The 30+ Best Winter Movies
- 1Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern
Home Alone tells the heartwarming story of young Kevin McCallister, who unwittingly defends his home against two burglars during the holiday season. A blend of slapstick comedy, elaborate booby traps, and memorable characters set against a backdrop of snow-covered homes creates an unforgettable winter experience. Home Alone has charmed generations of viewers, solidifying its reputation as a cherished holiday classic.
More Home Alone
- Dig Deeper...All The Traps In 'Home Alone' And 'Home Alone 2,' Ranked By Horrific Brutality
- #2 of 50 onThe Biggest Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
- #8 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
2James Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel BarrymoreFrank Capra's timeless classic, It's a Wonderful Life, captures the essence of the holiday spirit as it explores redemption, hope, and the importance of human connections. The film delves deep into the protagonist's life to reveal the impact of his existence on those he loves and an enchanting, snow-laden small-town setting. It's a Wonderful Life stands as an reminder of the beauty and warmth beneath the cold winter surface.
More It's a Wonderful Life- Dig Deeper...It's A Wonderful Life Is Not The Heartwarming Movie You Remember
- #279 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #41 of 149 onMovies That Should Never Be Remade
- 3Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman, Bonnie Bedelia
Set in a high-rise Los Angeles office building, Die Hard captivates its audience with a gripping narrative of one man's battle against terrorists during a Christmas Eve party. Imbued with action, humor, and a timeless winter backdrop, the film is a must-watch for anyone seeking thrilling escapades amidst a festive atmosphere. The appeal of John McClane as an unlikely hero cements Die Hard's position as a classic winter film.
More Die Hard- Dig Deeper...Is 'Die Hard' A Christmas Movie? The Internet Is Divided As The Debate Rages On
- #5 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #15 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
4Will Ferrell, James Caan, Bob NewhartIn Elf, Will Ferrell's portrayal of Buddy, a human raised by elves, delivers a magical blend of quirky charm and innocent wonder through a heartwarming adventure in New York City. The movie celebrates the holiday spirit and highlights the importance of family, love, and self-acceptance amidst a snow-sprinkled urban landscape. Elf has become a perennial favorite, earning its distinction as an unforgettable winter movie.
More Elf- #46 of 135 onThe 100+ Best Movies For Date Night
- #63 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #39 of 702 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
5Peter Billingsley, Darren McGavin, Melinda DillonA whimsical and heartwarming tale, A Christmas Story explores the innocence of childhood dreams and the nostalgia of a bygone era. Set in snowy 1940s Indiana, the film masterfully weaves together vignettes showcasing a young boy's quest for a Red Ryder BB gun despite myriad obstacles. A Christmas Story remains a quintessential winter movie that has delighted audiences for decades.
6Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo, Randy QuaidChronicling the hilarious and chaotic antics of Clark Griswold's family as they prepare for the holidays, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation resonates with viewers for its relatable humor and festive charm. The film skillfully balances slapstick comedy, heartfelt moments, and absurd situations, all set within a suburban winter wonderland. As a result, the movie has earned its place as a beloved seasonal staple.
- Dig Deeper...The Funniest Lines From 'Christmas Vacation'
- #25 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #26 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
7Boris Karloff, June Foray, Hal SmithThe timeless tale of Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! remains a beloved winter classic for its vibrant storytelling and heartwarming message. The movie captures the essence of Whoville's festive atmosphere as it juxtaposes the Grinch's transformation against a backdrop of snowy mountains and dazzling decorations. With its enchanting characters and poignant theme, the film holds a special place in the hearts of audiences worldwide.
- #93 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #24 of 447 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
- #4 of 126 onThe Best Christmas Movies Of All Time
8Tim Allen, Judge Reinhold, Wendy CrewsonWhen Scott Calvin inadvertently takes on the role of Santa, The Santa Clause plunges viewers into a whimsical world of magic and wonder. As it skillfully weaves humor, heartfelt moments, and a wondrous North Pole setting, the film reminds us of the enchantment that comes along with the winter season. The Santa Clause has become a cherished favorite, offering a delightful escape from reality.
More The Santa Clause- Dig Deeper...The 'Santa Clause' Series Is A Holiday Phantasmagoria
- #37 of 50 onThe Biggest Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
- #176 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
9Maureen O'Hara, John Payne, Edmund GwennEnsuring belief in the magic of Christmas, Miracle on 34th Street tells the story of Kris Kringle, who claims to be the real Santa Claus. Set in the bustling streets of New York City during the holiday season, the movie masterfully interconnects love, modesty, and faith through a series of unexpected events. The timeless appeal of Miracle on 34th Street solidifies its position as a winter classic.
More Miracle on 34th Street- #373 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #103 of 149 onMovies That Should Never Be Remade
- #10 of 126 onThe Best Christmas Movies Of All Time
10Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Jonathan GroffIn a kingdom trapped in an eternal winter, Disney's Frozen offers a magical journey of self-discovery, love, and friendship. As the film blends unforgettable characters, stunning visuals, and an uplifting soundtrack, it creates a spectacular winter experience for viewers of all ages. Frozen has been firmly established as a winter movie phenomenon.
More Frozen- Dig Deeper...20 Hot Takes About 'Frozen' That Refuse To Let It Go
- And Deeper...15 Easter Eggs In 'Frozen' That Are Impossible To Let Go
- #91 of 135 onThe 100+ Best Movies For Date Night
11Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel SternThe sequel to the beloved classic, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, transports viewers into another charming adventure with Kevin McCallister. This time, he finds himself battling the same burglars amidst the enchanting wintertime atmosphere of New York City. Through its blend of humor, heart, and nostalgia, Home Alone 2 continues to capture the essence of a winter adventure for generations.
- #30 of 50 onThe Biggest Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
- #187 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #177 of 702 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
12Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary ClooneyA holiday classic, White Christmas follows Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye as they bring warmth and laughter to a struggling Vermont inn. Filled with heartwarming songs, breathtaking dance numbers, and a picturesque wintry setting, this film seamlessly weaves together love, friendship, and the transformative power of music. White Christmas remains a perennial favorite, offering a nostalgic connection to the beauty of a bygone era.
More White Christmas- #38 of 204 onMusical Movies With The Best Songs
- #19 of 126 onThe Best Christmas Movies Of All Time
- #95 of 228 onThe 200+ Best Film Scores Of All Time
- 13Tom Hanks, Michael Jeter, Nona Gaye
A captivating adaptation of Chris Van Allsburg's children's book, The Polar Express follows a young boy's magical train journey to the North Pole. Told through groundbreaking animation and visual effects, the film transports viewers to a winter wonderland teeming with festive cheer, mystery, and adventure. The Polar Express continues to enchant audiences with its charm and story.
More The Polar Express- #321 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #109 of 447 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
- #15 of 126 onThe Best Christmas Movies Of All Time
- 14Bill Murray, Andie MacDowell, Chris Elliott
Bill Murray's portrayal of a weatherman trapped in a seemingly inescapable loop of February 2nd forms the crux of Groundhog Day. Set against the bone-chilling backdrop of Punxsutawney, the movie intricately weaves themes of transformation, self-improvement, and the power of love, offering a unique winter experience. Groundhog Day remains an iconic and thought-provoking film that transcends the boundaries of seasonal entertainment.
More Groundhog Day- #71 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #54 of 149 onMovies That Should Never Be Remade
- #33 of 702 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
15Bill Murray, Karen Allen, John ForsytheA modern twist on Charles Dickens' classic tale, Scrooged showcases Bill Murray's comedic brilliance as a egocentric TV executive haunted by three Christmas ghosts. Set within a bustling urban winter landscape, the film balances humor, heart, and holiday magic to deliver a refreshing seasonal experience. Scrooged remains cherished, successfully bringing the spirit of A Christmas Carol to contemporary audiences.
More Scrooged- #89 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #307 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #42 of 233 onThe Best '80s Comedy Movies, Ranked
16Zach Galligan, Phoebe Cates, Hoyt AxtonWith its unique blend of horror, comedy, and festive cheer, Gremlins presents a deceptively cheerful holiday setting that soon spirals into chaos. The small town's idyllic, snow-covered streets become the battleground for an unforgettable struggle between adorable Mogwai and mischievous Gremlins. This unconventional winter tale continues to thrill audiences with its imaginative story and distinctive characters.
More Gremlins- Dig Deeper...'Gremlins' Was So Intense That It Led To The Invention Of The PG-13 Rating
- #22 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #87 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- 17Danny Elfman, Chris Sarandon, Catherine O'Hara
Tim Burton's dark yet whimsical vision comes alive in The Nightmare Before Christmas, a stop-motion animated musical blending Halloween and Christmas elements. With mesmerizing visuals and a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, the film explores themes of identity, love, and acceptance against the backdrop of a snow-filled holiday world. The Nightmare Before Christmas is a winter must-watch for fans of unconventional holiday experiences.
18Ray Romano, John Leguizamo, Denis LearyA tale of friendship, loyalty, and survival against all odds, Ice Age presents a frigid prehistoric world teeming with adventure and unforgettable characters. The film expertly blends humor, heart, and stunning animation to create a winter experience for viewers of all ages. Ice Age has secured its place in the pantheon of animated films and remains a must-watch for fans of wintry escapades.
More Ice Age- Dig Deeper...The Best Characters in the Ice Age Series, Ranked
- #103 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #64 of 447 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
19Tom Hanks, Meg Ryan, Bill PullmanIn Sleepless in Seattle, Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan's poignant long-distance romance unfolds against the misty backdrop of a wintry Seattle and New York City. The film masterfully balances humor, heartache, and hope, creating a memorable wintertime experience steeped in nostalgia and warmth. Sleepless in Seattle remains a cherished favorite, symbolizing the power of love to overcome distance and adversity.
More Sleepless in Seattle- #28 of 135 onThe 100+ Best Movies For Date Night
- #402 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #112 of 279 on'Old' Movies Every Young Person Needs To Watch In Their Lifetime
20Dennis Quaid, Jake Gyllenhaal, Ian HolmThe Day After Tomorrow presents a chilling tale of a world faced with a catastrophic climate shift, plunging the planet into a new Ice Age. Set against a visually stunning backdrop of frozen devastation, the film combines elements of action, adventure, and family drama to create an enthralling winter experience. The Day After Tomorrow both entertains and serves as a cautionary reminder of the fragile balance between our world and the elements.
More The Day After Tomorrow- #163 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #59 of 165 onThe 150+ Best Futuristic Dystopian Movies
- #36 of 91 onThe 95+ Greatest Dystopian Action Movies
- 21Dan Aykroyd, Eddie Murphy, Ralph Bellamy
Trading Places offers a unique wintry experience through its blend of social satire, memorable characters, and a compelling story set against the backdrop of Philadelphia and New York City during the holiday season. As Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd struggle to navigate their reversed fortunes, the film masterfully balances hilarity and heart to create an enduring holiday-themed adventure.
More Trading Places- #29 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #173 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #5 of 233 onThe Best '80s Comedy Movies, Ranked
22Hugh Grant, Laura Linney, Colin FirthThrough its intricate web of interconnected stories, Love Actually explores the many facets of love, heartache, and human connection amidst a festive London setting. The film's balanced blend of humor, romance, and drama, combined with a stellar ensemble cast, creates an unforgettable seasonal experience. Love Actually's enduring charm and relatable themes make it a quintessential winter movie.
More Love Actually- Dig Deeper...14 Disturbing and Heinously Sexist Things You Never Noticed About 'Love, Actually'
- #15 of 135 onThe 100+ Best Movies For Date Night
- #461 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
23Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude LawSet in two charmingly picturesque locales, The Holiday follows the lives of two women as they experience love, self-discovery, and personal growth during an unexpected home exchange. With captivating performances from Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, and Jack Black, the film creates a delightful winter atmosphere filled with romance and warmth. The Holiday has become a beloved seasonal favorite, enchanting viewers with its magical combination of beautiful settings and timeless themes.
More The Holiday- #19 of 135 onThe 100+ Best Movies For Date Night
- #42 of 126 onThe Best Christmas Movies Of All Time
- #12 of 470 onThe 400+ Best Chick Flicks Ever
24Patrick Macnee, Alastair Sim, Jack WarnerAlastair Sim's portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge sets the gold standard in this definitive adaptation of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. With its atmospheric Victorian setting, memorable characters, and themes of redemption and compassion, Scrooge exemplifies the quintessential winter movie experience. This masterpiece continues to charm audiences with its message of hope during the coldest of seasons.
25Winona Ryder, Gabriel Byrne, Trini AlvaradoGreta Gerwig's adaptation of Little Women brings Louisa May Alcott's beloved tale of sisterhood, love, and personal growth to life with grace, charm, and stunning visuals. Set within the enchanting, snow-covered landscapes of 19th-century Massachusetts, the film masterfully evokes a nostalgic atmosphere steeped in warmth and comfort. Little Women's appeal makes it a treasured winter classic.
More Little Women
26Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall, Danny LloydStanley Kubrick's chilling adaptation of Stephen King's The Shining presents a harrowing exploration of isolation, madness, and supernatural terror set within the remote, snowbound Overlook Hotel. The film's mesmerizing visuals, haunting soundtrack, and unforgettable performances from Jack Nicholson and Shelley Duvall create a captivating winter nightmare. The Shining stands as a seminal work of psychological horror, leaving an indelible mark on the winter movie landscape.
27Jim Carrey, Robin Wright, Gary OldmanA timeless classic, A Christmas Carol expertly captures the spirit of Charles Dickens' original tale through its stunning visuals, memorable characters, and themes of redemption and compassion. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of a snowy Victorian London, this film serves as a poignant reminder of the true meaning of the holiday season.
More A Christmas Carol- #270 of 447 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
- #32 of 126 onThe Best Christmas Movies Of All Time
- #81 of 117 onThe Best Disney Animated Movies Of All Time
- 28Jeremy Renner, Elizabeth Olsen, Gil Birmingham
In Wind River, the treacherous and unforgiving landscape of the Wyoming wilderness becomes the backdrop for a gripping thriller centered around the investigation of a brutal crime. As it expertly balances elements of suspense, action, and human drama, the film presents a winter experience that explores themes of survival, grief, and resilience.
More Wind River- #112 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #17 of 48 onThe 45+ Best Modern Day Westerns
- #17 of 66 onThe 60+ Best Native American Movies
- 29Sam Richardson, Milana Vayntrub, George Basil
A delightful blend of humor, horror, and mystery, Werewolves Within follows a group of quirky characters as they strive to uncover the identity of a deadly creature hidden among them. Set against the backdrop of a snowbound small town, the film mixes elements of suspense, camaraderie, and paranoia to create a unique winter experience. Werewolves Within enthralls viewers as an unconventional yet thoroughly entertaining seasonal offering.
More Werewolves Within- #33 of 42 onThe Best Snowy Thriller Movies, Ranked
- #11 of 17 onUnderrated Movie Adaptations That Aren't Based On Books
- #5 of 12 onThe Most Underrated Werewolf Movies
30Cary Grant, Loretta Young, David NivenA heartwarming tale of faith, compassion, and unexpected miracles, The Bishop's Wife follows the enchanting story of an angel who comes to Earth during the holiday season. Set against a charming, snow-covered backdrop, the film beautifully weaves together themes of love, spirituality, and human resilience. An enduring classic, The Bishop's Wife remains a beloved holiday favorite for generations of viewers.
More The Bishop's Wife- #64 of 126 onThe Best Christmas Movies Of All Time
- #9 of 85 onThe Best Christmas Rom-Coms
- #9 of 60 onThe Best Comedies Of The 1940s
