8 Non-Mainstream Christmas Movies to Be Festive But Edgy (And Where to Watch Them)
Make yourself comfortable.
Snuggling up on the couch with a mug of hot cocoa and a marathon of the best Christmas movies is the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.
And we think it's never too early to start because getting ready for the celebration is always fun — choosing gifts, decorating the tree, creating a holiday menu, and watching good old-fashioned Christmas movies where everything always ends well. Let's do exactly that, but in a cool, non-Home-Alone kind of way.
1. Miracle on 34th Street
This one is exactly what a Christmas movie should be: sweet, kind, a little naive, and full of wonder. Miracle on 34th Street is a must-see if you no longer believe in Santa Claus or fairy tales because it will make you believe again. Got a Disney Plus subscription? Then it's free for you to watch!
2. Serendipity
A light romantic comedy about how feelings overcome distance and circumstance, and how real miracles occur when you don't expect them. Of course, this is happening just before Christmas. You can watch it on Amazon Prime if you have a subscription.
3. The Christmas Chronicles
A classic good comedy, with Kurt Russell in the role that suits him perfectly. Bickering siblings record a video of Santa Claus, but accidentally wreck his sleigh. Now they must help him save the holiday and deliver presents to everyone. If you needed a non-mainstream Netflix and chill scenario, then you can start watching right now!
4. Lost Christmas
A sad story about the magic we ourselves create. Every thing we do, like a spell, leads to trouble or joy, and the main question is how we deal with the consequences. It's like a fairytale, but an adult one: it's our turn to be a magic fairy. You can watch this movie for free on PLEX, and on FuboTV, Vudu or iTunes with a subscription.
5. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
A silly but very funny comedy by John Hughes and Chevy Chase. The plot follows a family man, Clark Griswold, who tries his best to have the perfect Christmas, but is constantly thwarted. You can rent the movie on Prime Video or Apple TV.
6. The Shop Around the Corner
A very old and heartwarming movie that proves that happiness can be right under our noses if only we try to notice it. On Christmas Eve, gift shop manager Alfred Kralik, who is always arguing with the saleswoman, goes on a date with his pen pal.
This one is available on Prime Video and Apple TV.
7. It’s a Wonderful Life
No classy Christmas movie list is complete without this one. It is the timeless story of a man who is going to commit suicide because of life's hardships, but hesitates when he sees what the world would be like without him. A life-affirming movie that is perfect for Christmas — watch it on PLEX for free, or find it on Prime Video or Apple TV.
8. Christmas in Connecticut
Journalist Elizabeth Lane is one of the most popular recipe writers in the country. In her articles, she describes herself as a hardworking farmer, a caring mother, and an amazing cook. But it is all a lie — she is a lonely resident of the metropolis who cannot cook at all, and she is about to be exposed. The movie is available on Prime Video and Apple TV.