With the holiday season approaching, there’s no better way to get into the festive spirit than by watching Christmas movies early. Every year has a wide array of movies featuring Christmas romance, feel-good vibes, timeless holiday tunes, and themes centered around family, generosity, and joy. 2022 was no exception. Before exploring the best Christmas movies on Netflix in 2023 or other streaming platforms, it’s worthwhile to revisit some of the best from last year.
In 2022, viewers witnessed the release of thrilling Christmas movies like Violent Night, with its action-packed narrative that follows Santa’s heroic efforts to stop a group of criminals from robbing a wealthy family. Not every film on this list carries such intensity, of course; some are simply heartwarming, steeped in nostalgia, and radiate positivity — the kind of sentiment many anticipate experiencing this Christmas. Whatever the genre of story, these movies all stand as the best Christmas movies of 2022 and are worth rewatching this season.
10 A Christmas Story Christmas (2022)
A Christmas Story Christmas
- Release Date
- November 17, 2022
- Director
- Clay Kaytis
- Cast
- Peter Billingsley, Zack Ward, Erinn Hayes, Julie Hagerty, Scott Schwartz
- Rating
- PG
- Main Genre
- Comedy
- Genres
- Comedy, Family
Hailed as an iconic sequel to the 1983 movie, A Christmas Story, A Christmas Story Christmas is set 33 years later and offers a deep nostalgic journey for fans of the original. The story revolves around a grown Ralphie Parker, who returns home to Cleveland with his wife and kids to recreate a memorable Christmas reminiscent of that of his childhood.
Why It’s Worth Revisiting
If there’s any movie from 2022 that captures the warmth and beauty of the holidays, it is this one. A Christmas Story Christmas is undeniably a feel-good movie that pulls at the heartstrings, potentially bringing the tender-hearted to tears as the plot unfolds. While presenting its unique narrative, it effectively captures the spirit of Jean Shepherd’s storytelling and incorporates the nuances of fan-favorite character Ralphie as an adult. The film taps heavily into viewer’s nostalgia by retaining the original score and some members of the original cast, too. Stream on Max
9 A Holiday Spectacular (2022)
Set in 1958, the delightful Christmas movie, A Holiday Spectacular, tells the story of a wealthy heiress who puts her high society marriage on hold to fulfill her dream of joining the Rockettes. Regarded as one of Hallmark’s finest, it effectively captures the ambiance of the 1950s and that festive feeling remiscient of classical Hollywood.
Why It’s Worth Revisiting
A Holiday Spectacular is an entertaining Christmas movie that boasts an impressive cast, excellent production design, a well-written script, and a skilfully executed plot. With its theme of following one’s dreams, the power of friendship, and the importance of family, it becomes more than just a movie about a rich girl trying to escape her pampered life. It has a touch of reality that brims with heartfelt moments. Overall, it’s a beautiful story that can be enjoyed every Christmas, and having Ann Margaret as part of the cast adds an extra delight for audiences who are fans of her work. Stream on DIRECTV
8 The Noel Diary (2022)
Adapted from Richard Paul Evan’s novel and directed by Charles Shyer, The Noel Diary touches on some heavy subjects as it follows the story of a famous author who, upon returning for Christmas after the death of his mother, stumbles upon a diary with secrets from the past. Along the way, he encounters a young woman on her own mysterious journey.
Why It’s Worth Revisiting
The Noel Dairy stands as the ideal movie to watch during this holiday season as it helps to spread the cheers and warmth of the festive season, even if some perceive it as a bit cheesy. Despite its similarities to other hit Christmas movies, it brings a compelling touch to the narrative that is hard to resist. The undeniable chemistry between Justin Hartley and Barrett Doss adds a sizzling and entertaining quality to the film. Stream on Netflix
7 Violent Night (2022)
Violent Night
- Release Date
- December 2, 2022
- Director
- Tommy Wirkola
- Cast
- David Harbour, John Leguizamo, Beverly D'Angelo, Alex Hassell, Alexis Louder
- Rating
- R
- Main Genre
- Action
- Genres
- Action, Comedy, Crime
A Christmas action comedy film directed by Tommy Wirkola and written by Pat Cassey, Violent Night features David Harbour as an aggressive Santa Claus, who saves a family held hostage by a group of mercenaries. It is pure entertainment — a cross between John Wick 's hardcore action sequences and a traditional Christmas story.
Why It’s Worth Revisiting
For viewers seeking Christmas movies similar to Die Hard, with a focus on practical stunts, action, and violence against the backdrop of the festive period, Violent Night is a brutal delight. Unapologetic in its depictions of deaths and gore, it depicts characters getting burned, dismembered, and even impaled in a very creative manner. Harbour plays Santa Claus to perfection, disillusioned but maintaining the charisma of the classic character, all while being a bad-ass. John Leguizamo also adds a fun touch as the villain, making the movie rather entertaining. Stream on Prime Video
6 Three Wise Men and a Baby (2022)
Ranking as Hallmark’s most-watched movie of 2022, Three Wise Men and a Baby deviates from the typical Hallmark holiday romance movie. It tells the story of three brothers compelled to collaborate in taking care of a mysterious baby, which, in turn, forces them confront their insecurities and find ways of healing.
Why It’s Worth Revisiting
This Christmas movie injects a modern twist to the classic story of three men's lives changing upon discovering a baby, as seen in movies like Three Godfathers and Three Men and a Baby. It is an incredibly fun story with a superb cast that will certainly add sparkles to anyone’s Christmas. The dynamic between Paul Campbell, Andrew Walker, and Tyler Hyne is endearing, and their dance is absolutely beautiful. Campbell and Kimberly Sustad have succeeded in crafting a funny, poignant, nostalgic and well-written story that resonates with the holiday spirit. Stream on FuboTV
5 Spirited (2022)
Standing as a musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ timeless Christmas story, Spirited follows a disgruntled man and his journey through the past, future, and present to grasp the consequences of not changing his ways.
Why It’s Worth Revisiting
No Christmas is truly complete without holiday tunes, and this musical delivers some of the best. A perfect holiday watch, it seamlessly blends music and comedy. The film features well-choreographed musical numbers and an awesome chemistry between Ryan Reynolds and Will Ferrell that leaves many enchanted.
Offering a fresh comedic perspective on love during the holidays, Spirited is both witty and full of heart , making it a perfect Christmas gift. The inclusion of adult humor adds relatability and brilliance to the overall experience. It is a cinematic gem that promises to become a cherished part of every Christmas season. Stream on Apple TV+
4 The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special
The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special is about making Christmas a memorable one for Peter Quill, whose Christmas was ruined as kid. Mantis and Drax go to great lengths just to bring Star-Lord a special gift from earth. In just 40 minutes, this special movie adds newfound depth to the Marvel universe, with the Guardians delivering their trademark fun and laughter.
Why It’s Worth Revisiting
A simple yet hilarious and heartwarming film, this Marvel Special Presentation captures the true charm of the Guardians of the Galaxy, reaffirming James Gunn’s prowess as one of the best MCU filmmakers. Beyond the laughs, it highlights the love between the Guardians, revealing the depth of their bond and willingness to go great lengths to ensure each other’s happiness. The delightful inclusion of Kevin Bacon to the cast adds a special touch. Stream on Disney+
3 Scrooge: A Christmas Carol (2022)
Scrooge: A Christmas Carol
- Director
- Stephen Donnelly
- Cast
- Jessie Buckley, Johnny Flynn, Olivia Colman, Luke Evans, Jonathan Pryce
- Main Genre
- Animation
- Genres
- Animation, Adventure, Comedy
Scrooge: A Christmas Carol is yet another take on the classic Charles Dickens' story, and it follows the story of Scrooge, who has no love for the holiday season and lacks compassion for others. In keeping with Dickens’ famous holiday tale, Scrooge is visited by three ghosts representing the past, present, and future, urging him to change his ways and avoid a grim fate.
Why It’s Worth Revisiting
While it may not surpass the original, this adaptation serves as a good, modernized musical rendition for those seeking fresh perspectives on Charles Dickens' story. Luke Evans delivers a stellar performance voicing Scrooge, and the entire cast excels in bringing the narrative to life. While some may feel this adaptation is unnecessary, it proves to be a delightful one with creative special effects and an unexpected twist. The music is sure to tug at the heartstrings of many. Stream on Netflix
2 Something from Tiffany’s (2022)
Set in New York City, this Christmas rom-com unfolds as a chain of events is set in motion by an accidental exchange of gifts. This leads to a woman’s life being altered when she receives an engagement ring meant for someone else.
Why It’s Worth Revisiting
While Something from Tiffany’s may not be a groundbreaking rom-com, it does earn a spot on the list as a charming holiday movie. The exceptional cinematography beautifully captures the Christmas atmosphere in New York, complementing the film’s amazing lead characters and heart-touching dialogue. Exploring the intricacies of relationships, the movie maintains a level of believability, even if it’s cheesy or predictable to some extent. Something From Tiffany’s is overall a cute movie, with Zoey Deutch and others delivering magnetic performances. It also works as a solid adaptation of Melissa Hills’ novel. Stream on Prime Video
1 Falling for Christmas (2022)
In Falling for Christmas, Lindsay Lohan marks her comeback as a spoiled heiress who has amnesia after experiencing a skiing accident. She finds herself under the care of a handsome widower and his daughter, leading to a blossoming romance and, of course, some Christmas magic.
Why It’s Worth Revisiting
With its impressive scenery, warm set designs, lovable cast, and straightforward storyline, Fallin for Christmas exudes a feel-good vibe, which is the absolute comfort many seek during this festive period. It caters to viewers who enjoy rom-coms and are comfortable with the familiar tropes found within them. More importantly, Lohan still shows that she possesses great acting skills, exuding the same fun energy we saw in her older hits like Mean Girls and Freaky Friday. Stream on Netflix
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