As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better way to get into the festive spirit than by cozying up with a beloved Christmas movie. But with so many options to choose from, where do you begin? Fear not, because we’ve enlisted the help of some of the film industry’s most respected names to curate the ultimate holiday movie advent calendar. From heartwarming classics to unconventional favorites, these 24 films are sure to add some extra sparkle to your Christmas countdown.
A Star-Studded Selection
Our panel of celebrity film enthusiasts includes acclaimed directors like Gurinder Chadha (Bend It Like Beckham), Mike Leigh (Secrets & Lies), and Richard Eyre (Notes on a Scandal), as well as beloved actors such as Gillian Anderson (The X-Files), Joe Alwyn (The Favourite), and Himesh Patel (Yesterday). Each contributor has chosen a film that captures the essence of the holiday season for them, offering a diverse and exciting array of recommendations.
Timeless Classics and Hidden Gems
Among the selections, you’ll find beloved classics like It’s a Wonderful Life, picked by Gurinder Chadha for its ability to make viewers “feel connected to humanity,” and Miracle on 34th Street, chosen by Carol Morley for its exploration of belief and the way it transports her back to a time when she knew Father Christmas existed. But there are also lesser-known treasures, such as the Irish animated film Song of the Sea, which Jamie Demetriou praises for its lovingly crafted animation and emotional resonance.
When I watch it, it’s 1994 and I’m in my pyjamas, excited about Christmas, fixated on my Advent calendar and full of that pure hygge feeling.
– Leila Farzad on Home Alone 2
Festive Favorites and Personal Connections
For many of our contributors, their chosen films are deeply tied to personal holiday memories. Leila Farzad, for instance, can’t imagine Christmas without Home Alone 2, which transports her back to the excitement and comfort of the season during her childhood. Similarly, Himesh Patel associates the Lord of the Rings trilogy with Christmas, as they were released during the holiday season and became a cultural touchstone for his generation.
Offbeat Choices and Genre-Bending Picks
Not all the films on this list are traditional Christmas fare. Director John Waters, known for his subversive and transgressive work, chose the controversial horror film Christmas Evil, calling it “the only Christmas movie I like” for its dark and disturbing take on the holiday. Other unconventional picks include the gothic romance Phantom Thread, the sci-fi thriller The Dead Zone, and the acerbic family drama The Lion in Winter.
Whether you’re in the mood for a feel-good classic, an offbeat discovery, or a genre-bending surprise, this celebrity-curated advent calendar has something for every taste. So grab some hot cocoa, settle in, and let these 24 films guide you through a truly memorable holiday season filled with the magic of cinema.
- It’s a Wonderful Life (Frank Capra, 1946)
- Carol (Todd Haynes, 2015)
- The Snowman (Jimmy T Murakami and Dianne Jackson, 1982)
- Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (Chris Columbus, 1992)
- The Lion in Winter (Anthony Harvey, 1968)
| Director | Film Choice | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Sean Baker | Tokyo Godfathers | 2003 |
| Mike Leigh | Radio Days | 1987 |
| John Waters | Christmas Evil | 1980 |
No matter which films you choose to watch this holiday season, remember that the real magic of Christmas lies in the joy of sharing experiences with loved ones. So gather your family and friends, pass the popcorn, and embark on a cinematic journey that celebrates the warmth, nostalgia, and wonder of this most wonderful time of the year.
