19 of the best Christmas movies you can stream on TV or online this Christmas and Boxing Day

So you’ve had a look across the pages of the Radio Times or flicked through the Electronic Programme Guide on your TV only to discover that there isn’t much taking your fancy.

Well thankfully, given the huge advances in modern technology, you won’t have to make do with what broadcasters want you to watch; instead, we’ve been “blessed” with streaming platforms such as Netflix, Prime Video, Apple TV+ and Disney+...

… all of which just so happen to have some of the festive season’s most quintessential films, all ready for you to pick up the remote, demand to the household you’re watching ‘Die Hard’ and then start streaming away.

In the (eventual) event you get bored over that sleepy time between Christmas and New Year, why not revisit one of the classics - or soon-to-be modern classics?

1. How The Grinch Stole Christmas (Netflix)

This live action version of the animated classic tells the story of the Grinch (played on this occasion by Jim Carrey), who tries to ruin Christmas for the Whos of Whoville, only to find that Christmas is about more than presents. 

2. A Christmas Story (Prime Video)

Set in the 1940s, this beloved holiday film follows Ralphie as he dreams of getting a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. With its unforgettable moments and quotable lines, it’s become a perennial favourite during the holiday season.

3. The Muppet Christmas Carol (Disney+)

The Muppets take on Charles Dickens’ classic tale in this musical version that brings humour, heart, and holiday cheer. Michael Caine plays Scrooge, with Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, and the rest of the Muppets adding their signature charm.

4. A Nonsense Christmas with Sabrina Carpenter (Disney+)

Sabrina Carpenter leads this whimsical Christmas special that blends fun and festive chaos with a fresh, musical take on the season. It’s perfect for fans of light-hearted holiday cheer.

5. A Charlie Brown Christmas (Disney+)

A holiday classic that brings the heart-warming tale of Charlie Brown’s quest to find the true meaning of Christmas. It’s a touching, nostalgic journey for both children and adults, featuring the iconic jazz score by Vince Guaraldi.

6. Last Christmas (Prime Video)

A romantic comedy with a twist, this film follows Kate (Emilia Clarke), a woman working as an elf in a Christmas store, who unexpectedly falls for a man who changes her life. Set against a festive backdrop, it’s a mix of love, life lessons, and Christmas cheer.

7. Mariah Carey’s Magical Christmas Special (Apple TV+)

The queen of Christmas herself, Mariah Carey, stars in this star-studded holiday spectacular, filled with music, fun, and holiday magic. It’s a must-watch for anyone who enjoys Mariah’s iconic Christmas hits.

8. Nativity (Netflix/BBC iPlayer)

A feel-good family film set in a British school where a group of children’s chaotic attempts at a nativity play lead to unexpected success. With plenty of humour and heart, it’s a modern holiday favourite. Those without a Netflix account but a TV license can watch the film on BBC iPlayer too.

9. The Holiday (Netflix)

Two women swap homes for Christmas in this heart-warming romantic comedy, where they find love, self-discovery, and unexpected friendships. Starring Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, and Jack Black, this one has become a go-to holiday rom-com. 

10. The Nightmare Before Christmas (Disney+)

Tim Burton’s stop-motion animated film is a whimsical tale about Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, who discovers Christmas Town and tries to bring the holiday to his own world. A visually stunning and unique holiday classic.

11. Planes, Trains and Automobiles (Prime Video)

This iconic road-trip comedy stars John Candy and Steve Martin as mismatched travel companions trying to get home for Thanksgiving. Though not strictly a Christmas movie, its themes of friendship and perseverance during the holiday season have made it a holiday favourite. 

12. Scrooged (Prime Video)

A modern, comedic retelling of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” this film stars Bill Murray as a cynical TV executive who’s visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. It’s a fun and sharp-witted spin on the classic tale.

13. Home Alone (Disney+)

Could it really be a Christmas movie list without "Home Alone?" Kevin McCallister is accidentally left behind when his family goes on vacation, and he must defend his home from burglars in the smash hit comedy from the late John Hughes - once again on our list. 

14. White Christmas (Prime Video)

Set during World War II, this classic musical film follows two soldiers who team up with a singing and dancing duo to put on a holiday show and help their former general. With iconic songs like “White Christmas,” it’s a timeless celebration of the season.

15. That Christmas (Netflix)

This 2024 animated holiday film from Netflix follows a series of interwoven stories about love, loneliness, family, and, of course, a very large number of turkeys! Directed by Simon Otto in his feature debut and based on Richard Curtis’s children’s book trilogy That Christmas and Other Stories, the film features an all-star voice cast including Brian Cox, Fiona Shaw, Jodie Whittaker, and Bill Nighy.

16. Frozen II (Disney+)

The sequel to the iconic Frozen, this film follows Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, and Olaf as they embark on a journey to uncover the truth about Elsa’s powers. It’s a stunning visual adventure with a deeper exploration of family and self-discovery.

17. Guardians of the Galaxy Christmas Special (Disney+)

The Guardians celebrate Christmas in their unique, irreverent way in this festive special - and knowing wink to the critically panned "Star Wars Christmas Special". Full of humour, holiday cheer, and Marvel magic, it’s a fun, action-packed way to get into the Christmas spirit.

18.  Spirited (Apple TV+)

This musical comedy reimagines the classic tale of "A Christmas Carol" through the eyes of a modern-day Scrooge (Ryan Reynolds), who is visited by a ghostly trio led by Will Ferrell. With musical numbers and plenty of humour, it's a fresh take on the beloved story. 

19. The Velveteen Rabbit (Apple TV+)

A beautiful, animated adaptation of the beloved children’s story about a stuffed rabbit who longs to become real through the love of a child. It’s a touching, magical tale about love, friendship, and the magic of childhood. |