10 Underrated Christmas Movies You Need to Watch

Where to Watch: Hulu

Starring Kristen Stewart as Abby and Mackenzie Davis as Harper, this romantic comedy follows Abby as she plans to propose during a Christmas visit with Harper’s family. Trouble starts when Abby learns Harper has not come out to her parents, including her strict father and cheerful sister. Directed by Clea DuVall, the movie mixes awkward humor with emotional moments. It explores family pressure, honesty, and love while keeping a warm and modern Christmas atmosphere.

Where to Watch: Netflix

Directed by David E. Talbert, this musical fantasy stars Forest Whitaker as Jeronicus Jangle, a famous toy maker who loses both his invention and his happiness after a betrayal. Years later, his creative granddaughter Journey comes to stay with him for Christmas. Her energy slowly changes his life. Filled with bright visuals, songs, and magical toys, the movie tells a joyful story about family, hope, and second chances.

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home, Spectrum On Demand

Billy Bob Thornton plays Willie T. Stokes, a bitter thief who dresses as a mall Santa every Christmas to steal money with his partner Marcus. His rude behavior slowly changes after meeting Thurman Merman, a kind and lonely boy. Directed by Terry Zwigoff, the film is crude and very funny. While darker than most holiday movies, it still surprises viewers with moments of honesty and emotion.

Where to Watch: Hulu, fuboTV, Peacock Premium, Philo, Amazon Video, Fandango At Home, FlixFling, Apple TV, Spectrum On Demand

If you are looking for a Christmas movie that feels raw and realistic, this independent film offers something very different. Directed by Sean Baker, the story follows Sin-Dee Rella on Christmas Eve in Los Angeles after learning her boyfriend and pimp cheated on her. Joined by her friend Alexandra, she searches the city for answers. Shot on iPhones, the movie feels fast, personal, and emotionally intense.

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home, Spectrum On Deman

Set during the Christmas season in the 1950s, this romantic drama stars Cate Blanchett as Carol Aird and Rooney Mara as Therese Belivet. Directed by Todd Haynes, the film follows their quiet relationship as it grows under social pressure and strict rules. The slow pacing allows emotions to feel deep and real. Christmas serves as the moment that brings them together and changes their lives.

Where to Watch: Hulu, HBO Max, AMC, Philo, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home, Spectrum On Demand

Directed by Joe Dante, this film begins when Billy Peltzer receives a strange creature called a Mogwai as a Christmas gift. He is given three clear rules, including never feeding it after midnight. When the rules are broken, dangerous gremlins take over the town. Mixing comedy, horror, and Christmas chaos, the movie feels playful but tense, offering a bold alternative to sweet holiday classics.

Where to Watch: Amazon Video, Fandango At Home, Kanopy, Plex

Starring Henry Winkler as Benedict Slade, this TV movie retells Charles Dickens’s classic story in a new American setting. Taking place during the Great Depression, the plot follows Slade as a hard and greedy businessman. On Christmas Eve, he is visited by spirits who show him his past, present, and future. The film delivers a serious, emotional message about kindness, regret, and change.

Where to Watch: -

Inspired by a true story, this film stars Anthony LaPaglia as Frank Pesce Jr., a man who believes he brings good luck to everyone around him. His life becomes tied to gambling, crime, and family expectations. Featuring Danny Aiello as his father, the movie is set during the Christmas season. While not traditional, the holiday backdrop adds warmth and reflection to its story about fate.

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, fuboTV, MGM+, Philo, Paramount Plus, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home, FlixFling, Plex

Starring Bill Murray as Frank Cross, this modern retelling places "A Christmas Carol" in the world of television production. Directed by Richard Donner, the story follows a cruel executive who only cares about ratings and power. Visits from three spirits force him to confront his actions. Fast dialogue, dark humor, and strong performances make the film funny while still delivering an emotional Christmas message.

Where to Watch: Amazon Video, Fandango At Home, Apple TV

If you are looking for a cozy and romantic holiday movie, this fantasy romance is an easy choice. Starring Jen Lilley as Kate Jordan, the story follows her investigation of a historic inn before Christmas. She meets Daniel, a ghost who appears only during the holidays. As they grow closer, mystery and romance mix together, creating a gentle and emotional Christmas story.