart, this movie will too.
December 14
“Elf”
Watch on: Max
Dir. Jon Favreau
“Uh, you look like you came from the North Pole.”
“Elf” offers a hilarious twist on classic Christmas movies. Buddy (Will Ferrell), a human raised as an elf after accidentally being transported to the North Pole as a baby, embarks on a journey to New York to find his real family. The catch? He’s in full elf attire, spreading chaotic cheer wherever he goes. If you’re in need of a good laugh and a lighthearted escape from finals, “Elf” is the perfect choice to close out the week with some holiday joy.
December 15
“The Holdovers”
Watch on: Amazon Prime
Dir. Alexander Payne
“So, before you dismiss something as boring or irrelevant, remember, if you truly want to understand the present or yourself, you must begin in the past. You see, history is not simply the study of the past. It is an explanation of the present.”
An amazing feel-good film and a standout this season, “The Holdovers” boasts eight Academy Award nominations and is set at a 1970s prep school. Angus Tully (Dominic Sessa) finds himself stuck at school over an isolated winter break with his grumpy professor. What ensues is a hilarious and heartwarming clash as the two constantly find ways to irritate — and eventually understand — each other. If you’re craving a complicated, slightly annoying and utterly lovable duo, this movie is for you. Think “Rushmore,” but set in winter and with way more wholesomeness.
December 16
“Die Hard”
Watch on: Hulu
Dir. John McTiernan
“Now I have a machine gun. Ho ho ho.”
Not everyone considers “Die Hard” a Christmas movie, but in the heat of a Christmas party, a group of terrorists break in, attempting to steal millions of dollars. John McClane (Bruce Willis) jumps into action, and it’s hard not to feel the Christmas spirit. This movie is great for all, especially if you happen to have a younger brother who seems to despise family movie time. Trust me, he’ll definitely be a “Die Hard” fan.
December 17
“Love Actually”
Watch on: Amazon Prime
Dir. Richard Curtis
“Whenever I get gloomy with the state of the world, I think about the arrivals gate at Heathrow Airport. General opinion’s starting to make out that we live in a world of hatred and greed, but I don’t see that. It seems to me that love is everywhere.”
Based on this list, you might think we’re obsessed with Hugh Grant or British rom-coms. This being said, “Love Actually” is just too cute to not have on the list. Just like this article, the movie is a countdown to Christmas. Follow an ensemble of characters as they each discover love in their own unique ways, leaving you rooting for every heartwarming storyline.
December 18
“Home Alone”
Watch on: Disney+
Dir. Chris Columbus
“Guys! I’m eating junk and watching rubbish. You better come out and stop me!”
I think we can all agree Kevin (Macaulay Culkin) is a real one after reading this quote. “Home Alone” is a classic, following Kevin as he spends the holiday alone in his house, protecting it from burglars after his parents accidentally leave him behind. It’s the perfect family movie if you’re looking for a laugh or just hoping to vicariously live through someone getting alone time during the holidays.
December 19
“How the Grinch Stole Christmas”
Watch on: Amazon Prime
Dir. Ron Howard
“MAX. HELP ME… I’m FEELING”
If you’re looking for a movie with good character growth, “The Grinch” is for you. The Grinch (Jim Carrey), who hates Christmas, descends from his mountaintop lair to ruin the holiday for all the Whos in Whoville. But his plans are challenged when he meets Cindy Lou Who (Taylor Momsen), a kind-hearted girl who makes him question his disdain for Christmas. Some may call the live-action Grinch creepy, but I say it adds character! With Christmas around the corner, this film beautifully captures the holiday spirit and the power of kindness.
December 20
“Meet me in St. Louis”
Watch on: Tubi
Dir. Vincente Minnelli
“Well, I got a cousin who spells it the same way, and we call him ‘Louie.’”
Two hours of shameless St. Louis propaganda? Sign me up! While not strictly a Christmas movie, Judy Garland’s rendition of“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and the enchanting winter scenes make “Meet Me in St. Louis” a holiday favorite. Released in 1944, this timeless movie-musical remains a beloved classic, brimming with warmth and charm. Its fun, nostalgic vibes are perfect for cozying up and getting into the Christmas spirit. Enjoy!
December 21
“A Christmas Story”
Watch on: Max
Dir. Bob Clark
“I was just kidding, even though Schwartz is getting one. I guess I’d just like some Tinker Toys.”
As Christmas draws near, “A Christmas Story” perfectly captures the anticipation and struggles leading up to the big day. Follow Ralphie (Peter Billingsley) as he navigates bullies, family tensions and his unwavering dream of the perfect Christmas gift — a Red Ryder BB gun. This hilarious countdown to Christmas is filled with relatable chaos, from keeping his glasses intact to preserving his holiday hopes. Dive into the Christmas spirit with this timeless, funny classic!
December 22
“The Muppets Christmas Carol”
Watch on: Disney+
Dir. Brian Henson
“And Tiny Tim… who did NOT die…”
I don’t even know where to begin with this one. “The Muppets Christmas Carol” is quite possibly the greatest film ever made. With lovable narrators Gonzo and Rizzo, Kermit and Miss Piggy as the quirky Cratchits, and Michael Caine delivering one of the best performances of his career, “The Muppet Christmas Carol” is a crowd-pleaser through and through. The soundtrack is fantastic, the story is timeless, and the Muppets make everything better. So, why aren’t you streaming this Christmas classic on Disney+ right now?
December 23
“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”
Watch on: Amazon Prime
Dir. Larry Roemer and Kizo Nagashima
“Well, as good as everyone feels, this is no time for celebrating, because the next day is Christmas Eve, the biggest day of the year!”
You’ve almost made it to Christmas, so now it’s time to remind yourself what all the reindeer names are and learn Rudolph’s backstory as you follow him on an adventure around the North Pole. This movie has a special place in my heart, as it’s my family’s tradition to watch it together every Christmas.
December 24
“A Charlie Brown Christmas”
Watch on: Apple TV
Dir. Bill Melendez
“Isn’t there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?”
Whether you’re feeling the Christmas spirit, the Christmas blues or the common mixture of both, “The Charlie Brown Christmas” special is the best way to spend 30 minutes of your Christmas Eve. The animation, script and music are poignant and comforting while the characters — though extremes of themselves — are each impossibly relatable in their own way. The soundtrack, composed by Vince Guaraldi, is worth listening to all year, and who doesn’t occasionally need some Snoopy in their life? Restore your faith in Christmas with this kids’ special, and prepare yourself for the parting of the holiday season.
December 25
“It’s a Wonderful Life”
Watch on: Amazon Prime
Dir. Frank Capra
“Remember, no man is a failure who has friends.”
Merry Christmas and Happy Chanukah! If you haven’t seen “It’s a Wonderful Life,” you’re missing out on one of the most cherished holiday traditions and greatest movies of all time. This timeless classic is the perfect way to close out the season, capable of warming even the most cynical heart and bringing tears to anyone’s eyes. It’s simply the best — don’t deprive yourself any longer!
