The Best Comfort Christmas Films to Watch in 2023

Yes, I know, ANOTHER Christmas movie list. I promise to try and give you a fresh perspective on Christmas movies to add to your list. I have a curated selection of my go-to movies every holiday season to cozy up with while sipping a mug of hot chocolate. These handpicked choices represent the best comfort Christmas films to watch this year!

 

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001) 

Harry Potter and Ron Weasley engaged in a strategic game of Wizard's Chess, reminiscent of the immersive joy found in the best comfort Christmas films. Hermione Granger observes with keen interest, studying their moves and tactics in awe.

The Christmas vibes of this movie are off the charts. The first two Harry Potter movies make me feel warm, fuzzy, and nostalgic. Something about the film grade and soundtrack makes me feel extremely cozy and warm. This is a must-watch for me every year. 

Where to watch: HBO Max (Crave) 

 

You’ve Got Mail (1998) 

Joe Fox (Tom Hanks) and Kathleen Kelly (Meg Ryan) sit face to face in a cozy diner, sharing a moment of connection, akin to the heartwarming ambiance found in the best comfort Christmas films. Their eyes meet with a mix of curiosity and anticipation as they engage in conversation, unaware of each other's true identity as online pen pals.

Nothing beats a 90s rom-com set in New York. This movie is a perfect Thanksgiving AND Christmas watch. The winter fashion, cozy NYC bookstore, and cafes make this the perfect holiday watch. Meg Ryan looks extra gorgeous and her chemistry with Tom Hanks is unmatched. 

Where to watch: Netflix 

 

How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) 

In 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas,' the Grinch points upwards with a mischievous grin towards Cindy Lou Who as she stands before him, evoking the heartwarming charm akin to the best comfort Christmas films. Cindy Lou Who displays a mix of curiosity and innocence, adding to the festive allure of the scene.

Now this one is a classic and you have probably already watched it but I had to put this on my list. The Grinch’s redemption arc always brings a tear to my eye. Join the Grinch and the residents of Whoville on their journey of discovering the true meaning of Christmas. The sets are beautiful and I always love putting this one on when I do my Christmas gift-wrapping. 

Where to watch: Paramount+ 

 

Charlie And The Chocolate Factory (2005) 

Charlie leads the group on a captivating tour through the whimsical and vibrant grounds of Willy Wonka's chocolate factory, reminiscent of the enchanting and magical essence found in the best comfort Christmas films. His face lights up with wonder as he showcases the magical and fantastical elements to his wide-eyed companions.

This movie is not talked about enough as a holiday movie. With the new Wonka movie coming out soon, this is the perfect time to give this a watch and get yourself ready to eat all the good Christmas treats. The whimsical factory and colorful sets always evoke the spirit of the best comfort Christmas films, putting me in a festive mood.

Where to watch: Netflix 

 

Bridget Jones Diary (2001) 

Renee Zellweger's character in Bridget Jones's Diary sits comfortably cross-legged, immersed in a pile of magazines, flipping through them with a mix of curiosity and contemplation, reminiscent of the cozy and heartwarming scenes found in the best comfort Christmas films. Her search through the magazines reflects a quest for guidance or inspiration, adding to the film's relatable charm.

Frazzled Englishwoman looks for love in London while working in publication. Not sold yet? She has to pick between Colin Firth and Hugh Grant. This is one of my comfort movies and I still cannot believe Renée Zellweger is American. 

Where to watch: Amazon Prime

 

Love Hard (2021) 

Jimmy O Yang and Nina Dobrev's characters in Love Hard stand outside, holding a boombox, sharing a heartfelt moment reminiscent of the tender and heartwarming scenes found in the best comfort Christmas films. Their faces show a mix of emotions, possibly conveying affection, vulnerability, or a romantic gesture, adding to the film's endearing charm.

This movie pleasantly surprised me. I am usually not the biggest fan of Netflix Christmas movies but this movie was better written, well executed, and felt straight out of the 2000s despite having released only a couple of years ago. I enjoyed this one and I highly recommend it. 

Where to watch: Netflix

 

Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992) 

Kevin McCallister, portrayed by Macaulay Culkin, turns back to the camera with a mischievous grin outside Radio City Music Hall in Home Alone 2, evoking the playful and heartwarming moments reminiscent of the best comfort Christmas films. His expression hints at a clever plan or a playful moment amidst the bustling cityscape of New York, adding to the film's festive and charming ambiance.

Christmas in New York! That’s it. I know some people are frustrated by the timeline of Kevin’s adventures around Manhattan given how far everything is but logic aside, this movie is stunning and I have dreamt of spending my Christmas in New York at the Plaza ever since. The first one of the series is a classic but this one is also a must-watch. 

Where to watch: Disney+

 

Tokyo Godfathers (2003)

A group of characters from 'Tokyo Godfathers' gaze directly at the viewer, their expressions varied: some curious, some serious, and one character tenderly cradling a baby in their arms. Their eyes convey emotions reminiscent of the heartwarming and sentimental moments found in the best comfort Christmas films, inviting the viewer into their compelling and touching story.

This is an unconventional one but is one of the most beautiful and heartwarming movies I have watched making it one of the best comfort Christmas films. It is an anime and you can watch it subbed or dubbed. This movie is a sentimental story of three homeless people in Tokyo who discover an abandoned baby and set out on a mission to reunite the baby with its parents. 

Where to watch: YouTube, AppleTV (for rent/purchase) 

 

That concludes my list for this year. Hopefully, this will keep you going until Christmas! Comment below what other movies you love watching around this time of the year. Stay warm and cozy!

If you liked this post and would like to see my favourite Halloween movies check out this post!

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