Must-Watch Modern Christmas Movies: Best Holiday Films of the 2020s and Beyond

Hey everyone, it's that cozy time of year again when I love curling up with a hot cocoa and diving into some festive films. As someone who's always on the hunt for fresh holiday watches that go beyond the classics, I've curated my personal list of must-watch modern Christmas movies. These are the ones that have captured that perfect holiday magic in recent years—heartwarming, funny, romantic, action-packed, and even a little twisted. I've handpicked these gems and can't wait to share why they give me all the Christmas vibes. Let's deck the halls with these standout picks!

Heartwarming Holiday Classics

Nothing beats those films that wrap you in warmth and remind you of the joy of the season. These two always leave me with a big smile and a full heart.

The Holdovers (2023)

I absolutely adore The Holdovers—it's become an instant favorite in my holiday rotation. Set in a snowy 1970s boarding school, it follows a grumpy teacher (Paul Giamatti in top form), a mischievous student, and a grieving cook who end up spending Christmas break together. What starts as reluctant companionship turns into unexpected bonds and personal growth. The witty dialogue, nostalgic feel, and subtle humor make it so relatable and touching. Watching it always fills me with that cozy, reflective Christmas spirit—it made me tear up but in the best way, reminding me how the holidays can bring out the good in people.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (2024)

This one is pure delight and a fresh adaptation of the beloved book. It follows the chaotic Herdman kids—the "worst kids in town"—who take over the local church's Christmas pageant and end up transforming it (and everyone around them) in hilarious and heartfelt ways. The mischief, redemption, and genuine laughs had me grinning the whole time. It's got that classic family-friendly charm with a modern twist, and the way it captures the true meaning of Christmas left me feeling uplifted and festive. Perfect for watching with loved ones!

Romantic Christmas Movies Full of Love

For those nights when I want romance with my holiday cheer, these films hit all the right notes—sweet, swoony, and full of seasonal sparkle.

Happiest Season (2020)

Happiest Season is my go-to for a modern rom-com with real heart. It follows Abby planning to propose to her girlfriend Harper during a family Christmas visit, only to discover Harper hasn't come out to her conservative parents yet. The mix of awkward family dynamics, genuine emotions, and laugh-out-loud moments feels so authentic. Kristen Stewart and Mackenzie Davis have incredible chemistry, and it made me feel seen while wrapping me in holiday warmth. It's emotional, funny, and ultimately joyful—pure Christmas romance vibes that linger long after.

Last Christmas (2019)

I love how Last Christmas blends whimsy, romance, and a touch of magic. Emilia Clarke shines as Kate, a cynical elf in a year-round Christmas shop who meets the charming Tom (Henry Golding). As she navigates life post-illness and family drama, their connection sparks hope and healing. The George Michael-inspired soundtrack is perfection, and the twist adds emotional depth. It left me teary-eyed but hopeful, with that glowing holiday feel of second chances and love—ideal for a feel-good festive night.

Explosive Action-Packed Christmas Movies

Sometimes I crave holiday thrills with high stakes and big laughs—these deliver non-stop excitement with a festive twist.

Red One (2024)

Red One is my adrenaline-pumping pick for holiday action. Dwayne Johnson plays Santa's head of security, teaming up with Chris Evans' bounty hunter when Santa gets kidnapped. It's packed with wild chases, mythical creatures, and over-the-top fun. The banter between the leads is hilarious, and the North Pole spectacle gives it epic Christmas energy. It had me cheering and laughing—perfect for when I want festive chaos that still celebrates the season's magic.

Violent Night (2022)

This one's a wild ride! David Harbour as a battle-hardened Santa fighting mercenaries on Christmas Eve is genius. It's gory, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt, with nods to classic action flicks. The mix of brutal fights and holiday spirit made me howl with laughter while feeling the warmth of redemption. It's got that naughty-list edge but ends on a high note—my guilty pleasure for a thrilling Christmas vibe.

Fantasy Meets the Real World Christmas Movies

These blend magical holiday wonder with everyday chaos in the most enchanting ways.

Candy Cane Lane (2023)

Eddie Murphy in Candy Cane Lane is holiday gold. He plays a dad obsessed with winning his neighborhood's decorating contest, accidentally unleashing chaos from the 12 Days of Christmas song via a mischievous elf. The wild visuals, family antics, and laughs are non-stop. It captured that over-the-top festive spirit perfectly, leaving me giggling and in awe of the creativity—pure magical mayhem.

Noelle (2019)

Disney's Noelle with Anna Kendrick as Santa's daughter is charming and whimsical. When her brother bails on the Santa gig, Noelle heads to the real world to find him, spreading joy along the way. The fish-out-of-water humor, heart, and holiday magic are spot-on. It made me feel all warm and believing again—classic Disney Christmas enchantment.

Twisted Christmas Traditions Movies

For when I want something offbeat and unconventional—these subvert the holidays in the best, most entertaining ways.

Anna and the Apocalypse (2017)

This zombie musical is brilliantly bonkers! Teens fight undead during a Christmas apocalypse, complete with catchy songs and gore. The blend of horror, humor, and heart is unique, and the festive setting adds irony. It had me singing along while on the edge of my seat—twisted holiday fun that feels fresh every watch.

Spirited (2022)

A musical twist on A Christmas Carol with Ryan Reynolds and Will Ferrell? Yes please! Ferrell as the Ghost of Christmas Present "haunts" Reynolds' cynical exec in spectacular song-and-dance numbers. The humor, heart, and modern spin are infectious. It left me buzzing with joy and holiday spirit—brilliantly reimagined.

The Night Before (2015)

Seth Rogen, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Anthony Mackie on a wild Christmas Eve quest for the ultimate party—it's raunchy, heartfelt friendship fun. The drugs, laughs, and emotional moments balance perfectly. It captures that chaotic holiday night-out vibe, always leaving me in stitches and feeling nostalgic.

See also: 20 Most Loved Christmas Movies to Watch This Holiday Season

There you have it—my personal roundup of modern Christmas movies that never fail to get me in the spirit. Whether you're after tears, laughs, thrills, or twists, these have it all. Which ones have you seen, or what's next on your list? Drop a comment below—I'd love to hear your faves! Merry watching, friends!