Top Holiday Films for Grown-Ups

Although we all cherish Children’s Christmas Movies, occasionally you crave flicks meant for Adults that are a bit more sophisticated. Here, we highlight some of the finest holiday films that blend drama, romance, and comedy perfect for the mature audience.

Love Actually

Regarded as the universally adored Christmas film, its interlaced narratives culminating on Christmas Day evoke warmth, tears, festiveness, humor, and romance—making it an annual must-watch.
Watch Love Actually: Online or DVD via Amazon | Check Netflix | on iTunes

The Family Stone

I have a soft spot for this movie, though I can’t pinpoint why. Observing the tribulations of this affluent New England clan in the countdown to Christmas invariably inspires holiday spirit. It’s not a Christmas tale for kids—the adult-themed drama, debates, and calamities are unmistakably grown-up. Yet, it unfailingly gives a sense of home every single year. I earnestly wish Diane Keaton could be my mom.
Watch The Family Stone: Online or DVD via Amazon | Check Netflix | on iTunes

Almost Christmas

Danny Glover portrays the head of this ‘dysfunctional’ (who isn’t nowadays) family, endeavoring to celebrate their first Christmas since the passing of his wife. A straightforward ‘dramatic comedy’ yet a splendid pick for an adult evening filled with festive spirit and a heartwarming narrative.
Watch Almost Christmas: Online or DVD via Amazon | on iTunes

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

Though I recall watching ‘Christmas Vacation’ during my childhood, now that I’m an adult, it clearly resides in the category of ‘Yuletide films for grown-ups’. I mean, the beginning features Clark shopping for lingerie. There’s some pretty risqué humor – but the nostalgia and slapstick comedy greatly surpass any downsides of this iconic Christmas comedy. It’s a perennial tradition in my home.
Watch Christmas Vacation: Online or DVD via Amazon | Check Netflix | on iTunes

Honorable Mentions for Adult Christmas Movies

Not every Christmas movie for Adults can achieve classic status, but these are definitely among my favorites, even if they aren’t universally beloved.

Four Christmases It’s somewhat quirky and formulaic, but Vince Vaughn and Reese Witherspoon shine in this amusing comedy. Watch: Online or DVD via Amazon | on iTunes	Christmas with the Kranks I’m baffled by why this film receives so much criticism. I watch it annually and absolutely adore it – so give it a shot. Watch: Online or DVD via Amazon | Check Netflix | on iTunes
This Christmas A fairly typical ‘Holiday with the Family’ film, but it’s worth it for the outstanding soundtrack and unconventional plot. Watch: Online or DVD via Amazon | on iTunes	Love The Coopers I hoped to love this movie – since it’s created by the same team as ‘Family Stone’, but it didn’t quite resonate as strongly. Nevertheless, it’s still worth watching. Watch: Online or DVD via Amazon | on iTunes

There are many more movies to enjoy beyond these – such as classic holiday films and the best Christmas flicks for children, to name a few.

Did we overlook one of your favorite Adult Christmas Movies? Let us know on the Forum or in the Comments below!