The best Christmas films to watch this festive season

The holiday season is approaching, bringing with it lights, gatherings, hot chocolate, and cozy moments by the fire. It’s the perfect time to slow down, get together with family and friends, and immerse yourself in the comforting atmosphere of Christmas movies. Whether it’s lighthearted comedies, fairy tales, tear-jerking dramas, or unexpected action films, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this season. Here is a selection of films to (re)discover during this special time of year.

The Holdovers (Alexander Payne, 2023)

In the 1970s, Paul Hunham is a brilliant yet despised classics teacher at a posh New England boarding school. He’s forced to stay on campus during the Christmas vacations to keep an eye on the few students who can’t make it home. Among them is Angus Tully, an intelligent but unruly teenager abandoned by his parents. Mary Lamb, the cook bereaved by the loss of her son, has also stayed behind. The three of them, isolated and wounded by life, must live together for several days in this austere setting. Through confrontations, more touching moments, and heavy silences, they get to know each other. This unexpected confinement, far from the hustle and bustle of the holidays, gives way to dry humor, personal scars, and compassion. The film is a bittersweet chronicle of the bonds that form where we least expect them, and the warmth that can arise even in the most bitter cold.

• IMDb rating: 5/10
• Allociné rating: 4.1/5

Spirited (Sean Anders, 2022)

Every year, the Christmas spirits select a soul “to reform” and guide it to redemption. This time, the choice is Clint Briggs, a cynical, manipulative consultant and expert in media scandals. But Clint is no ordinary target: he proves to be much tougher than expected, even questioning the ghosts’ methods. The Ghost of Christmas Present, ready to retire, sees this challenge as an opportunity for one last meaningful act. What follows is a series of funny, absurd and sometimes moving confrontations, punctuated by rousing musical numbers. This modern, musical retelling of Dickens’ classic questions our ability to change, to face our past and to become better people. With its colorful staging, high comic energy and charismatic acting duo, the film offers unexpectedly festive entertainment, somewhere between contemporary satire and Christmas spirit.

• IMDb rating: 6.6/10
• Allociné rating: 3.4/5

Happiest Season (Clea DuVall, 2020)

Abby is madly in love with her partner Harper and plans to propose to her over Christmas. For the occasion, she agrees to spend a few days with Harper’s parents. But once there, Abby discovers that Harper has never come out to her conservative family. The young woman is forced to play the role of “straight roommate” to distrustful in-laws, competing sisters and rigid family traditions. In this tense climate, Abby’s certainties waver. Should she fight for their relationship or run away from one built on lies? This bittersweet romantic comedy tackles the conflicts between private life and family expectations with tenderness, humor and candor. It sheds light on the social pressures that still weigh on the LGBTQ+ community, while celebrating the courage to come out. A film that’s both funny and moving, modernizing Christmas classics without losing their magic.

• IMDb rating: 6.6/10
• Allociné rating: 3.1/5

Klaus (Carlos Martínez López and Sergio Pablos, 2019)

Jesper, the son of a wealthy postmaster, is a lazy, selfish young man. To straighten him out, his father sends him to a remote village in the Arctic Circle: Smeerensburg. There, the inhabitants live in a permanent clan war, and no one exchanges letters. Jesper, forced to prove he deserves his position, tries to revive the postal service. It’s when he meets Klaus, a lonely carpenter who makes magnificent toys, that he comes up with an idea: to deliver these toys to children who send a letter. Little by little, this initiative brings joy back to the village and defuses old grudges. The film revisits the legend of Santa Claus with originality, injecting it with great humanity and a unique visual style that blends 2D and digital animation. It’s a fable about kindness, change and the impact that a simple gesture can have, even in the coldest corners of the world.

• IMDb rating: 8.2/10
• Allociné rating: 4.3/5

The Christmas Chronicles (Clay Kaytis, 2018)

Teddy and his little sister Kate have had a hard time having a merry Christmas since their father died. One evening, they set a trap for Santa Claus, filming him in action. Their plan works a little too well: the children get caught up in the magic sleigh, causing an accident and destroying the presents. To save Christmas Eve, they must cooperate with a lively, sarcastic but benevolent Santa Claus, played by Kurt Russell. Together, they scour the town to retrieve the presents, repair the sleigh and prevent Christmas from being cancelled. This family adventure blends humor, tenderness and twists and turns in a magical atmosphere. It renews the myth of Santa Claus with energy, modernity and a rock’n’roll spirit. A beautiful ode to solidarity, forgiveness and the magic of the holidays.

• IMDb rating: 7.0/10
• Allociné rating: 3.4/5

Santa & Cie (Alain Chabat, 2017)

A few days before Christmas, disaster strikes the North Pole: the 92,000 elves who make the presents mysteriously fall ill. Without them, it’s impossible to save the holiday. Santa Claus, overwhelmed but determined, takes his sleigh down to Earth to look for a cure. But arriving in Paris in a red suit, without any ID, and with a certain naivety, he doesn’t go unnoticed. Caught between traffic jams, police officers and a reality he doesn’t understand, he will have to rely on the help of a couple of overworked parents to help him accomplish his mission. Alain Chabat, the film’s director and actor, delivers an offbeat, warm-hearted and absurd family comedy in keeping with his legendary sense of humor. The film blends Christmas magic, gentle satire of the modern world and cultural references in a lively, generous rhythm. It’s an adventure full of tenderness and laughter that will appeal to children and adults alike.

• IMDb rating: 6.3/10
• Allociné rating: 3.7/5

Office Christmas Party (Josh Gordon and Will Speck, 2016)

When the head office of a major corporation threatens to close one of its regional branches, the local manager throws a memorable Christmas party to impress a potential client and save his team’s jobs. But what was supposed to be a simple work party quickly turns into absolute chaos. Nothing goes according to plan: alcohol, falls, hijacked photocopiers and embarrassing revelations. Boasting an explosive ensemble cast (Jennifer Aniston, T.J. Miller, Jason Bateman, Kate McKinnon), this film takes office comedy to the extreme. Behind the festive delirium and outrageous gags lie some reflections on team spirit, loyalty and the pressures of the working world. It’s a real comedic outlet, aimed at fans of parties that get out of hand, far removed from traditional Christmas tales. A must-see for adults, preferably after wrapping up work for the holidays.

• IMDb rating: 5.9/10
• Allociné rating: 2.9/5

Rise of the Guardians (Peter Ramsey, 2012)

When the evil Pitch Black, the embodiment of nightmares, decides to plunge the world into fear and destroy children’s dreams, the Guardians band together to fight him. Among them: Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy and the Sandman. But to help them face this unprecedented threat, a new recruit is imposed upon them: Jack Frost, a mischievous and solitary spirit and master of winter. Initially reluctant, Jack must find his place within this team of legends and discover what makes him truly special. With spectacular action scenes, humor, poetry and reflections on childhood and self-esteem, this DreamWorks animated film offers a modern, dynamic retelling of mythical holiday figures. An epic and moving tale that celebrates imagination, courage and light in the face of darkness.

• IMDb rating: 7.2/10
• Allociné rating: 4.2/5

Arthur Christmas (Sarah Smith and Barry Cook, 2011)

On Christmas Eve, everything goes perfectly: millions of presents are delivered on time thanks to a high-tech organization headed by Steve, Santa’s eldest son. But an error has crept into the system: a single gift has not been delivered. For Steve, it’s just a detail. But Arthur, the clumsy and idealistic youngest son, refuses to abandon a single child. Accompanied by his eccentric grandfather, a nostalgic former Santa Claus, and an elf gift-wrapping expert, Arthur embarks on a crazy mission to save the magic of Christmas. This animated film by Aardman offers an inventive, modern take on the Santa Claus myth, blending British humor, hectic adventure and heartfelt emotion. With its endearing characters and touching message about the importance of each individual, Arthur Christmas succeeds in marrying tradition and modernity in a story that’s funny, tender and thrilling all at once.

• IMDb rating: 7.1/10
• Allociné rating: 3.8/5

Hugo (Martin Scorsese, 2011)

In the Paris of the 1930s, Hugo, a young orphan, lives in secret within the walls of a large train station. He spends his days repairing a mysterious automaton left by his deceased father, hoping to discover a hidden message. His quest leads him to cross paths with Isabelle, a lively, inquisitive girl, and Georges Méliès, a withdrawn old toy merchant who turns out to be a forgotten cinema legend. Through this adventure full of mystery, clockwork, magic and memories, Hugo will discover the power of dreams and cinema. Directed by Martin Scorsese, this film is a declaration of love to cinema, as well as a moving and visually sumptuous coming-of-age story. It blends personal history and cultural heritage in a warm, fairytale winter atmosphere, perfect for the holidays.

• IMDb rating: 7.5/10
• Allociné rating: 4.1/5

SantApprentice (Paulette Victor Lifton and Luc Vinciguerra, 2010)

Every 178 years, Santa Claus must retire and pass on his red coat to a worthy successor. This time, it’s up to a little orphan named Nicholas to become the new Santa. But before he’s ready, he must undergo intense training in a magical world full of elves, reindeer and strict rules. Shy, awkward and unsure of himself, Nicolas will have to face his fears, understand the importance of generosity and learn to believe in himself. Through this tender and humorous adventure, the film tackles profound themes such as self-confidence, transmission and childhood. This Franco-Belgian production captivates with its warm animation, fairy-tale settings and benevolent tone. Ideal for children and adults alike looking for an original and heartwarming Christmas tale.

• IMDb rating: 6.3/10
• Allociné rating: 3.7/5

A Christmas Carol (Robert Zemeckis, 2009)

Ebenezer Scrooge, a bitter old London banker, hates Christmas and everything about it. Stingy, cold and solitary, he treats his employees harshly and refuses all forms of generosity. But on the night of December 24, he is visited by the ghost of his former partner, Jacob Marley, who warns him that if he doesn’t change, he will meet a terrible fate. Scrooge is confronted by three spirits: those of Christmas past, Christmas present and Christmas future. Each will take him on a shattering journey through memories, realities and the consequences of his actions. Directed in performance capture by Robert Zemeckis, this is a faithful and spectacular adaptation of Dickens’ classic. Jim Carrey brilliantly portrays several roles. The atmosphere is dark and immersive, with some impressive sequences, while conveying a universal message about forgiveness, kindness and the possibility of change, even late in life.

• IMDb rating: 6.8/10
• Allociné rating: 3.4/5

A Christmas Tale (Arnaud Desplechin, 2008)

As Christmas approaches in Roubaix, the Vuillard family reunites under the weight of grudges, old wounds and heavy silence. Junon, the mother, has a rare form of leukemia and needs a bone marrow transplant. She calls on her children, including the fragile Ivan, the bitter Elisabeth and the provocative Henri, banished several years ago. This Christmas becomes the scene of a family reckoning, where truths come out, alliances shift and unspoken things fall apart. In this rich, dense and intelligent family drama, Arnaud Desplechin combines polished dialogue, raw emotion and the subtlety of relationships. Carried by a brilliant cast (Catherine Deneuve, Mathieu Amalric, Jean-Paul Roussillon), the film explores blood ties, forgiveness, the gentle madness of family reunions and intimate rifts with a rare grace. It’s not a traditional Christmas film, but a profound look at the cruelest and most indispensable aspects of family.

• IMDb rating: 7.0/10
• Allociné rating: 3.2/5

The Holiday (Nancy Meyers, 2006)

London journalist Iris is hopelessly in love with a man who is about to marry someone else. Amanda, a trailer producer in Los Angeles, has just discovered that her partner is cheating on her. The two decide to swap homes over the holidays to escape their complicated lives. Iris discovers California and the exuberance of Hollywood, while Amanda finds herself in a charming snowy cottage in England. Each will make unexpected encounters that will turn their vision of love and themselves upside down. Between romantic comedy, Christmas decorations and the quest for self, The Holiday is a comforting bubble carried by an irresistible quartet: Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz, Jude Law and Jack Black. The film charms with its sincerity, gentleness and cosy atmosphere. It’s an ode to second chances, human connections and the unexpected magic of Christmas, even when you’ve lost faith in anything.

• IMDb rating: 6.9/10
• Allociné rating: 3.8/5

The Family Stone (Thomas Bezucha, 2005)

As Christmas approaches, the Stone family – exuberant, open-minded and accustomed to warm gatherings – meet for a traditional dinner party. Everett brings along his girlfriend Meredith, an uptight New Yorker is very different from the free spirit of the household. Before long, Meredith’s clumsiness, rigid behavior and discomfort with the atmosphere disturb the family’s harmony. Isolated, judged and misunderstood, she feels like an outsider in the heart of this close-knit tribe. Tension mounts, resentment and differences erupt, until the family, between arguments and laughter, becomes aware of its own prejudices, fears and the importance of acceptance and love. A not-so-perfect, but realistic and touching Christmas.

• IMDb: 6.3/10
• AlloCiné: 3.2/5

Joyeux Noël (Christian Carion, 2005)

In 1914, at the height of the First World War, German, French and Scottish soldiers clash in the trenches. As Christmas approaches, a German soldier, a French lieutenant and a Scottish clergyman, moved by music, manage to establish an informal truce. That evening, yesterday’s enemies share a moment of fraternity: songs, words exchanged, memories, cigarettes and chocolate. For a few hours, the war fades away, giving way to humanity, compassion and hope. This film recounts this miracle of peace, a reminder that even in the worst circumstances, solidarity and kindness can build bridges.

• IMDb: 7.7/10
• AlloCiné: 3.8/5

The Polar Express (Robert Zemeckis, 2004)

A boy doubting the existence of Santa Claus is awakened in the middle of the night by a strange commotion. In front of his house, a huge black train comes to a halt. It’s the Polar Express, offering to take him to Santa’s village. Joining other children, he embarks on a fabulous journey through icy forests, over suspension bridges and across snowy plains. Along the way, he faces his fears, shows courage and learns to believe. The film uses motion capture technology that was unheard of at the time, and features Tom Hanks in several roles. More than a simple animated film, it’s a fable about faith, imagination and the magic of childhood. The message is clear: believing is not about proving, but about feeling. A visually striking tale, both soothing and grandiose, that has become a must-see for the festive season.

• IMDb rating: 6.6/10
• Allociné rating: 3.6/5

Elf (Jon Favreau, 2003)

Buddy, a human raised at the North Pole by Santa’s elves, discovers as an adult that he’s not an elf like the others. Too big and clumsy, he decides to leave for New York to find his biological father, a cynical children’s book publisher who is completely indifferent to the magic of Christmas. Landing in the urban jungle in his green suit, Buddy must adapt to a world that no longer believes in elves or the holiday spirit. His boundless enthusiasm and naivety gradually upset those around him. This modern tale, full of absurdist humor and tenderness, skilfully plays on the gap between a magical world and contemporary reality. With Will Ferrell’s endearing, fully committed performance, Elf has become a classic Christmas movie, perfect for laughing and rediscovering, however briefly, the candor of childhood.

• IMDb rating: 7.1/10
• Allociné rating: 3.2/5

Love Actually (Richard Curtis, 2003)

In London, a few weeks before Christmas, several stories of love, desire, loss and reunion intertwine. A newly-elected prime minister falls in love with one of his aides. A writer betrayed by his partner takes refuge in the South of France and finds love. A woman discovers that her husband may be unfaithful. A young boy tries to win the heart of his classmate. Each unique and heartfelt plot explores a different facet of love: new, broken, silent, awkward or unexpected. With its star-studded cast (Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, Colin Firth, Keira Knightley, Alan Rickman…), cult soundtrack and warm atmosphere, Love Actually has become a holiday must-see. The film celebrates the impulses of the heart with humor, emotion and humanity, while taking on a touch of melancholy. It reminds us that, even in the midst of chaos, love is everywhere, for those who want to see it.

• IMDb rating: 7.6/10
• Allociné rating: 3.9/5

Bad Santa (Terry Zwigoff, 2003)

Willie is an alcoholic and depressive con man who, every Christmas, disguises himself as Santa Claus in shopping malls with his accomplice Marcus, a fake elf. Their goal is simple: locate the security systems, steal the cash register and disappear until the following year. But this year, nothing goes according to plan. With a suspicious manager, a barmaid attracted to men in red and, above all, a naive and endearing kid who firmly believes that Willie is the real Santa Claus, the scam turns into chaos. Behind the dark humor, crude dialogue and apparent cynicism, the film hides an unexpected story of redemption. Billy Bob Thornton perfectly embodies this fallen Santa, disgusted with everything, but whose shell cracks in the face of a child’s persistent innocence. Bad Santa is a gritty, irreverent and politically incorrect comedy that breaks the codes of the Christmas movie, yet somehow keeps its spirit.

• IMDb rating: 7.1/10
• Allociné rating: 3.3/5

Tokyo Godfathers (Satoshi Kon and Shôgo Furuya, 2003)

On Christmas Eve in Tokyo, three homeless people find a baby abandoned among the garbage. They are Gin, an alcoholic former cyclist, Hana, a transgender woman with a maternal temperament, and Miyuki, a teenage runaway. Rather than alert the police, they decide to find the child’s mother by following the few clues left in the bassinet. This quest, made up of improbable encounters and revelations, takes them through the cold, busy streets of the city. Along the way, each character is confronted with their own past and the reasons that led them to the streets in the first place. Directed by Satoshi Kon, this animated film blends social realism and the magic of destiny with rare finesse. Tokyo Godfathers is a moving tale of family, forgiveness, solidarity and the possibility of reinventing oneself, even when you think you’ve lost everything. An unexpected tale about a marginal, yet bright, Christmas.

• IMDb rating: 7.9/10
• Allociné rating: 4.1/5

8 Women (François Ozon, 2002)

In a large house isolated by the snow, a family is preparing to celebrate Christmas when the master of the house is found dead in his bed. Eight women find themselves trapped together, each with a special connection to the victim and a secret to hide. With no escape, they accuse, defend and reveal each other. Jealousies, lies, ambition and frustrations are revealed in a single-setting film that combines comedy, suspense and musical numbers. Each protagonist becomes a suspect, and the atmosphere gradually builds with tension and unexpected revelations. The film plays with the codes of whodunit and comedy, while painting an acerbic portrait of family relationships and pretense.

• IMDb: 6.9/10
• AlloCiné: 3.6/5

How the Grinch Stole Christmas (Ron Howard, 2000)

High up on Mount Crumpit lives the Grinch, a green, hairy, grumpy creature who hates Christmas and the Whos of Whoville. Since childhood, he has lived in isolation, consumed by rejection and bitterness. Exasperated by the hustle and bustle of the holidays, he decides to steal Christmas decorations, presents and even meals. But not everything goes according to plan. A little girl named Cindy Lou, touched by the Grinch’s sadness, tries to understand who he really is. Adapted from the famous book by Dr. Seuss, this film directed by Ron Howard combines visual humor, whimsical settings and a memorable performance by Jim Carrey in the title role. Behind the eccentricity and comedy lies a story about loneliness, forgiveness and the ability to change. The Grinch, a perfect antihero, reminds us that the spirit of Christmas is not to be found in presents or tinsel, but in hearts.

• IMDb rating: 6.3/10
• Allociné rating: 3.4/5

The Family Man (Brett Ratner, 2000)

Jack Campbell and Kate Reynolds fell passionately in love at university, but when Jack moved to London for a career opportunity, they split up, thinking they could continue their relationship from a distance. Thirteen years later, Jack has become a brilliant, single financier, completely disconnected from love and family. One Christmas Eve, after helping a man with a robbery, he wakes up… married to Kate, father of two, and a tire salesman at his father-in-law’s company. He discovers the life he could have had if he’d made a different choice. Through this rude awakening and alternative existence, he rediscovers love, simplicity and the true values of life.

• IMDb: 6.3/10
• AlloCiné: 3.2/5

Jack Frost (Troy Miller, 1998)

A musician father, Jack Frost, neglects his son Charlie because of his touring. One Christmas Eve, he dies in a car accident. A year later, Charlie’s melancholy magically awakens his father’s spirit, reincarnated as a snowman. Jack, with this new, frosty body, has one last chance to make amends for his mistakes, rebuild the bond with his son and give him a wonderful Christmas.

• IMDb: 5.5/10
• Allociné: 3.1/5

Jingle All the Way (Brian Levant, 1996)

Howard Langston, a busy businessman, promises his son the hottest toy of the moment: TurboMan. But there’s a problem: it’s December 24, and all the stores are out of stock. So begins a mad dash across town, where Howard battles other desperate parents, including a postman as relentless as himself. Between fights in the aisles, improvised disguises and absurd circumstances, the day turns into chaos. Behind the slapstick humor and delirious action scenes lies a biting critique of overconsumption and the pressure parents feel at Christmas. Arnold Schwarzenegger, in an unusual role, plays a self-deprecating father overwhelmed by events. Jingle All the Way is a funny and frenetic family satire that has become a cult classic thanks to its boundless energy and sharp take on the spirit of Christmas being hijacked by consumer society.

• IMDb rating: 5.7/10
• Allociné rating: 2.8/5

The Santa Clause (John Pasquin, 1994)

Scott Calvin, a divorced father with little involvement in his son Charlie’s life, is awakened on Christmas Eve by a noise on the roof: it’s the real Santa Claus, who has accidentally fallen. Putting on his red suit, Scott unknowingly accepts the magic clause that designates him as the new Santa. In one night, he must deliver the presents and inherit the mission of perpetuating the holiday spirit. Now the “new” Santa Claus, Scott must accept his responsibilities, reconnect with his son and believe in the magic of Christmas once again.

• IMDb: 6.5/10
• Allociné: 3.4/5

Edward Scissorhands (Tim Burton, 1990)

Created by an inventor who dies before completing his work, Edward finds himself alone in a mansion, with scissor blades for hands. One day, a salesgirl welcomes him into her home and introduces him to a colorful American suburb, where his gentle nature and talent for creation amaze the locals. He trims hedges, carves ice, styles hair and becomes a local celebrity. But his strange appearance and his difference eventually arouse fear, jealousy and rejection. Edward falls in love with the family daughter, but this impossible relationship precipitates his downfall. Gradually, admiration turns to distrust, then to hatred, until he is forced to flee and return to his solitude. The film explores the fragility of acceptance, social cruelty and betrayed innocence.

• IMDb: 7.9/10
• AlloCiné: 4.0/5

Home Alone (Chris Columbus, 1990)

On Christmas Eve, the McCallister family prepares to leave for Paris. In their haste, they leave 8-year-old Kevin at home alone. At first delighted to be rid of his parents and siblings, the young boy relishes his freedom. But two clumsy burglars, Harry and Marv, have spotted the empty house. What they didn’t count on was Kevin’s resourcefulness. He turns his house into a battlefield of ingenious traps to fend them off. A true holiday classic, this family comedy blends hilarious slapstick humor, tenderness and adventure. Macaulay Culkin mischievously embodies the iconic child hero. Behind the jokes and absurdity lies a touching message about loneliness, family and the joy of togetherness. With its warm atmosphere, memorable soundtrack and classic lines, this film has become a Christmas staple for generations.

• IMDb rating: 7.7/10
• Allociné rating: 4.3/5

Die Hard (John McTiernan, 1988)

New York policeman John McClane arrives in Los Angeles to spend Christmas with his estranged wife. She works in a state-of-the-art skyscraper, the Nakatomi Plaza, where an end-of-year reception is being held. But the evening is turned upside down when heavily armed terrorists take the building hostage. Alone, barefoot and trapped on the upper floors, McClane becomes the hostages’ only hope. Using cunning, bravery and wry humor, he takes on the criminals one by one in an explosive cat-and-mouse game. Die Hard redefined the modern action film by introducing a vulnerable, tired but incredibly determined hero. Carried by Bruce Willis and an unforgettable Alan Rickman as the antagonist, the film alternates tension, iconic punchlines and spectacular scenes. Although it’s not a traditional tale, its Christmassy backdrop has made it a holiday classic for fans of high-octane action. Yes, it is a Christmas movie!

• IMDb rating: 8.2/10
• Allociné rating: 4.3/5

Gremlins (Joe Dante, 1984)

When Billy receives a strange and adorable little Mogwai named Gizmo as a Christmas present from his eccentric inventor father, he’s given three rules: never expose him to bright light, never get him wet, and above all, never feed him after midnight. Billy’s curious and stubborn behavior leads to the animal’s transformation into a monstrous, mischievous creature: a Gremlin. The festivities then turn into a nightmare, as the malevolent and unpredictable Gremlins wreak havoc and destruction on the town after dark. A horror-comedy with a cult following, combining dark humor, tension and the rebellious spirit of its creatures.

• IMDb: 7.9/10
• AlloCiné: 4.2/5

Le Père Noël est une ordure (Jean-Marie Poiré, 1982)

On the evening of December 24, the SOS Détresse Amitié duty team, made up of Thérèse and Pierre, tries to answer distress calls calmly and seriously. But the night has only just begun, and one problem follows another. A suicidal transvestite, an intrusive neighbor, a rude gun-toting Santa Claus and an avalanche of absurd catastrophes all take their turn. Adapted from Le Splendid’s play, this burlesque movie piles on the misunderstandings, killer lines and unlikely characters. Behind the black humor and now legendary dialogue lies an acerbic critique of loneliness, clumsy charity and social hypocrisy. It’s a Christmas gone haywire, where the festive spirit is swept away by pettiness and absurdity. Yet the film remains deeply funny, and has become a staple of French popular culture.

• IMDb rating: 7.4/10
• Allociné rating: 3.8/5

Miracle on 34th Street (George Seaton, 1947)

In post-war New York, a divorced mother hires an old man to play Santa Claus in the windows of a department store as the holidays approach. The man, Kris Kringle, charms children and customers with his benevolence… but claims to be the real Santa. His identity is called into question, and when he faces internment, a lawyer agrees to defend him. In court, everyone is faced with a simple question: whether or not to believe in the magic of Christmas. A tender, hopeful film that’s a tribute to faith, generosity and innocence.

• IMDb: 7.9/10
• AlloCiné: 4.4/5

Whether you’re looking for laughter, emotion, nostalgia, or simply a moment of escapism, Christmas movies offer the perfect refuge in the heart of winter. They remind us of the importance of bonds, generosity, and sometimes even believing in the impossible. This varied and timeless selection is an invitation to let yourself be carried away by the magic of cinema, to share moments of togetherness and to make every evening a little brighter. So grab a blanket, some hot chocolate, and turn on the TV: all that’s left to do is press “play.”