The Best Movies Released Christmas Day
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Only movies initially released (or wide-released) in theaters in the USA on December 25th.
1Kurt Russell, Val Kilmer, Michael BiehnTombstone, a captivating Western drama, unravels the story of an infamous lawman, Wyatt Earp (Kurt Russell), who retires to Tombstone, Arizona. He's accompanied by his brothers and Doc Holliday (Val Kilmer), a volatile gambler. As they strive for a peaceful life, their tranquility is shattered by the ruthless Cowboy gang. The ensuing conflict leads to the legendary Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. The movie brims with high-stakes confrontations and historic characters, offering an intense exploration of brotherhood and justice in the dangerous Wild West.More Tombstone
2Gregory Peck, Mary Badham, Phillip AlfordSet in the throes of the Great Depression, To Kill a Mockingbird unfolds in a sleepy Southern town where racial tension simmers beneath the surface. Scout Finch (Mary Badham) and her older brother Jem (Phillip Alford) navigate their childhood under the watchful eyes of their father, Atticus Finch (Gregory Peck). Peck's portrayal earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor. This film adaptation of Harper Lee's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel delves into themes of racism, morality, and innocence lost. The story climaxes when Atticus, a principled lawyer, defends Tom Robinson (Brock Peters), a black man unjustly accused of rape, inciting a flurry of societal backlash.More To Kill a Mockingbird- #1 of 49 onThe Top 45+ Films Released In 1962
- #348 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #9 of 369 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
3Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hanks, Christopher WalkenIn the thrilling film Catch Me If You Can, we follow the intriguing escapades of Frank Abagnale Jr. (Leonardo DiCaprio), a master of deception and a skilled forger. With his cunning, he successfully poses as a pilot, doctor, and lawyer, all while cashing millions in fraudulent checks. Hot on his heels is seasoned FBI agent Carl Hanratty (Tom Hanks), who's made it his mission to capture him. Navigating through this cat-and-mouse game, the movie explores themes of identity and deception. Directed by Steven Spielberg, this biographical crime film was nominated for two Academy Awards.More Catch Me If You Can- Dig Deeper...Don't Miss These 15 Movies Like 'Catch Me if You Can'
- And Deeper...Behind-The-Scenes Stories From 'Catch Me If You Can'
- #204 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
4Paul Newman, Robert Redford, Robert ShawFollowing the murder of a mutual friend, aspiring con man Johnny Hooker (Robert Redford) teams up with old pro Henry Gondorff (Paul Newman) to take revenge on the ruthless crime boss responsible, Doyle Lonnegan (Robert Shaw). Hooker and Gondorff set about implementing an elaborate scheme, one so crafty that Lonnegan won't even know he's been swindled. As their big con unfolds, however, things don't go according to plan, requiring some last-minute improvisation by the undaunted duo.More The Sting- #14 of 96 onThe Very Best Oscar-Winning Movies For Best Picture
- #620 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #87 of 190 onThe Best Movies For Men
5Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, Leonardo DiCaprioDjango Unchained, a Quentin Tarantino film, is an audacious blend of spaghetti western and blaxploitation genres. The narrative follows Django (Jamie Foxx), a freed slave turned bounty hunter, on a perilous mission to rescue his wife Broomhilda (Kerry Washington) from the clutches of a ruthless plantation owner, Calvin Candie (Leonardo DiCaprio). Dr. King Schultz (Christoph Waltz), a German dentist-turned-bounty-hunter, acts as Django's mentor in this journey. Brimming with Tarantino's trademark violence and dark humor, the film won two Academy Awards - Best Original Screenplay for Tarantino and Best Supporting Actor for Waltz.More Django Unchained- Dig Deeper...The 25 Best Movies Like 'Django Unchained', Ranked By Fans
- #98 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #598 of 702 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
6Robert Downey, Jude Law, Rachel McAdamsSherlock Holmes, a gripping detective thriller, plunges you into the foggy lanes of 1890s London. The iconic detective Sherlock Holmes (Robert Downey Jr.) and his loyal companion Dr. John Watson (Jude Law) navigate a web of mystery, deception, and danger. From shadowy alleys to opulent mansions, they unravel a plot that threatens the entire city. With wit sharper than any blade and courage unwavering in the face of peril, this dynamic duo battles black magic and brute force alike. Directed by Guy Ritchie, this film is a thrilling ride into the mind of literature's greatest detective.More Sherlock Holmes- #228 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #135 of 228 onThe 200+ Best Film Scores Of All Time
- #10 of 79 onGreat Period Movies Set in the 19th Century
7Jack Lemmon, Walter Matthau, Ann-MargretJohn Gustafson (Jack Lemmon) and Max Goldman (Walter Matthau) are two curmudgeonly neighbors who have been at each other's throats for years. The rivalry of the former friends intensifies when Ariel (Ann-Margret) comes along and provides a love interest for both of them. When Max finds out that John is experiencing family troubles and financial ruin, however, he steps in to help. Their bond is further cemented when John has a health scare and Max makes the ultimate sacrifice for his friend.More Grumpy Old Men- #34 of 702 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #295 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #16 of 168 onThe Best '90s Comedy Movies, Ranked
8Sebastian Cabot, Rickie Sorensen, Alan NapierIn The Sword in the Stone, a young Arthur (Rickie Sorensen) is under the tutelage of wise but eccentric Merlin (Karl Swenson), an enchanting wizard with a knack for unpredictability. Set in medieval England, this Disney classic delves into Arthur's journey from being a humble squire to the future King of England. The path isn't smooth, but with Merlin's magical lessons and friendship, the boy navigates his way through adventures and challenges that eventually lead him to pull Excalibur from the stone, signifying his royal destiny. This animated film, known for its whimsical storytelling and memorable characters, remains a beloved piece of cinema history.More The Sword in the Stone- #136 of 204 onMusical Movies With The Best Songs
- #82 of 447 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
- #70 of 369 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
9Leonardo DiCaprio, Jonah Hill, Margot RobbieIn the riveting film The Wolf of Wall Street, we follow the life of Jordan Belfort (Leonardo DiCaprio), a Wall Street stockbroker. Driven by ambition, he plunges headfirst into a world of greed and excess. His right-hand man, Donnie Azoff (Jonah Hill), aids him in his unscrupulous endeavors. The movie, directed by Martin Scorsese, showcases their rise to immense wealth and subsequent fall into crime and corruption. It's a tale fraught with fraud, manipulation, and the relentless pursuit of power. This critically acclaimed drama won multiple awards for its exceptional storytelling and stellar performances.More The Wolf of Wall Street- Dig Deeper...Behind The Scenes Of 'The Wolf of Wall Street'
- And Deeper...The 30 Best Movies Like 'Wolf of Wall Street,' Ranked By Fans
- #574 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
10Jack Nicholson, Helen Hunt, Greg KinnearIn the heart of New York City, As Good as It Gets unravels a story of unlikely friendships and personal growth. Melvin Udall (Jack Nicholson), an irascible novelist with obsessive-compulsive disorder, finds his life intertwined with that of Carol Connelly (Helen Hunt), a hardworking waitress, and Simon Bishop (Greg Kinnear), his gay artist neighbor. Directed by James L. Brooks, this comedy-drama explores their evolving relationships amidst trials and tribulations. Nicholson and Hunt's performances earned them Academy Awards for Best Actor and Actress respectively, while the film itself was nominated for Best Picture.More As Good as It Gets- #47 of 50 onThe Biggest Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
- #106 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The 1990s
- #18 of 50 onThe Best Oscar-Nominated Movies of the '90s
11Jack Nicholson, Morgan Freeman, Sean HayesIn the heartwarming comedy-drama The Bucket List, Edward Cole (Jack Nicholson), a billionaire hospital magnate, and Carter Chambers (Morgan Freeman), a mechanic turned trivia buff, find themselves sharing a hospital room. Both grappling with terminal illnesses, they conspire to escape the sterile confines of the hospital ward. Together, they embark on an unforgettable journey around the globe, ticking off items from their 'bucket list' - a catalogue of things they want to see and do before they kick the bucket. This poignant tale weaves together humor and sentimentality in equal measure, highlighting life's simple pleasures amidst profound moments of reflection.More The Bucket List- #25 of 30 on30 Words And Phrases You Might Not Realize Originated From A Movie Or TV Show
- #49 of 90 onThe 85+ Most Inspirational Movies Of All Time
- #41 of 139 onThe Best Movies Of 2007
12Tim Allen, Sigourney Weaver, Alan RickmanIn Galaxy Quest, a group of washed-up TV actors, led by Jason Nesmith (Tim Allen), find themselves in an interstellar dilemma. Known for their roles in a once-popular sci-fi show, they're mistaken for real space explorers by a group of aliens desperate for help. The crew, including Gwen DeMarco (Sigourney Weaver) and Alexander Dane (Alan Rickman), are unwittingly thrust into a genuine space adventure. This comedy-science fiction film cleverly parodies genre tropes, offering a comedic twist on the classic space opera narrative. The movie was well received upon release and won the prestigious Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation.More Galaxy Quest- Dig Deeper...Why 'Galaxy Quest' Is Pretty Much The Best 'Star Trek' Movie Ever Made
- #318 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #15 of 115 on50+ Movies That Need Sequels
13Brad Pitt, Cate Blanchett, Taraji P. HensonIn the intriguing film The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, we explore the unique life of Benjamin Button (Brad Pitt), a man who ages in reverse. Born as an old man in 1918 New Orleans, Benjamin's peculiar condition sees him growing younger with time. His journey is intertwined with love interest Daisy Fuller (Cate Blanchett). A tale that spans across decades, it captures historical events shaping their lives. Directed by David Fincher, this movie won three Academy Awards and challenges conventional storytelling with its blend of drama and fantasy genres.- #147 of 369 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #64 of 80 on80 Good Long Movies To Watch, Ranked
- #18 of 55 onThe Saddest Romance Movies That Will Make You Cry
14Anne Hathaway, Amanda Seyfried, Hugh JackmanLes Misérables is a 2012 musical drama film directed by Tom Hooper, based on the 1862 French novel of the same name by Victor Hugo, which also inspired a 1980 concept album and 1985 musical by Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg. Set in France during the early 19th century, the film tells the story of Jean Valjean (Hugh Jackman), an ex-convict who decides to turn his life around.More Les Miserables- #674 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #11 of 204 onMusical Movies With The Best Songs
- #77 of 369 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
15Leonardo DiCaprio, Cate Blanchett, Kate BeckinsaleIn The Aviator, we journey through the life of Howard Hughes (Leonardo DiCaprio), an ambitious industrialist and film tycoon. Struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder, he nonetheless achieves enormous success in aviation and Hollywood. The award-winning movie, directed by Martin Scorsese, showcases Hughes' achievements, including creating a world-class airline and producing big-budget films. Cate Blanchett plays Katharine Hepburn, Hughes's love interest and one of several starlets in his life. A drama based on true events, The Aviator is a testament to one man's triumphs and tribulations in the face of adversity.More The Aviator- #85 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- #226 of 228 onThe 200+ Best Film Scores Of All Time
- #45 of 80 on80 Good Long Movies To Watch, Ranked
16Clive Owen, Julianne Moore, Michael CaineIn the dystopian genre film Children of Men, humanity grapples with infertility, a crisis threatening extinction. The protagonist, Theo Faron (Clive Owen), is a disillusioned bureaucrat who gets entangled in a mission to protect the world's only pregnant woman. Julian Taylor (Julianne Moore), an activist and Theo's ex-lover, leads this desperate quest for survival. The movie, directed by Alfonso Cuarón, won acclaim for its immersive storytelling and technical excellence, particularly its long-take action sequences. It offers a bleak yet poignant exploration of hope amid despair, challenging viewers to reflect on society's resilience in the face of impending doom.More Children of Men- #17 of 165 onThe 150+ Best Futuristic Dystopian Movies
- #734 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #203 of 369 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- 17Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hardy, Domhnall GleesonBristling with raw survivalism, The Revenant chronicles the harrowing journey of Hugh Glass (Leonardo DiCaprio), a frontiersman left for dead in the 1820s wilderness after a bear attack. Tossed aside by his hunting team, including callous John Fitzgerald (Tom Hardy), Glass is driven by sheer will and an insatiable desire for retribution. Alejandro González Iñárritu's rugged epic won three Academy Awards, including Best Director, while DiCaprio snagged his long-awaited Best Actor Oscar. A stark portrayal of human endurance against nature's brutality, The Revenant is a visceral exploration of revenge, resilience, and redemption.More The Revenant
- #72 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #64 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- #41 of 126 onThe 100+ Grossest Movies Ever
18Jason Scott Lee, Cary Elwes, Lena HeadeyWhen his father is killed by a jungle tiger, Mowgli (Jason Scott Lee) is orphaned and grows up in the wild, raised by animals. Years later, the bracelet given to him by his childhood friend, Kitty (Lena Headey), is stolen. In pursuing it, he discovers Monkey City with all its treasures. He is reunited with Kitty, but struggles to adapt to civilization. When Kitty's unscrupulous suitor, Capt. Boone (Cary Elwes), attempts to raid the jungle of its treasures, Mowgli's life is imperiled.
19Jean-Claude Donda, Eilidh Rankin, Duncan MacNeilMagic tricks can't compete with rock 'n' roll in the 1950s, so a French illusionist (Jean-Claude Donda) finds himself touring Scotland's shabby pubs and run-down restaurants. But things brighten for him when he meets Alice (Eilidh Rankin), a girl who believes his powers are real. Together they travel to Edinburgh for a performance, but he doesn't have the heart to reveal that his feats are merely tricks, and risks financial ruin by giving her gifts supplied by his "magic."
20Samuel L. Jackson, Kurt Russell, Jennifer Jason LeighIn Quentin Tarantino's The Hateful Eight, a western thriller, bounty hunter John Ruth (Kurt Russell) escorts fugitive Daisy Domergue (Jennifer Jason Leigh) through wild Wyoming winter. On their path, they encounter two strangers: Major Marquis Warren (Samuel L. Jackson), a former Civil War soldier turned infamous bounty hunter, and Chris Mannix (Walton Goggins), a southern renegade claiming to be the town's new Sheriff. A blizzard forces them to seek refuge at Minnie's Haberdashery, a stagecoach stopover. Inside, they confront four more strangers and the tension mounts as betrayal and deception unfold amidst a brewing storm. The film bagged three Academy Award nominations.More The Hateful Eight- #152 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #149 of 190 onThe Best Movies For Men
- #60 of 80 on80 Good Long Movies To Watch, Ranked
- 21Owen Wilson, Jennifer Aniston, Eric DaneIn the heartwarming comedy-drama film Marley & Me, John Grogan (Owen Wilson) and his wife, Jennifer (Jennifer Aniston), navigate the challenges of marriage and journalism. In an attempt to test their readiness for parenthood, they adopt a Labrador Retriever puppy, Marley. The mischievous yet lovable Marley brings chaos and unexpected life lessons into their lives. This family-oriented movie is filled with humor and heartfelt moments, showing the profound impact one dog can have on a family unit. Directed by David Frankel, this film beautifully illustrates that even in the messiest situations, love prevails.More Marley & Me
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- #137 of 188 onThe 180+ Top Kids Movies
22Sean Penn, Adrien Brody, Jim CaviezelThe Thin Red Line, a war drama directed by Terrence Malick, paints a visceral picture of the Battle of Guadalcanal during World War II. The film's narrative primarily revolves around Private Witt (Jim Caviezel), who is forced to confront his own morality amidst the chaos of battle. Other central characters include First Sgt. Welsh (Sean Penn) and Lt. Col. Tall (Nick Nolte), each grappling with their roles within the brutal realities of war. The movie garnered seven Academy Award nominations, testament to its impactful storytelling and powerful performances.More The Thin Red Line- #48 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #200 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The 1990s
- #210 of 228 onThe 200+ Best Film Scores Of All Time
23Robin Williams, Daniel London, Monica PotterIn the heartwarming drama Patch Adams, Robin Williams portrays Hunter Patch Adams, a man who refuses to be just another cog in the impersonal machinery of medical care. Instead, he reinvents himself as a doctor with a difference, one who treats patients with laughter and unconventional methods. Set against the backdrop of a rigid medical institution, Patch challenges the status quo with his unique approach. This film is an exploration of one man's unorthodox but effective take on healthcare, highlighting the power of humor and humanity in healing.More Patch Adams- #67 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- #86 of 168 onThe Best '90s Comedy Movies, Ranked
- #57 of 98 onThe Best Movies Of 1998, Ranked
24Matt Damon, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jude LawIn The Talented Mr. Ripley, a psychological thriller, Tom Ripley (Matt Damon), a man of modest means, is sent to Italy to bring back the wayward son of a wealthy businessman. Dickie Greenleaf (Jude Law), the playboy heir, and his girlfriend Marge Sherwood (Gwyneth Paltrow) introduce Ripley to a world of elegance and luxury he's never known. As he becomes more entwined in their lavish lifestyle, Ripley resorts to deceit, fraud and even murder to maintain it. Directed by Anthony Minghella, this film earned five Oscar nominations.More The Talented Mr. Ripley- #88 of 253 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #213 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The 1990s
- #204 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
25Jason Robards, Julianne Moore, Tom CruiseMagnolia, a dramatic film directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, is an intricate tapestry of interconnected stories. It features characters like Jimmy Gator (Philip Baker Hall), a beloved game show host with a dark secret, and Claudia Wilson Gator (Melora Walters), his estranged daughter struggling with addiction. As their stories intertwine with others, such as Frank T.J. Mackey (Tom Cruise), a motivational speaker with his own hidden past, the narrative explores themes of redemption and forgiveness. The movie was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actor for Tom Cruise's standout performance. This complex and emotionally charged drama is renowned for its unique storytelling style and compelling performances.More Magnolia- #281 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The 1990s
- #229 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- #68 of 80 on80 Good Long Movies To Watch, Ranked
26Al Pacino, Diane Keaton, Bridget FondaThe Godfather Part III is a 1990 American film written by Mario Puzo and Francis Ford Coppola, and directed by Coppola. It completes the story of Michael Corleone, a Mafia kingpin who tries to legitimize his empire. The film also weaves into its plot a fictionalized account of two real-life events; both are linked with the affairs of Michael Corleone. The film stars Al Pacino, Diane Keaton, Talia Shire, and Andy GarcÃa, and features Eli Wallach, Joe Mantegna, George Hamilton, Bridget Fonda, and Sofia Coppola.More The Godfather Part III- #220 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The 1990s
- #253 of 279 on'Old' Movies Every Young Person Needs To Watch In Their Lifetime
- #38 of 94 onThe 90+ Best Mafia Movies Of All Time
27Woody Harrelson, Courtney Love, Ed NortonPursued by opponents who say his "Hustler" magazine breaks decency laws, pornographer Larry Flynt (Woody Harrelson) hires lawyer Alan Isaacman (Edward Norton) to help fight his legal battles. A zealot shoots the men near a Georgia courthouse, and though Flynt discovers he'll never walk again, his fighting spirit -- like his love for stripper Althea Leasure (Courtney Love) -- stays strong. Ultimately, the unlikely free speech warrior takes his biggest case to a showdown at the Supreme Court.- #107 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- #219 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The 1990s
- #250 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
28George MacKay, Dean-Charles Chapman, Mark StrongIn the heart-pounding war film 1917, two young British soldiers, Lance Corporal Schofield (George MacKay) and Lance Corporal Blake (Dean-Charles Chapman), embark on a seemingly impossible mission during World War I. Tasked with delivering a message deep in enemy territory, they must traverse treacherous landscapes and evade deadly traps to prevent their comrades, including Blake's brother, from walking into a fatal ambush. Directed by Sam Mendes, this thrilling epic won multiple awards including three Oscars for its technical prowess. A blend of drama, action and history, 1917 offers a gripping depiction of courage and determination amidst the horrors of war.More 1917- #18 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #86 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- #33 of 78 onThe Greatest Movies To Watch Outside
29Will Ferrell, Mark Wahlberg, Linda CardelliniBrad Whitaker (Will Ferrell) is a kindhearted radio executive who wants to be the best possible stepfather to his wife's (Linda Cardellini) two children. When her freewheeling ex-husband, Dusty (Mark Wahlberg), breezes back into town, Brad's feeling of insecurity quickly develops into an inferiority complex. As Dusty demonstrates his flair for athletics, home repair and bad-boy charisma, Whitaker finds himself in a no-holds-barred battle to one-up his rival and win the approval of his family.More Daddy's Home- #9 of 92 onThe 75+ Best Family Comedy Movies
- #33 of 77 onThe Best Father's Day Movies
- #11 of 15 onThe Best Movies With Step Parents
30Jack O'Connell, Domhnall Gleeson, Garrett HedlundAs a boy, Louis "Louie" Zamperini is always in trouble, but with the help of his older brother, he turns his life around and channels his energy into running, later qualifying for the 1936 Olympics. When World War II breaks out, Louie enlists in the military. After his plane crashes in the Pacific, he survives an incredible 47 days adrift in a raft, until his capture by the Japanese navy. Sent to a POW camp, Louie becomes the favorite target of a particularly cruel prison commander.More Unbroken- #118 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #11 of 44 onThe 40+ Best Lost At Sea Movies
- #61 of 81 onThe Best Films Directed By Famous Actors, Ranked
