The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes a sleighful of enchanting Christmas movies that promise to warm your heart and bring festive cheer. From heartfelt tales of love and rediscovery to comical mishaps and even a Christmas-themed horror twist, there's something for everyone to enjoy this season. Including a long list of new Christmas movies released in 2023.
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There are plenty of nostalgic classic Christmas movies and chuckle-worthy Christmas comedies we've all seen dozens of times. And these will undoubtedly play in your living room this holiday season. However, it's worth your while to keep an eye on the next crop of films vying for the coveted title of Christmas classic -- and there are some promising contenders this year.
We've rounded up the most highly-anticipated holiday films that 2023 has to offer. And every mode of viewing has been accounted for, from streamers to theaters to good old-fashioned cable TV. So however you prefer to get your holiday cheer on, we've got you covered with myriad Yuletide options.
Whether you're seeking romance, comedy, or enchantment, there's a holiday film to suit every taste, making the season even more special and unforgettable. So, grab your hot cocoa, cozy up on the couch, and let the magic of these new Christmas movies warm your heart and fill you with the holiday spirit.
'Under the Christmas Sky'
Hallmark Channel
Release Date: Oct. 22
Where to watch: Peacock, live on Hallmark
Kat (Jessica Parker Kennedy), a respected astrophysicist, is on the verge of her inaugural space journey when an unexpected mishap forces her to change her plans. She decides to devote her time to volunteering at the nearby planetarium, where she collaborates with the diligent David (Ryan Paevey), who's striving to unveil a new exhibit before the Christmas deadline. Hallmark's 2023 Countdown to Christmas is full of new releases this year, but the space element adds an unexpected twist to this romantic holiday film.
'Mystic Christmas'
Hallmark Channel
Release Date: Oct. 28
Where to watch: Peacock, live on Hallmark
Mystic, Conn. holds a special place in our hearts, thanks to the classic Julia Roberts movie "Mystic Pizza." Now, another film set in this charming New England town, featuring a love story, companionship at the aquarium, and a pizza shop. While it's not the iconic pizza shop itself, we're eagerly on board for this one and always love seeing Jessy Schram lead a Hallmark Christmas movie. As with all new releases on Hallmark, if you missed the premiere, you can catch it on rotation leading up to Dec. 25.
'What Happens Later'
Bleecker Street
Release Date: Nov. 3
Where to watch: In theaters, streaming TBD
Stranded overnight at a regional airport due to heavy snowfall, former lovers Willa and Bill come to a surprising realization: they're still drawn to each other, yet equally exasperated. As they delve into the complexities of their shared history and assess how their lives have diverged from the dreams they once held, they can't help but question whether their reunion is merely a chance occurrence or something touched by a touch of enchantment. This marks Meg Ryan's big return to the rom-com genre where she not only stars opposite David Duchovney, but serves as director.
'It's A Wonderful Knife'
RLJE Films
Release Date: Nov. 10
Where to watch: Shudder
This Christmas-themed horror film blends "It's a Wonderful Life" and "Scream," resulting in a memorable holiday film to add to your repertoire. It centers around a woman named Jane Widdop, who initially saves her town from a killer. However, a year later, she experiences a startling shift into an alternate reality, where she discovers the grim consequences of a world without her presence. The talented cast also features Joel McHale and Justin Long.
'Best. Christmas. Ever!'
Paramount
Release Date: Nov. 15
Where to watch: Netflix
Brandy Norwood and Heather Graham star in this Netflix holiday offering. Traditionally, every Christmas, Jackie (Brandy) sends a boastful newsletter to her friend Charlotte (Graham). However, a twist of fate brings Charlotte to Jackie's doorstep, prompting her to embark on a mission to reveal that her friend's life is far from perfect. The film also stars Jason Biggs and Madison Skye Validum.
'Dashing Through the Snow'
Disney+
Release Date: Nov. 17
Where to watch: Disney +
A divorced social worker employed by the Atlanta police department holds a deep-seated resentment toward Christmas, stemming from a painful childhood experience. However, while responding to a call on Christmas Eve with his daughter, he unintentionally incurs the anger of a local politician. During this unexpected encounter, he crosses paths with a man dressed as Santa Claus (and may in fact be the Santa Claus) who guides him on a journey to rediscover the joy and enchantment of Christmas.
'A Merry Scottish Christmas'
Hallmark Channel
Release Date: Nov. 18
Where to watch: Peacock, live on Hallmark
Estranged siblings Lindsay (Lacey Chabert) and Brad (Scott Wolf) decide to travel to Scotland during the Christmas season to reunite with their mother, Jo. This isn't the first time the two actors have teamed up onscreen to play siblings. They also played brother and sister on the television series "Party of Five" (1994-2000), making this a fun and nostalgic reunion for longtime fans.
'The Naughty Nine'
Jonathan Wenk/Disney
Release Date: Nov. 22
Where to watch: Disney+
Upon discovering that he's landed on Santa's list of naughty children, Andy takes matters into his own hands by assembling a crew of fellow naughty-list youngsters. Their mission? To secure the presents they believe they rightfully deserve. Disney calls this original movie "Ocean's 11" at the North Pole. This is a great family Christmas movie to add to your watch list this year.
'Family Switch'
Netflix
Release Date: Nov. 30
Where to watch: Netflix
Jennifer Garner, Ed Helms, and Rita Moreno headline a Netflix comedy that explores the challenges of a couple striving to maintain family bonds as their children mature and drift apart. However, an unexpected encounter with an astrologer sets in motion a remarkable transformation—a complete body switch—on a day that holds great significance for each of them.
'Silent Night'
Lionsgate
Release Date: Dec. 1
Where to watch: In theaters, streaming TBD
This won't be one for the whole family, but mature audiences with a taste for high-octane violence should keep this Jon Woo-directed thriller on their radar. On a fateful Christmas Eve, a man tragically witnesses the loss of his young son in the crossfire of warring gangs. After recuperating from an injury that has left him voiceless, he initiates a relentless and brutal mission to seek retribution against those accountable. The title references both the classic Christmas carol and the film's absence of dialogue. For the ones who swear that "Die Hard" is a Christmas movie, this is for you.
'Candy Cane Lane'
Amazon Prime Video
Release Date: Dec. 1
Where to watch: Prime Video
In "Candy Cane Lane," Eddie Murphy takes the lead as a man who strikes an unusual bargain with an elf, portrayed by Jillian Bell, to boost his chances of winning the neighborhood's house decorating competition. However, this arrangement also brings the "12 Days of Christmas" to life, causing a series of comical mishaps that affect the entire town. (Hint: Expect a lot of birds, if the holiday classic's lyrics are any indication...) The film also features a talented cast, including Tracee Ellis Ross, Ken Marino, and Nick Offerman. Based on the cast alone, this is the perfect option for those who love watching Christmas comedies every year.
'Red One'
Amazon MGM Studios
Release Date: TBD
Where to watch: Prime Video
"Red One" is an upcoming action-adventure Christmas film helmed by director Jake Kasdan, and featuring a screenplay penned by Chris Morgan, based on an original story by Hiram Garcia. While plot details for the film remain sparse - as does the release date - it's got some seriously heavy-hitters on board and is expected to premiere in 2023. The film stars Kiernan Shipka, Chris Evans, Dwayne Johnson, Lucy Liu, and JK Simmons.
'Meet Me Next Christmas'
Netflix
Release Date: TBD
Where to watch: Netflix
In "Meet Me Next Christmas," directed by Rusty Cundieff with a screenplay by Molly Haldeman and Camilla Rubis, we follow Layla on a festive adventure. Her quest for a fairy-tale romance with her ideal man sets her on a whirlwind journey to secure tickets for the sold-out Pentatonix Christmas Eve Concert in New York City, racing against the clock. Christina Milian has starred in numerous romantic Christmas movies over the years, so this is an easy standout in this year's new releases.
