If you haven’t watched a festive film yet, now is the time to indulge, and there are some great options on Netflix that you may have never heard of. As much as we all like to dive into Christmas classics such as Love Actually, The Holiday, The Family Stone and all the other films that we’ve grown to know and love over the years, there are some options on Netflix that have rightly earned their spot on the must-watch list this year.

While Netflix itself has produced some comforting and gripping films, it also homes some brilliant options that are sure to get you feeling festive. As there’s still a week or so to go until the big day, now is the time to get comfy and tune in to really make the most of the holiday magic.

After spending quite some time enjoying all the Christmas films on the streaming platform, I’ve managed to list the top five that I think everyone should watch. As someone who has seen a lot of Christmas films, some even hundreds of times, I’d say I know my stuff when it comes to the perfect recipe for a wholesome viewing experience at this time of year.

That Christmas

Coming in fifth place is an unusual choice for me, as there’s not many animated films I can actually sit through and enjoy at my age; however, That Christmas has managed to sprinkle a little magic in my life from the first time I watched it. The Netflix fantasy comedy film is written by Richard Curtis and Peter Souter, and it centres on entwined storylines based on short stories from That Christmas and Other Stories by Curtis and illustrator Rebecca Cobb.

The voice cast features Brian Cox, Fiona Shaw, Jodie Whittaker and Bill Nighy as they tell the story of life at a seaside town on the run up to Christmas. It includes the tale of a struggling Santa who’s battling a blizzard, and a host of characters who are forced to tackle issues such as school plays, absent parents and general Christmas mishaps.

In classic Richard Curtis fashion, the film embodies a lot of heart, meaning and some really touching moments. I think it’s a top pick for the whole family, as it really does have something for everyone. Even the grown ups will find it hard not to enjoy this one!

Jingle Bell Heist

A new addition to the streaming platform this year, Jingle Bell Heist has been welcomed warmly by viewers. For those who love a romantic comedy, this one comes with a fun twist, starring the likes of Olivia Holt, Connor Swindells, Lucy Punch and Peter Serafinowicz.

Ahead of Christmas, two strangers, Sophia and Nick, join forces to try and rob one of London’s most famous department stores. They are on a mission to seek revenge on the owner and overcome financial strain.

The film is fun, captivating and has a lot more twists that you’d first imagine. If you’re looking for a rom-com that’s a little different, you’ll definitely enjoy it.

Jingle Jangle

Released back in 2020, Jingle Jangle had me hooked from the very first viewing. The festive fantasy musical stars the likes of Forest Whitaker, Keegan-Michael Key, Hugh Bonneville and Anika Noni Rose, and is a truly special movie for all sorts of reasons.

Kids will love this magic-filled film that’s full of catchy songs and a totally wholesome narrative. It tells the tale of once-celebrated toymaker, Jeronicus Jangle, who sadly loses all faith after his apprentice steals his greatest invention.

However, decades later, his creative granddaughter, Journey, turns up and helps to put him back on the right track. Together, they work to heal family wounds and save Christmas thanks to the power of imagination.

Think along the lines of The Greatest Showman, but with a Christmas twist and a sprinkling of festive magic. It truly is a must-watch for all ages.

The Christmas Chronicles

I am a huge fan of both The Christmas Chronicles one and two, as both films contain all the ingredients of a perfect family Christmas movie. In different ways, the films involve the tale of siblings Kate and Teddy and how they try to deal with the loss of their father at Christmas, while going on huge adventures.

Their journey begins when Santa’s sleigh crashes on Christmas Eve, and they work to help him get back on track and deliver presents across the world in time for Christmas. This is only the start of their special relationship with the big man in red.

From the fun-filled plot to the lovable elves, there’s so much to adore about this film. Not to mention, can you really beat Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn in the roles of Mr and Mrs Claus?

The Holdovers

I only discovered The Holdovers this year, and I think it’s pretty special. Even though Netflix didn’t make the film, it has arrived on the platform in time for Christmas.

Set in 1970, it centres on the story of a strict classics teacher at a New England boarding school who has no choice but to chaperone a group of students who have nowhere to go during the school’s Christmas break. It shows how unlikely bonds can form between a teacher and student when forced to spend time together at such a poignant time of the year.

There is so much in this film to unpick, from complicated parent relationships to how influential teachers can be on a person’s life. Not to mention, the soundtrack is pretty special too.

If you’re looking for a heartwarming festive film that’s a little different to the norm, give it a whirl. It’s the best discovery I’ve made in a long time, and is now something I’ll tune into every year. Add it to your list.