As the holiday season quickly approaches, 2025 has brought a fresh wave of Christmas films, each vying for a place in our festive viewing schedules. This year’s offerings include a mix of charming comedies, sentimental dramas, and even a few guilty pleasures that can elicit a few chuckles for being so bad they’re good.
Starting off the viewing marathon is “A Very Jonas Christmas Movie,” a whimsical adventure featuring the Jonas Brothers. Stranded in the UK after their world tour, the brothers face off against an evil Santa determined to prevent their return home until they recapture their “brotherly magic.” With a blend of humor and brotherly banter, this film, although not a cinematic classic, is highly enjoyable for fans of the band.
Following that is “Tinsel Town,” starring Kiefer Sutherland as an out-of-luck action hero forced into a pantomime. With quirky characters played by Rebel Wilson and Derek Jacobi, the movie excels in capturing the fun of festive theater, proving to be the perfect light-hearted distraction.
“Christmas Karma” introduces a fresh take on the classic “A Christmas Carol,” featuring Kunal Nayyar as Mr. Sood – an unfortunate miser seeking redemption through his encounters with three ghosts. While the film’s premise is engaging, Nayyar’s performance falls flat, leaving viewers yearning for a stronger lead.
Next, the BBC’s “Stuffed” features Guz Khan in a humorous tale of a man facing an unexpected dilemma after receiving a hefty Christmas bonus that turns out to be a mistake. The comedy provides a fun but forgettable laugh.
On a more romantic note, “Champagne Problems” embraces the festive backdrop in a tale of ambition and unexpected romance set in a French chateau. While the holiday theme may feel secondary, the supporting cast and charming dialogue add a touch of class.
“Finding Father Christmas” brings a sweet yet low-key narrative about a boy’s unwavering belief in Santa, enhanced by the participation of influential figures like Stephen Fry.
The family-centric “Oh. What. Fun.” showcases a holiday gathering rife with conflict, led by Michelle Pfeiffer. The film looks to pay homage to classic festive films while attempting to carve out its own identity amidst the familiar tropes.
In a return to formulaic romance, “A Scottish Christmas Secret” features an American woman who ventures to the Scottish Highlands, where love and holiday magic await. Despite its predictability, it provides the kind of cheesy enjoyment that many viewers crave during the holiday season.
Finally, “Goodbye June” takes a more poignant approach to holiday storytelling, delving into the intimate struggles of family. With a powerful cast including Kate Winslet and Helen Mirren, the film might not fit into traditional Christmas comfort narratives, but its story brings depth and emotion, making it a standout in this year’s lineup.
As viewers gear up for holiday binge-watching, this diverse selection of Christmas films ensures there’s something for everyone, whether it’s laughter, romance, or even a touch of thoughtful reflection. Embracing these new releases could just add warm moments to many families’ festive celebrations.