Best New Christmas Movies Released in Recent Years

 


The holidays keep getting fresher with new Christmas movies that blend modern romance, diverse stories, and innovative twists on seasonal traditions. These recent releases (from the last decade or so) bring streaming magic, star power, and heartfelt cheer to your watchlist, perfect for updating your annual lineup. From animated adventures to queer romances and international gems, these best new Christmas movies capture contemporary joy while honoring the spirit of the season. Cozy up with these fresh favorites—they're destined to become future classics!

1. Klaus (2019)

This gorgeous hand-drawn animated origin story of Santa follows a selfish postman (Jason Schwartzman) befriending a reclusive toymaker (J.K. Simmons) in a frozen town. Stunning 2D animation, witty script, and themes of kindness sparking tradition earned it an Oscar nod—beautiful, funny, and profoundly moving for all ages.

2. Happiest Season (2020)

Kristen Stewart and Mackenzie Davis star in this groundbreaking rom-com about a woman planning to come out to her conservative family over Christmas—until her girlfriend (Stewart) hides their relationship. Clea DuVall directs with humor and heart; Daniel Levy steals scenes. A modern LGBTQ+ holiday milestone.

3. Single All the Way (2021)

Michael Urie plays a perpetually single guy who recruits his best friend (Philemon Chambers) to pose as his boyfriend for Christmas, sparking real feelings. Jennifer Coolidge and Kathy Najimy add chaotic family fun—sweet, funny queer romance that's inclusive and joyful.

4. The Noel Diary (2022)

Justin Hartley stars as a bestselling author returning home for Christmas, uncovering his mother's diary and connecting with a mysterious woman (Barrett Doss). Heartfelt adaptation of Richard Paul Evans' novel with themes of forgiveness and second chances—cozy Netflix comfort.

5. Falling for Christmas (2022)

Lindsay Lohan's comeback vehicle: a spoiled heiress loses her memory after a skiing accident and falls for a handsome lodge owner (Chord Overstreet). Cheesy, charming throwback to early 2000s rom-coms—pure escapist fun with Lohan's sparkle.

6. Spirited (2022)

Ryan Reynolds and Will Ferrell flip A Christmas Carol with Ferrell as the Ghost of Christmas Present "haunting" a cynical PR guy. Big musical numbers, meta humor, and Octavia Spencer's warmth—bold, energetic Apple TV+ spectacle.

7. Your Christmas or Mine? (2022)

British rom-com where young couple Hayley (Asa Butterfield) and James (Cora Kirk) accidentally swap families for Christmas due to a train mix-up. Class clashes, quirky relatives, and sweet romance—charming sequel followed in 2023.

8. The Holiday Shift (2023)

Paramount+ series turned movie vibe: interconnected stories at a mall during Christmas, with romance, friendship, and seasonal jobs. Diverse cast and modern workplace humor—fresh take on ensemble holiday tales.

9. Candy Cane Lane (2023)

Eddie Murphy overdoes Christmas decorations to win a contest, unleashing magical chaos from a shady elf (Tracee Ellis Ross). Wild fantasy-comedy with Jillian Bell and Nick Offerman—big, silly Prime Video fun.

10. Red One (2024)

Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans team up to save Santa (J.K. Simmons) in this action-comedy blockbuster. Lucy Liu, Kiernan Shipka, and holiday mythology twists—big-budget spectacle blending Jumanji energy with Christmas lore.

Honorable Mentions for Recent Cheer

  • Dashing Through the Snow (2023) → Lil Rel Howery meets magical Santa (Chris "Ludacris" Bridges).

  • Best. Christmas. Ever! (2023) → Heather Graham and Brandy's competitive friendship.

  • Our Little Secret (2024) → Lindsay Lohan exes forced together for holidays.

These new Christmas movies bring contemporary flair, diversity, and streaming convenience to the season. Add them to your queue for fresh festive feels—they're the modern classics in the making!

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