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Some people get in the mood for the holidays by decorating a tree, baking cookies, or venturing out to look at houses draped in thousands of string lights. Others just pop on a Christmas movie to get into the spirit. 

Whether you're planning a mega holiday movie marathon, yearning for an old classic, or trying to mix up your family movie night with something different this year, there's plenty to choose from. We've curated the very best Christmas movies you can stream or rent, from sentimental classics with a twist and cozy romantic comedies to emotional indie dramas and high-speed action thrillers.

25. The Long Kiss Goodnight (1996) Credit: New Line / Kobal / Shutterstock

Yes, we can all agree that Die Hard is the GOAT Christmas action movie, but don't you dare sleep on The Long Kiss Goodnight. 

In Renny Harlin's action thriller, Geena Davis' Samantha is a wholesome small-town school teacher and mother who, eight years ago, woke up pregnant on a beach with no memory of who she was. In the present day, Samantha gets into a car accident that changes everything — she begins remembering things and discovers she has elite knife skills. Was she a chef, perhaps? That seems unlikely when a strange man who recognized her at a Christmas parade shows up at her house to attack her. She kills him with ease as if it's her day job. Turns out, it sure as heck was. 

Davis' PTA mom soon transforms back into her old badass self, a platinum blonde CIA assassin. This time, she has Samuel L. Jackson's private eye as her sidekick. With explosions and car chases galore, The Long Kiss Goodnight is everything you'd want from a delightfully bonkers holiday action movie. — Oliver Whitney, Freelance Contributor

How to watch: The Long Kiss Goodnight is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

24. Home Alone (1990) Credit: 20th Century Fox / Kobal / Shutterstock

Watching Macaulay Culkin's Kevin McCallister line his house with booby traps in Home Alone never gets old. It's also a great lesson for young kids left at home by their chaotic families in how to prepare for pesky burglars. Anything can be a weapon! Those old paint cans, your brother's pet tarantula, even a blow torch to burn the top off of a strange man's head can keep you safe. Home Alone has all the perfect ingredients to make a great, rewatchable Christmas movie with its wacky and playful plot, its charismatic cast, a sentimental message about the importance of family during the holidays, and some of the most quotable lines. Go eat some junk and watch some rubbish this Christmas. — O.W.

How to watch: Home Alone is now streaming on Disney+, and is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

23. The Preacher's Wife (1996) Credit: Touchstone / Kobal / Shutterstock

A cozy Christmas movie starring Whitney Houston and Denzel Washington — what could be better? In director Penny Marshall's The Preacher's Wife, a remake of 1947's The Bishop's Wife, Washington plays a charming angel sent down to Earth to help save a marriage in shambles. Houston's Julia is growing impatient with her pastor husband Henry (Courtney B. Vance), who's distracted by his dwindling church membership. Washington's jovial Dudley is just the spark that the family needs. His wit and doting attention remind Julia of what things used to be like with her and Henry, and the pastor grows jealous. But no worries; Dudley is just here to revitalize the pastor's faith and remind him of the important things he's let slip as Christmas approaches. The Preacher's Wife is warm and full of heart, and also features one of the silliest Denzel Washington performances that simply must be seen. — O.W.

How to watch: The Preacher's Wife is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

22. Meet Me in St. Louis (1944)

Nothing says a Christmas classic like a Judy Garland song. In Meet Me in St. Louis, we get several memorable Garland numbers, from the classic “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” to the buoyant "Trolley Song." 

The 1944 Vincente Minnelli musical tells the story of the wealthy Smith family living in St. Louis, Missouri, one year before the 1904 World's Fair. All is well for them until the devastating news arrives that the family must relocate to New York City immediately after Christmas for their father's new job. The two eldest Smith daughters, Esther (Garland) and Rose (Lucille Bremer) are distraught, since they're both in love with local boys and have their futures planned near home. Even the youngest, Tootie (Margaret O'Brien), is so upset that she destroys a bunch of snowmen in a fit of rage. But maybe, just maybe, the spirit of Christmas will turn things around for them. — O.W.

How to watch: Meet Me in St. Louis is now streaming on Tubi, and is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

21. Klaus (2019) Credit: Netflix

The majority of family-friendly Christmas movies often tell the same types of holiday stories about Santa. But Sergio Pablos' Klaus proposes a new origin story for Old Saint Nick. In the animated adventure, it all begins with a Norwegian postman named Jasper (voiced by Jason Schwartzman) who's sent away to an icy northern town called Smeerensburg to carry out his mail delivery duties. There he happens to stumble upon a reclusive bearded toymaker named Klaus (J.K. Simmons). When Jasper helps Klaus donate one of his creations to a local kid, soon every kid in town is desperate to send the toymaker a letter to get a gift in return. And so, Santa is born. Pablos' animated film is a welcome addition to the Christmas movie canon, not only for its originality but also for its gorgeous animation that's glowing with light and Christmasy warmth. — O.W.

How to watch: Klaus is now streaming on Netflix.

20. Carol (2015)

We all need a sad gay romance to weep over during the holidays, and there isn't one better than Carol. Todd Haynes' 1950s-set love story follows Cate Blanchett as the eye-catching Carol Aird, a glamorous mother recently separated from her irate, homophobic husband (Kyle Chandler), and Rooney Mara's budding young photographer, Therese Belivet. The two women begin to fall in love over a shared lunch of martinis and a trip to Carol's Connecticut home. But remember, this is the '50s, and Carol's queer relationship is soon used against her in her divorce.

Set over the holidays in New York City, Carol beautifully captures the Christmastime atmosphere of the East Coast in winter. There's a snowy trip to a tree lot, the frazzled energy of a department store amid the holiday shopping bustle, long winter coats and scarves, and the cozy relief of escaping the icy streets for a warm holiday party where eyes meet over cocktails. — O.W.

How to watch: Carol is now streaming on HBO Max, and is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.   

19. Tangerine (2015) Credit: Augustas Quirk / Magnolia / Duplass Brothers Prods / Kobal / Shutterstock

It's Christmas Eve in Hollywood and Sin-Dee (Kitana Kiki Rodriguez), a Black trans woman and sex worker, has just gotten out of jail. She meets up with her best friend Alexandra (Mya Taylor) and soon finds out that her pimp/boyfriend Chester (James Ransone) has been cheating on her — and not with just anyone, but with a white cis woman. Now it's time for revenge.

Tangerine follows the two friends over the course of the night as they walk across Hollywood searching for Chester. A simple story blossoms into a profound and emotional journey that sheds light on the real-life experiences many Black trans sex workers encounter on the daily. When Sean Baker's film first came out, it was praised for its low-budget indie style, and for being shot entirely on iPhones. But it's really the story, rich with intimate human moments and bursts of comedy, along with Rodriguez and Taylor's raw performances, that makes Tangerine such a moving film, and one about the power of chosen family. — O.W.

How to watch: Tangerine is now streaming on Hulu, and is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

18. Go (1999)

Forget cozy holiday dinners and family trips to the tree lot. This Christmas, why not go to a rave? That's how the kids in the '90s cult classic Go decide to celebrate the holiday season.

It's the night of a massive Santa-themed rave in Los Angeles, and two guys are looking to score some ecstasy. Sarah Polley's supermarket clerk Ronna is faced with being evicted, so she decides to become a dealer for the night. Yet things go incredibly wrong, incredibly fast. There's undercover cops, a pissed-off Las Vegas bouncer, car chases, a guy who took way too many pills, and lots and lots of anxiety. 

Watching Go is the exact opposite experience of watching a traditional Christmas movie; instead, it feels a lot like being on a bad trip at a rave. Sounds awful, I know, but I swear it's a blast! If you're itching for some adrenaline, a great '90s cast, and a taste of L.A. rave culture, look no further. — O.W.

How to watch: Go is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

17. The Holiday (2006) Credit: Sony Pictures / Kobal / Shutterstock

Sometimes you're so depressed and heartbroken after a breakup that the best solution is to get the heck out of town and spontaneously travel to a stranger's home in another country. Maybe you'll find your deepest self there, or maybe you'll meet a charming, kind man for once. In Nancy Meyers' pre-AirBnB romcom The Holiday, that's just what Cameron Diaz's Amanda and Kate Winslet's Iris do. Iris swaps her cozy English cottage to spend Christmas in the Hollywood Hills, while Amanda takes a break from her movie trailer-editing job in L.A. to soak in some English countryside solitude. A sweet holiday rom-com with all the signature Nancy Meyers' touches (sappy romance, picturesque homes, cozy cream sweaters, etc.), The Holiday checks all the boxes. — O.W.

How to watch: The Holiday is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

16. It's a Wonderful Life (1946)  Credit: Rko / Kobal / Shutterstock

In this endlessly rewatchable Christmas staple, Jimmy Stewart is the most generous man in town who puts his dreams aside to help save his neighbors during a financial crisis. Stewart's George Bailey skips his honeymoon, uses his savings to help his community, and even turns down a cushy high-paying job to put others first. But when things go terribly wrong on Christmas Eve, Bailey reaches a breaking point and steps onto a bridge, preparing to jump. That's when his guardian angel, Clarence (Henry Travers), arrives to show him just how different his town and family's life would be without him.

Frank Capra's It's a Wonderful Life is an enduring Christmas classic because it's a reminder of just how precious life is and the impact we have on those around us, even when we can't see it ourselves. It's the type of Christmas film you put on to get into the holiday mood, then suddenly find yourself sobbing, even if you've seen it a dozen times. — O.W.

How to watch: It's A Wonderful Life is now streaming on Prime Video, and is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV and Fandango at Home.

15. Elf (2003) Credit: Alan Markfield / New Line Prods / Kobal / Shutterstock

It's simply not Christmas without Will Ferrell, or a bowl of spaghetti and candy for breakfast. In Elf, Ferrell's Buddy spent his entire life growing up in the North Pole believing he was one of Santa's helpers, despite being enormously tall compared to all the others. Once he finally learns that he's an orphan, Buddy sets out to New York City to find his real father and embark on a series of silly misadventures. James Caan plays Buddy's father, Walter Hobbs, a hardened business exec who publishes children's books. The two are a perfect if chaotic pair — a goofy child-in-a-man's-body, and a grouchy, workaholic dad. For a playful family Christmas comedy that's got romance, humor, and big Manhattan-at-Christmas energy, you can't go wrong with Elf. — O.W.

How to watch: Elf is now streaming on HBO Max, and is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

14. Phantom Thread (2017) Credit: Moviestore / Shutterstock

If you're tapped out on sentimental Christmas movies, why not put on a seasonal period romance that's enjoyably cynical and even a bit kinky? Set in the 1950s, Paul Thomas Anderson's Phantom Thread is all about relationship power dynamics. A perfectionist London dressmaker named Reynolds Woodcock (Daniel Day-Lewis) falls for a waitress, Alma (an excellent Vicky Krieps). However, he soon discovers his new muse isn't as submissive as the usual women he casually dates and discards. After Reynolds experiences a bout of sickness, the couple's dynamic takes a fascinating turn. And while the holiday season is technically only present as a backdrop for a handful of scenes — notably some of the most emotionally charged of their romance — Phantom Thread has a wintry, even ghostly, Christmas atmosphere throughout. — O.W.

How to watch: Phantom Thread is now streaming on Netflix, and is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

13. The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) Credit: Jim Henson Productions / Kobal / Shutterstock

Imagine being a grumpy Scrooge when you're surrounded by a town full of silly Muppets. Michael Caine is as cantankerous as ever as Ebenezer Scrooge in The Muppet Christmas Carol. In the Jim Henson musical take on Dickens' classic, Caine humbugs around London as the townsfolk sing about his coldheartedness. Gonzo and Rizzo narrate the musical film, injecting it with humor and shenanigans throughout. Kermit plays Scrooge's benevolent employee Bob Cratchit, with Miss Piggy as Mrs. Cratchit and Robin the Frog as the adorable Tiny Tim. The whole Muppet gang appears throughout, and while the film follows the same beats of A Christmas Carol, the familiar cast of characters and added music make it an extra joyous watch. — O.W.

How to watch: The Muppet Christmas Carol is now streaming on Disney+, and is available to rent or purchase on Apple TV, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

12. Moonstruck (1987)

Some people watch A Christmas Story every December, while others put on Moonstruck. The romantic comedy may not be about Christmas, but in almost every scene it gives off big Christmas energy. There's Cher's Loretta walking through the snowy streets of New York City in a long black trench coat and sipping wine by a fireplace. There's the Lincoln Center tree lit up behind Loretta and Nic Cage's Ronny as they attend the opera. There's the twinkling of string lights and Christmas decor along the streets and shops in the backdrop. The energy of Christmas is all around in this movie as Loretta falls in love with the ill-tempered Ronny while his brother (her fiancé) is away in Sicily. While Moonstruck is a perfect movie to watch any day of the year, it's especially fitting to snuggle up with it during the holiday season. — O.W.

How to watch: Moonstruck is now streaming on Prime Video, The Roku Channel, Tubi, and Pluto TV, and is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV and Fandango at Home.

11. Miracle on 34th Street (1994)

When you imagine a picturesque Santa Claus, jolly, endearing, and kind, no one fits the bill better than Richard Attenborough in Miracle on 34th Street. The beloved actor just looks the part, with his rosy cheeks, warm smile, and inviting demeanor. Sadly, no one in Manhattan except a 6-year-old girl named Susan actually believes he's Santa.

In the wholesome 1994 remake of the classic film from 1947, Attenborough plays a sweet old man named Kris Kringle who gets hired to play Santa at a Manhattan department store. Kris keeps insisting that he's actually the famous guy from the North Pole, but everyone in New York seems to have lost the spirit of Christmas so much that a plot is formed to institutionalize the poor guy. It's up to Susan (Mara Wilson) and a lawyer (Dylan McDermott) to defend Kris Kringle in court and prove that he's not just wearing a red and white suit for a seasonal gig. — O.W.

How to watch: Miracle on 34th Street is now streaming on Peacock, Paramount+, Disney+ and The Roku Channel, and is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV and Fandango at Home.

10. The Polar Express (2004)

Leave it to filmmaker Robert Zemeckis to bring the wonder of a children’s book to vivid life on screen. The Polar Express expands Chris Van Allsburg’s beloved Christmas story into a film about a young boy who boards a magical train on its way to the North Pole. Tom Hanks plays and voices a handful of roles, including the train's conductor, a Scrooge puppet, and Santa Claus himself. What’s most notable about The Polar Express is the visual world it creates, converting the quiet classicism and awe of the book’s illustrations into a CG world. Back in 2004, it was the first feature-length film to be shot entirely using motion-capture, and the first big studio IMAX 3D movie to ever hit screens. While those visuals have certainly not aged well with time, The Polar Express still manages to capture the magical spirit of Christmas viewed through the eyes of a child.* — O.W.

How to watch: The Polar Express is now streaming on Hulu.

9. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)

In this charming sequel to the smash hit Home Alone, Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) winds up in the Big Apple without his family. But fret not, this clever kid is quick to make friends with an unhoused pigeon lover and a kindly toy store owner. He makes enemies too, including Tim Curry as a dastardly hotel concierge. And of course, the Wet Bandits (Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern) are back and up to criminal shenanigans once more!

For my money, this sequel is even better than its predecessor. Kevin has more foes to outwit, more outlandish traps to set, and there's no beating New York in winter. It's a beautiful and moving movie that's terrific fun for the whole family. — Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor

How to watch: Home Alone 2: Lost in New York is now streaming on Hulu.

8. Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) Credit: Ron Batzdorff / Imagine Ent / Kobal / Shutterstock

Director Ron Howard dared to imagine how Dr. Seuss' iconic holiday humbug might look in live-action. And who better to take on the role of such an iconically comical character than rubber-faced movie star Jim Carrey? While down in Whoville, cheery citizens plan for gift-giving, celebrations, and feasts, high above them in his cave the green-furred and self-loathing Grinch plots a plan to ruin Christmas. Among the more bizarre elements of this adaptation was a schmaltzy backstory that explained the Grinch's hatred of Christmas and facial prosthetics that turned the likes of Christine Baranski, Molly Shannon, and Jeffrey Tambor into Whos. Yet over the decades, these quirks have been embraced by a generation that sees Carrey's capering as the ultimate Grinch. — K.P.

How to watch: Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas is now streaming on Peacock.

7. Love Actually (2003) Credit: Moviestore / Shutterstock

Perhaps the most polarizing movie of the holiday season, Love Actually is a collection of interlocking vignettes all about — well — love. There's the story of the timid prime minister (Hugh Grant) who falls for a sassy staff member (Martine McCutcheon), the story of the widower (Liam Neeson) guiding his stepson through puppy love, the shy American (Laura Linney) with a crush on her office mate (Rodrigo Santoro), and Alan Rickman playing his most villainous holiday role as the heartbreaker of Emma Thompson. (I too have seen Die Hard. I said what I said.)

Written and directed by Richard Curtis, Love Actually is both wildly popular and widely derided for some of its quirks. But the awesome star power and unapologetically joyful love stories keep us coming back year after year. — K.P.

How to watch: Love Actually is now streaming on Peacock.

6. The Santa Clause (1994) Credit: Disney / Kobal / Shutterstock

Ah yes, the classic '90s movie where Tim Allen accidentally kills Santa. In The Santa Clause, the first of what would soon become a trilogy, Allen’s Scott is a divorced marketing exec who doesn’t believe in Santa. After Scott spooks the old guy mid-present delivery, Santa tumbles off the roof to his death. Dark! When Scott puts on the magical suit to please his young son Charlie (Eric Lloyd), he becomes bound by the holy North Pole contract stipulating that he now must carry the mantle as the new Saint Nick. He isn’t exactly up for the job and ends up being a pretty grouchy Santa, not to mention a lactose-intolerant one, much to the disappointment of one little girl expecting him to drink his customary glass of milk. Despite some icky fatphobic jokes over Scott’s Santa weight gain, The Santa Clause is a delightfully strange and charming family movie with a clever story and some signature sardonic Tim Allen humor.* — O.W.

How to watch: The Santa Clause is now streaming on Hulu.

5. Die Hard (1988)

Forget fresh baked cookies and decorating the tree. The one true way to tap into the Christmas spirit each year is watching Bruce Willis climb elevator shafts and run barefoot through broken glass. 

It’s Dec. 24, 1988, and NYPD detective John McClane (Willis) has just arrived at the Nakatomi Corporation Christmas party to reconnect with his estranged wife (Bonnie Bedelia) — ya know, to come out to the coast and have a few laughs. Unfortunately (or rather, fortunately for our viewing pleasure) Alan Rickman’s Hans Gruber has decided to crash the party with his long-haired German henchmen to steal some bearer bonds. “It’s Christmas, Theo,” Hans tells his safecracker. “A time for miracles!” Too bad for him this Christmas miracle arrives in a bloody tank top and sporting a cranky disposition; McClane won’t let these thieves get away easily.* — O.W.

How to watch: Die Hard is now streaming on Hulu.

4. Batman Returns (1992) Credit: Zade Rosenthal / Warner Bros / DC Comics / Kobal / Shutterstock

Leave it up to Tim Burton to inject a brooding darkness into the holiday season. After Edward Scissorhands but before The Nightmare Before Christmas, Burton gave us Batman Returns. And yes, it is indeed a Christmas movie.

First of all, it's a Batman film where Gotham City actually looks and feels festive and colorful for the first time. Burton's extravagant sets are filled with towering Christmas trees blanketed in string lights and ornaments; there's the tree-lighting ceremony where the Red Triangle Circus Gang jump out of a massive gift box; there's the penguin army strapped with candy cane-striped rockets; and, of course, there's the fact that mistletoe plays an important role in the plot.* — O.W.

How to watch: Batman Returns is now streaming on HBO Max and is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV and Prime Video.

3. A Christmas Story (1983) Credit: Mgm / UA / Kobal / Shutterstock

Every kid remembers that one toy they desperately wanted more than anything else for Christmas. It dominates every moment of your young life as you plead for it and shake presents to guess at what's inside. For 9-year-old Ralphie (Peter Billingsley), that Christmas gift fixation is a BB gun. Unfortunately, everyone from his mom to the local department store's grumpy Santa rejects his wish by looking out for his safety. “You'll shoot your eye out!” they shout.

A Christmas Story is in many ways the perfect movie to watch on Christmas Day. It's warm and nostalgic, wacky and playful, and accurately captures a child's view of Christmas. Plus, it's one of a kind — no other holiday movie features a leg lamp, tongues stuck on a frozen pole, and elves shoving screaming children down a giant slide.* — O.W.

How to watch: A Christmas Story is streaming on Hulu.

2. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989)

The third installment in the National Lampoon’s Vacation series opens with the only Griswold family vacation in the film: a trip to a forest where Clark (Chevy Chase) gleefully drags his family out into the snow to cut down their own Christmas tree. From there, many classic Griswold hijinks ensue as Clark goes out of his way to plan the most over-the-top Christmas of all time. That includes decking out his roof in hundreds of string lights to the point of knocking out the entire city’s power grid, the unexpected arrival of his wife’s cousin and her cigar-smoking husband (Randy Quaid), an indoor squirrel attack, a cat wrapped inside a gift box, a very pissed-off Julia Louis-Dreyfus as his snooty neighbor, a SWAT team storming the house, and so much more. It's total Christmas chaos, Griswold style.* — O.W.

How to watch: National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation is streaming on Hulu.

1. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) Credit: Touchstone / Kobal / Shutterstock

Tim Burton and director Henry Selick’s stop-motion masterwork isn’t a Halloween or a Christmas movie: It’s a spectacular fusion of both in the best of ways. The Nightmare Before Christmas is the perfect film for those who prefer their yuletide delights to come with a side dish of spookiness — and songs. Sick of movies where kids greedily open presents? Great, please enjoy a giant black and orange snake gobbling up gifts whole, along with the entire dang Christmas tree. Family comedies where a jolly old Santa rides his magical sleigh — yawn! How about one where Santa gets kidnapped and a kid gets a shrunken head for a gift? That’s exactly what happens when Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, loses his, well, joie de mort. Wandering sadly through the woods, Jack stumbles into a series of parallel worlds, each dedicated to a different holiday. When he lands in Christmas Town, his bony little mind is blown, and he dedicates himself to learning everything he can about this warm and magical place, and its strange leader named Sandy Claws. There's mischief and romance, a mad scientist and a singing boogeyman, not to mention a voice cast that includes Chris Sarandon, Catherine O'Hara, and the late, great Paul Reubens.

Brilliant in everything from its stunning animation and clever story to its detailed world-building and endlessly catchy music, there’s nothing quite like the haunting magic and whimsy of The Nightmare Before Christmas.* — O.W.

How to watch: The Nightmare Before Christmas is streaming on Hulu Live TV.

UPDATE: Dec. 17, 2025, 1:29 p.m. EST This list was first published on Nov. 28, 2024. It has been updated to reflect current streaming options.

Christmas movies are about shameless joy, uninhibited sweetness, and guaranteed happy endings. We don’t always have to be challenged. We don’t always have to learn more about the human condition. Sometimes we just want to be happy, and this list of yuletide films, from the classics to the unconventional, are sure to spark that cozy feeling of twinkling lights and sugarplum dreams in your tired old candy-cane bones.

The best part? They're all streaming on Hulu, so you can watch 'em ASAP, from the comfort of your very own Grinch cave, er, couch.

20. Elf (2003) Will Ferrell in "Elf." Credit: Alan Markfield / New Line Prods / Kobal / Shutterstock

Will Ferrell’s Buddy will stand for no man sitting upon a throne of lies and pretending to be his beloved Santa, and he will launch into a full-on brawl in front of children to prove it. Ferrell playing a full-grown adult man who’s spent his life believing he was an actual elf in the North Pole in Jon Favreau’s Elf is, undoubtedly, peak Christmas comedy. When Buddy finally learns he’s a human who was an orphan, he sets out to find his real father in New York City — and it turns out he's a workaholic publishing exec played by James Caan. There's epic snowball fights, a romance with Zooey Deschanel, and every kid’s dream: spaghetti candy breakfast. With any other actor in the lead, Elf could have easily been an obnoxious, forgettable family comedy, but it’s Ferrell’s goofball antics and total commitment to the bit that make the film funny as heck, even 20 years later. — Oliver Whitney, Freelance Contributor

How to watch: Elf is streaming on Hulu.

19. Die Hard (1988)

Forget fresh-baked cookies and decorating the tree. The one true way to tap into the Christmas spirit each year is watching Bruce Willis climb elevator shafts and run barefoot through broken glass. 

It’s December 24, 1988, and NYPD detective John McClane (Willis) has just arrived at the Nakatomi Corporation Christmas party to reconnect with his estranged wife (Bonnie Bedelia) — ya know, to come out to the coast and have a few laughs. Unfortunately (or rather, fortunately for our viewing pleasure) Alan Rickman’s Hans Gruber has decided to crash the party with his long-haired German henchmen to steal some bearer bonds. “It’s Christmas, Theo,” Hans tells his safecracker. “A time for miracles!” Too bad for him this Christmas miracle arrives in a bloody tank top and sporting a cranky disposition; McClane won’t let these thieves get away easily. — O.W.

How to watch: Die Hard is streaming on Hulu.

18. A Christmas Story (1983)

Every kid remembers that one toy they desperately wanted more than anything else for Christmas. It dominates every moment of your young life as you plead for it and shake presents to guess at what's inside. For 9-year-old Ralphie (Peter Billingsley), that Christmas gift fixation is a BB gun. Unfortunately, everyone from his mom to the local department store's grumpy Santa rejects his wish by looking out for his safety. “You'll shoot your eye out!” they shout.

A Christmas Story is in many ways the perfect movie to watch on Christmas Day. It's warm and nostalgic, wacky and playful, and accurately captures a child's view of Christmas. Plus, it's one of a kind — no other holiday movie features a leg lamp, tongues stuck on a frozen pole, and elves shoving screaming children down a giant slide. — O.W.

How to watch: A Christmas Story is streaming on Hulu.

17. The Preacher's Wife (1996) Credit: Touchstone / Kobal / Shutterstock

In Penny Marshall’s The Preacher’s Wife, Courtney B. Vance’s Reverend Henry Biggs is having a rough time. He’s spread himself so thin helping out his parishioner community, struggling with dwindling membership, and battling a real estate mogul trying to buy up his church that he’s hardly present for his family. It’s almost Christmas and he can’t make time for his wife, a singer named Julia (Whitney Houston), or take his son shopping. He prays for help, and suddenly, God delivers the greatest gift of all: a wide-eyed, buoyant angel in the form of Denzel Washington. Washington’s Dudley tries his hardest to provide guidance to the stubborn reverend, but he soon finds himself also growing quite fond of Julia, because you simply can’t put Denzel Washington and Whitney Houston in a movie together and not have romantic chemistry.

The Preacher’s Wife is a touching Christmas story that celebrates the importance of family over all else, but the real standouts are, of course, every time we get to hear Houston sing, and a delightful series of moments where a goofy Washington loses his mind when eating New York pizza and halal. — O.W.

How to watch: The Preacher’s Wife is streaming on Hulu Live TV.

16. Jingle All the Way (1996)

If anyone is going to successfully get their kid the hottest toy of the year that's completely sold out, it's Arnold, baby. In the '90s holiday classic Jingle All the Way, Arnold Schwarzenegger's Howard is a pretty crummy dad who spends more time at work than with his son, Jamie (Jake Lloyd). To make it up to him, Howard decides to get Jamie the one thing he wants for Christmas — a Turbo Man action figure. When the toy store shelves are empty on Christmas Eve, Howard goes on a mission to find a Turbo Man at any cost, from a black market salesman to a radio station giveaway and plenty more shenanigans, like running from the cops and even a fake bomb threat. It's outrageously silly in the best way. — O.W.

How to watch: Jingle All the Way is streaming on Hulu.

15. Tangerine (2015) 

It’s Christmas Eve in a Hollywood donut shop and Sin-Dee Rella (Kitana Kiki Rodriguez) has just gotten out of jail; unfortunately, a normal occurrence for trans sex workers like her. Now her best friend, Alexandra (Mya Taylor), is telling Sin-Dee that her boyfriend and pimp Chester (James Ransone) has been cheating on her the whole time, and with a cis woman. She sets out on a mission to track him and his other girlfriend down. 

SEE ALSO: 70 essential LGBTQ films to stream right now

Sean Baker’s ultra-low budget Tangerine, which he famously shot entirely on iPhones, captures a gritty reality that’s rarely seen in traditional holiday movies, which usually center well-off families with stable incomes and cozy romances. Here, Sin-Dee’s family is Alexandra and other trans sisters along the stroll, and the men they interact with are sneaking away from their wives and children at home for sex. But don’t mistake Tangerine for a gloomy downer. Baker’s film is bursting with comedy, energy, and heart, all thanks to Rodriguez and Taylor’s radiant performances. Ultimately, Tangerine is a moving story about surviving with chosen family, something queer and trans audiences could surely use more of. — O.W.

How to watch: Tangerine is streaming on Hulu.

14. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989) Credit: THA / Shutterstock

The third installment in the National Lampoon’s Vacation series opens with the only Griswold family vacation in the film: a trip to a forest where Clark (Chevy Chase) gleefully drags his family out into the snow to cut down their own Christmas tree. From there, many classic Griswold hijinks ensue as Clark goes out of his way to plan the most over-the-top Christmas of all time. That includes decking out his roof in hundreds of string lights to the point of knocking out the entire city’s power grid, the unexpected arrival of his wife’s cousin and her cigar-smoking husband (Randy Quaid), an indoor squirrel attack, a cat wrapped inside a gift box, a very pissed-off Julia Louis-Dreyfus as his snooty neighbor, a SWAT team storming the house, and so much more. It's total Christmas chaos, Griswold style. — O.W.

How to watch: National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation is streaming on Hulu.

13. It's a Wonderful Life (1946)  James Stewart and Donna Reed star in "It's a Wonderful Life." Credit: Rko/Kobal/Shutterstock

In It’s a Wonderful Life, Jimmy Stewart’s George Bailey is the type of man who always puts his community first, even using his honeymoon savings to keep his father’s local bank afloat so residents can finance their homes. But on Christmas Eve, the menacing board member Mr. Potter (Lionel Barrymore) intends to shut the bank down. When the money to keep it running gets misplaced at the last minute, a completely devastated George steps onto a bridge and prepares to jump. Suddenly, an angel named Clarence (Henry Travers) appears to show George what his beloved town would be like had he never been born, and it’s not a jolly picture.

Frank Capra’s holiday staple may be a saccharine Christmas tale, but it tells a bigger story beyond its holiday framing. It’s not only about the importance of gratitude and family during the Christmas season, but more broadly, it’s a story about the power of community and everyday people supporting one another across shared struggles. It’s a reminder of the significant impact every person has on those around them, and while that may be cheesy, it’s a poignant and forever-relevant thing to be reminded of, even beyond Christmas. — O.W.

How to watch: It’s a Wonderful Life is streaming on Hulu Live TV.

12. The Family Stone (2005) Credit: 20th Century Fox / Kobal / Shutterstock

The Family Stone is a crucial holiday movie for one very important reason: Afterward, you will forever be haunted by the fear of dropping the casserole all over the kitchen floor on Christmas morning. Personally, I think of Diane Keaton, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Rachel McAdams every time I bake a casserole, and thankfully, I’ve yet to drop one. But that’s just one of the many devastating moments in this dramedy about a dysfunctional family reuniting for the holidays. Parker plays Meredith, who’s visiting her boyfriend Everett’s (Dermot Mulroney) family for Christmas, which of course means chaos. There are arguments at dinner with Everett’s gay brother, who announces plans to adopt a child; there’s a car crash, more arguments, and a developing love triangle. It’s the perfect taste of comedic familial mayhem to distract you from your own dysfunctional family this holiday season (and, of course, to remind you to save your precious casseroles). With Keaton's passing, the movie might hit even harder. — O.W. 

How to watch: The Family Stone is streaming on Hulu.

11. Every Day Is Christmas (2018)

In this Lifetime take on Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, Toni Braxton is a modern-day Scrooge. The R&B legend plays Alexis Taylor, a work-obsessed money manager who runs her own financial firm and hates the holidays.

On Christmas Eve, when Alexis realizes the firm hasn't hit its annual goals, she does what any terrible boss would do — she cancels Christmas bonuses and threatens to fire anyone who doesn't show up for work the next morning (yes, on Christmas Day). She's a jerk, but we, of course, learn there's a tragic reason behind her curmudgeonliness. In Dickensian fashion, the ghost of Alexis' mother arrives late into the night to usher her into the past, help her better understand the present, and show her what her future may hold. Every Day Is Christmas is definitely a Lifetime movie full of sappy dialogue, some cringe acting, and an obvious storyline, but it's a pleasantly enjoyable one thanks to Braxton's charisma and all the flashy dresses she gets to wear. — O.W.

How to watch: Every Day Is Christmas is streaming on Hulu.

10. Edward Scissorhands (1990)  Credit: 20th Century Fox / Kobal / Shutterstock

Most people may not think of Edward Scissorhands as a Christmas movie, but I’d argue it still counts. One of the most visceral and memorable moments from the beloved Tim Burton film is Winona Ryder’s Kim twirling in the ice, falling from Edward’s (Johnny Depp) angel sculpture as Danny Elfman’s ethereal score plays. It’s that beautiful, magical, heart-swelling moment that sticks in Kim’s memory, and it's what frames the opening and closing of Burton’s tale. That snowy moment is also the beginning of the end of joy for Edward. 

In Burton’s film, Christmas isn’t a time of warmth, acceptance, or kindness. Instead it's marked by cruelty and isolation. It’s when Frankenstein’s monster with blades for hands is cast out from the normalcy of a pastel suburb and driven into the dark mansion above. It’s lonely, sad, and heartbreaking, and there’s something incredibly relatable about that for anyone who may not have an easy relationship with or a comfortable home for the holidays. Who needs Santa when we can tell bedtime stories about Edward, up in his castle creating snow flurries and sculpting away? — O.W.

How to watch: Edward Scissorhands is streaming on Hulu.

9. The Santa Clause (1994) Eric Lloyd and Tim Allen ride in Santa's sleigh in "The Santa Clause." Credit: Disney/Kobal/Shutterstock

Ah yes, the classic '90s movie where Tim Allen accidentally kills Santa. In The Santa Clause, the first of what would soon become a trilogy, Allen’s Scott is a divorced marketing exec who doesn’t believe in Santa. After Scott spooks the old guy mid-present delivery, Santa tumbles off the roof to his death. Dark! When Scott puts on the magical suit to please his young son Charlie (Eric Lloyd), he becomes bound by the holy North Pole contract stipulating that he now must carry the mantle as the new Saint Nick. He isn’t exactly up for the job and ends up being a pretty grouchy Santa, not to mention a lactose-intolerant one, much to the disappointment of one little girl expecting him to drink his customary glass of milk. Despite some icky fatphobic jokes over Scott’s Santa weight gain, The Santa Clause is a delightfully strange and charming family movie with a clever story and some signature sardonic Tim Allen humor. — O.W.

How to watch: The Santa Clause is streaming on Hulu.

8. The Polar Express (2004)

Leave it to filmmaker Robert Zemeckis to bring the wonder of a children’s book to vivid life on screen. The Polar Express expands Chris Van Allsburg’s beloved Christmas story into a film about a young boy who boards a magical train on its way to the North Pole. Tom Hanks plays and voices a handful of roles, including the train's conductor, a Scrooge puppet, and Santa Claus himself. What’s most notable about The Polar Express is the visual world it creates, converting the quiet classicism and awe of the book’s illustrations into a CG world. Back in 2004, it was the first feature-length film to be shot entirely using motion-capture, and the first big studio IMAX 3D movie to ever hit screens. While those visuals have certainly not aged well with time, The Polar Express still manages to capture the magical spirit of Christmas viewed through the eyes of a child. — O.W.

How to watch: The Polar Express is streaming on Hulu.

7. Happiest Season (2020) An excellent cast for this modern Christmas flick. Credit: Hulu

The perfect Christmas rom-com for the 2020s, Happiest Season follows young couple Harper (Mackenzie Davis) and Abby (Kristen Stewart) as they head to Harper’s family’s home for Christmas. The only issue is that Harper has yet to come out to her family, which leaves Abby in the uncomfortable position of having to lie about herself for the holidays. The cast here is top-notch. Kristen Stewart and Mackenzie Davis shine in their lead roles, and the internet had a complete breakdown about how magnetic Aubrey Plaza is as Harper’s ex-girlfriend, Riley. Alison Brie, Dan Levy, Mary Holland, Victor Garber, and Mary Steenburgen round out the sparkling cast in this film co-written and directed by Clea DuVall. 

It’s a much-needed and utterly modern take on the holiday romance. And what’s more, it feels believable, which is almost unheard of for a Christmas movie! Don’t waste another second waiting to watch this intelligent, funny, and cheerily sincere film. — Kristina Grosspietsch, Freelance Contributor

How to watch: Happiest Season is streaming on Hulu.

6. Little Women (2019)

The most comforting Christmas movies don't always need to be about Christmas. In Greta Gerwig's adaptation of Louisa May Alcott's classic novel, the warmth and coziness of the holiday season is blanketed everywhere across the screen in Little Women. As we follow the lives of the March sisters in the years after the Civil War, not only does Christmas weave in and out of the plot, but Gerwig captures an icy, wintry atmosphere that makes you feel smack in the middle of the holidays. The sisters are always bundled up in their layers of 19th-century winter gear, and the orange glow of the fireplace, draped with stockings and garlands, fills the March home with an inviting coziness. Little Women also embraces the spirit of Christmas, from its message of generosity as Marmee (Laura Dern) encourages her daughters to give their Christmas breakfast to those without food to the importance of the family being together. — O.W.

How to watch: Little Women is streaming on Hulu.

5. The Mistle-Tones (2012)

Tia Mowry is Holly, a bubbly woman whose greatest dream in life is to join the local Christmas cover group, the Snow Belles, and spend every Christmas Eve… checks notes … singing at the mall. But when Holly is denied a spot in the group by Snow Belle queen and diva Marci, played by none other than Tori Spelling, she starts her own singing group and competes with the Snow Belles for the coveted mall gig. 

The Mistle-Tones is fun and fluffy, and it stays engaging thanks to its multiple Christmas medley performances. There is romance here for Holly — her boss is a standoffish workaholic? I bet that’s about to change!!! — but Mowry and Spelling are both so accustomed to the camera, their casual self-assurance tends to steal most of their scenes. — K.G.

How to Watch: The Mistle-Tones is streaming on Hulu.

4. Almost Christmas (2016) Credit: Universal Studios / Kobal / Shutterstock

In Almost Christmas, it's the Meyers' family's first time getting together for the holidays without their beloved matriarch. Danny Glover's Walter lost his wife, Grace, 10 months ago, and he's struggling as the family begins to arrive for Christmas. 

The holiday dramedy from playwright and filmmaker David E. Talbert (Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey), is full of dysfunctional family drama and playful hijinks. The eldest son, Christian (Romany Malco), is running for Congress and won't step away from his work to be with family. Gabrielle Union's single mother, Rachel, is being courted by a friendly neighbor (Omar Epps), but she's too independent-minded to flirt back. J.B. Smoove's Lonnie attempts to fix the broken animatronic Santa, even though he doesn't know a thing about electronics. The entire family hates Aunt May's (Mo'Nique) cooking. And worst of all, no one can find Grace's special box of recipes in time for Christmas dinner. — O.W.

How to watch: Almost Christmas is streaming on Hulu.

3. Merry Liddle Christmas (2019)

In the Lifetime movie Merry Liddle Christmas, Kelly Rowland plays an entrepreneur named Jacquie Liddle who lives in a luxury home full of high-tech bells and whistles. This year, she's decided to host the family for Christmas at her house. The only thing is, it has to look absolutely perfect, since a camera crew is coming to film her home. That means swapping a colorful tree for a fake white one with gold tinsel, getting rid of some family-favorite decorations, and doing away with other traditions, which her mother is definitely not happy about.

There's no real crisis or major drama (it is a Lifetime movie, after all), but the main points of contention are how freaked out Jacquie's parents are by her fancy gadgets (like a Roomba and Alexa-esque device that orders her groceries). Jacquie also doesn't get along with her sister, but soon she gets distracted by a single neighbor who catches her eye. If you're itching for more, check out not one but two Merry Liddle Christmas sequels in this Christmas movie trilogy. — O.W.

How to watch: Merry Liddle Christmas is streaming on Hulu Live TV.

2. Home Alone (1990) Macaulay Culkin is about to scream in "Home Alone." Credit: 20th Century Fox/Kobal/Shutterstock

Watching Macaulay Culkin's Kevin McCallister line his house with booby traps in Home Alone never gets old. It's also a great lesson for young kids left at home by their chaotic families in how to prepare for pesky burglars. Anything can be a weapon! Those old paint cans, your brother's pet tarantula, even a blow torch to burn the top off of a strange man's head can keep you safe. Home Alone has all the perfect ingredients to make a great, rewatchable Christmas movie with its wacky and playful plot, its charismatic cast, a sentimental message about the importance of family during the holidays, and some of the most quotable lines. Go eat some junk and watch some rubbish this Christmas.* — O.W.

How to watch: Home Alone is streaming on Hulu.

1. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)

In this charming sequel to the smash hit Home Alone, Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) winds up in the Big Apple without his family. But fret not, this clever kid is quick to make friends with an unhoused pigeon lover and a kindly toy store owner. He makes enemies too, including Tim Curry as a dastardly hotel concierge. And of course, the Wet Bandits (Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern) are back and up to criminal shenanigans once more!

For my money, the sequel is even better than its predecessor. Kevin has more foes to outwit, more outlandish traps to set, and there's no beating New York in winter. It's a beautiful and moving movie that's terrific fun for the whole family.* — Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor

How to watch: Home Alone 2: Lost in New York is streaming on Hulu.

UPDATE: Dec. 16, 2025, 2:07 p.m. EST This list has been updated to include the latest Hulu offerings.

Do you need a little Christmas? Right this very minute? Then we recommend you head to Netflix, where an array of holiday movies are present and ready to be unwrapped.

This winter, the streaming service has a festive lineup perfect for whiling away the chilly days and nights at home or picking up your mood if it needs a lift. Whether you're seeking something joyful, tragic, or even action-packed, Netflix has a holiday movie to suit your desire.

And, of course, if you're looking for specific recommendations of excellence, we've made a list and checked it twice. Here are some of the best Christmas movies streaming on Netflix this winter season

25. Yule logs a plenty!

Not all of us have the privilege of a cozy fireplace to set the seasonal mood this holiday. But Netflix has an ever-growing variety of yule logs to give you the glow and calming crackling sounds — all without the fire hazard!

In their linked library of yule logs, there's classic version, but also different aesthetics, like "mid-century modern" and "rustic cabin." And if you are a fan of Stranger Things, KPop Demon Hunters, Wednesday, Witcher, or Bridgerton, you'll be pleased to find yule logs customized to your liking. — Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor

How to watch: Yule logs of all sorts are now streaming on Netflix.

24. Last Christmas

Want a holiday rom-com that's absolutely outrageous? Turn on Last Christmas. Directed by Paul Feig and co-written by Emma Thompson, this winter-set love story stars Emilia Clarke as Kate, a mixed-up young woman who has a dead-end job at a Christmas shop and has caught the eye of a handsome stranger (Henry Golding). When she's not being nagged by her mother (Thompson), Kate is trying to find her path in life and maybe a chance at love. But before you think you know how this one will turn out, please know it's based on the George Michael song, "Last Christmas," and take the chorus very literally. — K.P.

How to watch: Last Christmas is now streaming on Netflix.

23. Champagne Problems Credit: Mika Cotellon / Netflix

Thirsty for some seasonal rom-com fun? Then you'll want to plunge into Champagne Problems.

Minka Kelly stars as Sydney Price, an ambitious American executive who's traveling to Paris for business. There, like many a rom-com heroine before her, she meets a dashing stranger (Tom Wozniczka), and naturally they share a big, swoonworthy kiss — only to find out they are enemies! (We love an enemies-to-friends arc.)

See, Sydney is on a mission to acquire Chateau Cassell, a family-owned business in France's Champagne region. Her handsome kisser? It just so happens he's Henri Cassell, son of Chateau Cassell's founder, and he doesn't want his dad to sell to some boorish American. Sparks are sure to fly, as these two can't deny their chemistry.* — K.P.

How to watch: Champagne Problems is now streaming on Netflix.

22. My Secret Santa Credit: Diyah Pera/Netflix

Imagine Tootsie but as a gender-flipped holiday rom-com. Hear me out.

In Tootsie, Dustin Hoffman plays an actor who feels there are no good roles for men. So he dresses in drag to get a role as a woman on a TV show. Now, in My Secret Santa, it's that — except a single mom wants to get her daughter discounted snowboarding lessons, so applies for a job as a ski resort Santa by taking on the look and persona of an old man who happens to look like Santa (if he was made of plastic).

There's just one problem. Out of her holly jolly drag, she catches the eye of a handsome man (Ryan Eggold) who has ties to the resort. If they fall for each other, could her Santa secret get out? What would that mean for her daughter's snowboarding lessons? And can love win when it's based on a beard-faced lie?* — K.P.

How to watch: My Secret Santa is now streaming on Netflix.

21. Carry-On Credit: Netflix

Director Jaume Collet-Serra has excited audiences with the shark-infested Shallows, the twisted killer thriller Orphan, and Liam Neeson vehicles like Non-Stop and Unknown. Now, he's teaming up with Taron Egerton (Rocketman, Kingsman: The Secret Service) for an unusual holiday adventure.

Set in a Los Angeles airport on Christmas Eve, Carry-On follows a TSA agent (Egerton) who is desperate to stop a suspicious package from making it to a deadly destination. There are some truly wild things in this cat-and-mouse game that pits an eager Egerton in everyday hero mode against Jason Bateman as a snarling mercenary hellbent on getting his package delivered, whatever the collateral damage. Those seeking fresh thrills will relish Collet-Serra's competent approach to suspense, and may well feel their travel anxiety spike. But hey, can we all admit that asking English hunk Egerton to do an American accent is a crime against cinema? It's not even that he's bad at at. It's more that, in a world where so much is terrible, why waste even a moment by not hearing Egerton in his native tongue?* — K.P.

How to watch: Carry-On is now streaming on Netflix.

20. Home for Christmas Credit: Netflix

Not a movie but a three-season series out of Norway, Home for Christmas is a must-watch for the holiday season. The wildly charming Ida Elise Broch stars as Johanne, a 30-year-old single nurse who is tired of being chucked to the kids' table for the holidays. So, she tells a little lie, claiming she'll be bringing a beau to her parents' Christmas Eve dinner. Now, she just needs to find someone before the holiday is upon her!

With episodes running under 30 minutes, Home for Christmas is a short-and-sweet treat that explores love and sex while also confronting the frustrating social standards put on women to mate up. While there are doses of sobering drama as Johanne confronts loneliness, family discord, and loss, the series is overwhelmingly warm and funny. And if you're not into subtitles, the overdub is perfect for watching while gift-wrapping! — K.P.

How to watch: Home for Christmas Seasons 1-3 are now streaming on Netflix.

19. Dolly Parton's Christmas on the Square Credit: Netflix

True Dolly Parton fans understand the country star to be more than the celebrity, hero, legend, and icon popular cultural has whittled her down to be. Dolly, you see, is a lifestyle — a way of being, an all-encompassing perspective on personhood. In Dolly Parton's Christmas on the Square, that high-level plane of existence gets the sparkly holiday treatment in a musical romp as shining as Dolly herself. Sure, the whole thing is ridiculously old-fashioned and not surprising in any way. But it's also got exquisite pageantry with Christmas spirit to spare. And of course, the songs are fantastic. — Alison Foreman, Entertainment Reporter

How to watch: Dolly Parton's Christmas on the Square is now streaming on Netflix.

18. The Christmas Chronicles Credit: Netflix

If you want to see Kurt Russell slap his butt as Santa, then you've come to the right place. Writer Matt Lieberman (Free Guy) and director Clay Kaytis reimagine the traditional "Someone's gotta save Christmas!" narrative in this familiar but still fun holiday outing with Russell as Old Saint Nick. Judah Lewis and Darby Camp star as a brother and sister who, in trying to catch proof of Santa, get more than they bargained for. Should you fall in love with this over-the-top universe, definitely check out The Christmas Chronicles: Part Two, which features Russell's life partner, Goldie Hawn, as Mrs. Claus. — A.F.

How to watch: The Christmas Chronicles is now streaming on Netflix.

17. Alien Xmas Credit: Netflix

Impress and entertain anyone you're with this holiday season by cuing up Netflix's hidden gem Alien Xmas. This sci-fi adventure from the team behind Elf's iconic stop-motion scenes delivers a charming tale of intergalactic thieves descending upon Earth to steal everything — including Christmas. Part How the Grinch Stole Christmas, part WALL-E, Alien Xmas is an adorable animated adventure that's great for kids and adults alike, with a timeless message. — A.F.

How to watch: Alien Xmas is now streaming on Netflix.

16. A Christmas Prince Credit: Netflix

Is A Christmas Prince a movie? Nay, it is a journey. Join our heroine, American journalist Amber Moore (Rose McIver) as she takes on an undercover assignment in the far-off country of Aldovia in this schmaltzy rom-com opposite Ben Lamb as the titular Christmas prince. This movie is exactly what you think it is, and if that's what you're the mood for, excellent news: Its even more outrageous sequels, A Christmas Prince: The Royal Wedding and A Christmas Prince: The Royal Baby, are streaming now too. God save King Richard Bevan Charlton. Long may he reign. — A.F.

How to watch: A Christmas Prince is now streaming on Netflix.

15. A Very Murray Christmas Credit: Netflix

Remember simpler times with Netflix's 2015 Christmas spectacular A Very Murray Christmas. Directed by Sofia Coppola, this magical presentation featuring Bill Murray has a very loose plot that primarily serves as a revolving door for guest appearances and musical numbers. With a runtime of just 56 minutes, the infectious levity of the project and its supporting cast (including Miley Cyrus, Amy Poehler, George Clooney, Chris Rock, and more) is sure to have you smiling fast. — A.F.

How to watch: A Very Murray Christmas is now streaming on Netflix.

14. Let It Snow Credit: Netflix

Director Luke Snellin's feature-length debut is without question the right pick for anyone on a YA kick come the holidays. With a stellar cast including Shameik Moore, Kiernan Shipka, Isabela Merced, Joan Cusack, and more, Let It Snow adapts the popular novel of the same name — telling three stories of love, friendship, and magic on Christmas Eve in a single small town. Sure, this movie is another offshoot of Love Actually's tremendous influence over the holiday genre catalog. But it's a good one. — A.F.

How to watch: Let It Snow is now streaming on Netflix.

13. Klaus Credit: Netflix

Want a different spin on Santa Klaus? Then check out director Sergio Pablos' utterly enchanting — and sharply funny — Klaus, which was nominated for Best Animated Film at the 2020 Academy Awards. Playing like a festive spin on The Emperor's New Groove, this inventive animated adventure centers on a self-centered rich boy named Jesper Johansson (voiced by a pitch-perfect Jason Schwartzman), who is pitched out of his life of privilege into a remote village that's divided by an intense feud. He's there to deliver the mail, and — in a convoluted but charming way — concocts a plan that involves a reclusive woodworker (J.K. Simmons) with a treasure trove of carved toys and a giddy group of kiddies eager to write letters for gift-getting wishes. How will all of that turn to holiday cheer? Discovering that is just a part of the whimsical magic of Klaus. — Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor

SEE ALSO: 'Klaus' director Sergio Pablos discusses the challenges of traditional 2D animation

How to watch: Klaus is now streaming on Netflix.

12. Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey Credit: Gareth Gatrell / Netflix

Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey is absurd in all the ways you actually want. As Mashable's Angie Han wrote in her official review of the steampunk musical extravaganza, "It's all entirely too much, in a way that feels just right — like a Christmas stocking bursting at the seams with too many goodies." Surprisingly sweet and an important step for Black representation in Christmas films, Jingle Jangle will make you happy this holiday. Pinky promise. — A.F.

SEE ALSO: 'Jingle Jangle' stars discuss representation in holiday films

How to watch: Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey is now streaming on Netflix.

11. A Boy Called Christmas Credit: Netflix

Sure, Christmas technically already has an origin story, but some of us are looking for a more epic, secular, fantastical tale to sink our teeth into. Enter: A Boy Called Christmas, adapted from the 2015 Matt Haig novel of the same name.

Featuring Henry Lawfull, Sally Hawkins, Kristen Wiig, Stephen Merchant, Jim Broadbent, Toby Jones, and Dame Maggie Smith, A Boy Called Christmas follows a young boy who embarks on an incredible adventure through the ice and snow to find the land of the elves and bring hope to his people. He's got a trusty mouse sidekick at his side and a can-do attitude. Hold on to your cocoa, folks; this movie is positively radiating with holiday spirit! — Kristina Grosspietsch, Freelance Contributing Writer

How to watch: A Boy Called Christmas is now streaming on Netflix.

10. Single All the Way Credit: Philippe Bosse / Netflix

After a bad breakup, Peter (Michael Urie) heads home to New Hampshire for the holidays with his best friend Nick (Philemon Chambers) in tow, hatching a foolproof plan to pretend to date Nick so his family won't harp on his recent heartbreak. As soon as he arrives, however, Peter's family sets him up with a hunky local spin instructor. And when things go well, Peter begins to wonder if maybe it’s time to move back to New Hampshire for good. Will Nick agree?

Written by Chad Hodge and directed by Michael Mayer — Broadway veterans, both! — 2021's Single All the Way is an excellent romantic comedy for the holidays. It's funny, it's charming, and it's got the right amount of true human emotion to make this a new feel-good Christmas classic. Oh, and the absolutely stacked cast (which includes Jennifer Coolidge, Kathy Najimy, and Luke Macfarlane) doesn’t hurt! — K.G.

How to watch: Single All the Way is now streaming on Netflix.

9. Falling for Christmas Credit: Scott Everett White / Netflix

What is a "good movie," really? Does it need a coherent plot, believable stakes, and characters that act like human beings? Sure. So, by that metric, Falling for Christmas is not a good movie. And yet, it is the movie that ushered in the Lindsay Lohan renaissance of the 2020s, and for that, we are extremely grateful! Yes, it's silly — but it's the best kind of silly, mindless fluff. 

Lohan is wooden but charming as Sierra Belmont, a wealthy, disconnected heiress about to get engaged to her flighty, absurd influencer BF Tad (George Young). But then she falls off a mountain (seriously) and wakes up in the care of down-to-earth widowed dad Jake (Chord Overstreet), with no memory of what happened! You heard that correctly; this is not a drill! It's a Christmas-amnesia-rom-com, people!!!! — K.G.

How to watch: Falling for Christmas is now streaming on Netflix.

8. The Princess Switch Credit: Netflix

In the same fictional Christmas-verse as Netflix's A Christmas Prince, Stacy (Vanessa Hudgens) is an American chef on her way to the made-up European country of Belgravia for a baking competition. There she runs into Lady Margaret Delacourt (also Hudgens), future wife of Belgravia's crown prince, who is looking for a break from the country's rabid media. Her solution? That she and Stacy switch places, of course! What could go wrong? Surely, no one will notice an American nobody pretending to be a duchess! Surely, these two women won't definitely fall in love with the men in each other's lives... right? Right?! 

Zany, bubbly, and the opposite of subtle, The Princess Switch — along with sequels The Princess Switch: Switched Again and The Princess Switch 3: Romancing the Star — is a perfect watch for when you're in the mood for some sugary-sweet nonsense. — K.G.

How to watch: The Princess Switch is now streaming on Netflix.

7. A Castle for Christmas Credit: Netflix

Brooke Shields is Sophie, an American novelist looking to escape the PR frenzy around her newest book. She absconds to a small town in Scotland where her grandfather once lived, and after feeling a connection to the place, promptly tries to buy the rundown castle. (Sure!) The catch? Current owner Myles (Cary Elwes) refuses to sell unless Sophie can survive both of them living there together for 90 days. It's like an only-one-bed situation, but with an entire castle. Myles hopes he can scare Sophie off… but as time goes on, does he still want her to go?

So many Christmas romantic comedies feature stiff acting, but Shields and Elwes both abound with energy and charisma. A Castle for Christmas is a no-brainer holiday watch: It's cheerful, it's charming, and you're genuinely rooting for these two to get together! — K.G.

How to watch: A Castle for Christmas is now streaming on Netflix.

6. The Knight Before Christmas Credit: Brooke Palmer / Netflix

The Knight Before Christmas has all your favorite holiday movie tropes: a precocious little girl, a woman who no longer believes in love, and the man who is going to change her mind. Except the man in question here is Sir Cole (Josh Whitehouse), a medieval knight who has been transported to the present and doesn't understand a thing about this new world. Good thing the woman, Brooke (Vanessa Hudgens, Netflix Christmas queen!), is there to help him figure it all out. The Knight Before Christmas is just as cheesy as you think it is, but that doesn't mean it's not a fun watch! It’s like a Christmas-y Kate & Leopold, but with less gravitas and more hijinks. — K.G.

How to watch: The Knight Before Christmas is now streaming on Netflix.

5. Our Little Secret Credit: Bob Mahoney / Netflix

Lindsay Lohan brings her winsome energy to Our Little Secret, a cute comedy about past loves, big secrets, and the absolute awkwardness of meeting your partner's family for the first time. Once childhood sweethearts, Avery (Lohan) and Logan (Ian Harding) were everything to each other. After a surprise holiday wedding proposal goes badly, they lose touch for 10 years, only to turn up at the same family gathering — because they're dating siblings! With shades of Anyone but You, Our Little Secret has the pair hiding their past relationship to keep things chill and avoid the ire of an intense mother hen (Kristin Chenoweth). Amid holiday hijinks and incredible social pressure, will these old flames re-ignite like a Yule log? — K.P.

How to watch: Our Little Secret is now streaming on Netflix.

4. The Merry Gentlemen Credit: Katrina Marcinowski / Netflix

The Full Monty meets holiday rom-com in The Merry Gentleman. When her big-city dreams take a big hit, professional dancer Ashley (Britt Robertson) finds fresh purpose in her small hometown. There, her parents' performance venue, The Rhythm Room, is at risk of closing. But perhaps one hit show could save the theater? More specifically, an all-male dance review combining Christmas music and strapping hunks ready to strip down from their gay apparel for a whooping audience. While counting down to a Christmas that'll make or break her family, Ashley gets her groove back, not only by throwing herself into this creative Christmas production but also by falling for a buff — and a bit gruff — handyman (Chad Michael Murray). Heads up: The Merry Gentleman is nowhere near as flashy or smoking hot as Magic Mike. But if you're seeking to get a bit heated in these chilly months, it'll go down like a cup of cocoa. — K.P.

How to watch: The Merry Gentlemen is now streaming on Netflix.

3. That Christmas Credit: Netflix

There are plenty of Santa stories to choose from each winter. (Heck, there are several on this list!) But only one has a script co-written by Love, Actually's Richard Curtis — and a Father Christmas voiced by Succession's Brian Cox! Based on Curtis' adorable children's book trilogy, That Christmas is an animated adventure that features a debonair Santa Claus and a wise-cracking reindeer sidekick, as well as a mighty blizzard that pitches parents into peril, leaving their kids to band together to save the holiday. And hey, maybe they'll get a little help from a certain icon of gift-giving and goodwill. — K.P.

How to watch: That Christmas is now streaming on Netflix.

2. Hot Frosty Credit: Petr Maur / Netflix

What if Frosty was a hunk? That's the premise of this cheeky holiday rom-com that's a mix of festive, funny, and mildly horny. Mean Girls Lacey Chabert and Schitt's Creek's Dustin Milligan star in this tale of Girl Meets Snowman. She's a small-town diner owner whose heartbreak doesn't stop her from giving plenty of warmth and joy to others. He is a buff snowman, carved — complete with nipples and rippling abs! — for a winter festival display. But a holiday wish brings him to life, turning him into a flesh-and-blood himbo/Golden Retriever boyfriend... who melts if he gets too hot. (Hm. Well, that's less than ideal.) Will love find a way? And did screenwriter Russell Hainline mean to reference Terminator with a nude intro that leads into a festive crime spree?

If you're intrigued, you'll treasure Hot Frosty. — K.P.

How to watch: Hot Frosty is now streaming on Netflix.

1. Meet Me Next Christmas Credit: Marni Grossman / Netflix

A festive tale of fate, love, and music frolics forth in Meet Me Next Christmas. Christina Milian stars as Layla, a gorgeous and generous "miracle worker" whose not-for-profit work secures scholarships for students to attend HBCUs. She deserves a holiday that's out of the movies... And it will be.

Screenwriters Molly Haldeman and Camilla Rubis cleverly pluck elements from The Holiday, Serendipity, and Sleepless in Seattle to create an NYC-set fairy tale about taking a chance on a new romance. After a meet-cute with a dashing man (Kofi Siriboe) in an airport lounge, lovelorn Layla becomes convinced that tickets to see Pentatonix at a sold-out Christmas Eve show will be all she needs to make a love connection that will last. To get this hot ticket, she'll need the help of a committed (and cute) broker (Devale Ellis), who will be her guide through the decadent halls, quirky characters, and oddball antics that is Christmas in New York City. — K.P.

How to watch: Meet Me Next Christmas is now streaming on Netflix.

UPDATE: Dec. 16, 2025, 3:30 p.m. EST This list was originally written by Alison Foreman and published on Dec. 21, 2020. It has been updated by Kristy Puchko and Kristina Grosspietsch to reflect current Netflix offerings.

Today's Connections: Sports Edition will be easier if you know team names.

As we've shared in previous hints stories, this is a version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

Like the original Connections, the game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier — so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for the latest Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections: Sports Edition?

The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

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Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake — players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

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Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. Here's a hint for today's Connections: Sports Edition categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

• Yellow: Play time

• Green: Ball movement

• Blue: Legends

• Purple: Missing something

Here are today's Connections: Sports Edition categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow: Section of a game

• Green: Soccer passes

• Blue: Hall of Fame Orioles

• Purple: NFL starting QBs, minus their first letter

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections: Sports Edition #455 is...

What is the answer to Connections: Sports Edition today?

• Section of a game - HALF, INNING, PERIOD, QUARTER

• Soccer passes - BACKHEEL, CHIP, CROSS, GIVE-AND-GO

• Hall of Fame Orioles - MURRAY, PALMER, RIPKEN, WEAVER

• NFL starting QBs, minus their first letter - ARNOLD, ART, AYE, OFF

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new sports Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to today's Connections.

Welcome to your guide to Pips, the latest game in the New York Times catalogue.

Released in August 2025, the Pips puts a unique spin on dominoes, creating a fun single-player experience that could become your next daily gaming habit.

Currently, if you're stuck, the game only offers to reveal the entire puzzle, forcing you to move onto the next difficulty level and start over. However, we have you covered! Below are piecemeal answers that will serve as hints so that you can find your way through each difficulty level.

How to play Pips

If you've ever played dominoes, you'll have a passing familiarity for how Pips is played. As we've shared in our previous hints stories for Pips, the tiles, like dominoes, are placed vertically or horizontally and connect with each other. The main difference between a traditional game of dominoes and Pips is the color-coded conditions you have to address. The touching tiles don't necessarily have to match.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for December 22, 2025

The conditions you have to meet are specific to the color-coded spaces. For example, if it provides a single number, every side of a tile in that space must add up to the number provided. It is possible – and common – for only half a tile to be within a color-coded space.

Here are common examples you'll run into across the difficulty levels:

• Number: All the pips in this space must add up to the number.

• Equal: Every domino half in this space must be the same number of pips.

• Not Equal: Every domino half in this space must have a completely different number of pips.

• Less than: Every domino half in this space must add up to less than the number.

• Greater than: Every domino half in this space must add up to more than the number.

If an area does not have any color coding, it means there are no conditions on the portions of dominoes within those spaces.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for December 22, 2025 Easy difficulty hints, answers for Dec. 22 Pips

Number (6): Everything in this space must add up to 6. The answer is 2-6, placed horizontally; 0-6, placed vertically.

Number (7): Everything in this space must add up to 7. The answer is 0-6, placed vertically; 1-6, placed vertically.

Number (4): Everything in this space must add up to 4. The answer is 4-5, placed horizontally.

Number (1): Everything in this space must add up to 1. The answer is 1-2, placed horizontally.

Greater Than (1): Everything in this space must be greater than 1. The answer is 1-6, placed vertically.

Medium difficulty hints, answers for Dec. 22 Pips

Greater Than (5): Everything in this space must be greater than 5. The answer is 6-4, placed horizontally.

Not Equal: Everything in this space must be different. The answer is 6-4, placed horizontally; 0-5, placed horizontally; 3-1, placed horizontally; 2-4, placed horizontally; 1-5, placed horizontally.

Greater Than (3): Everything in this space must be greater than 3. The answer is 0-5, placed horizontally.

Number (4): Everything in this space must add up to 4. The answer is 4-3, placed vertically.

Equal (3): Everything in this space must be equal to 3. The answer is 4-3, placed vertically; 3-1, placed horizontally.

Number (9): Everything in this space must add up to 9. The answer is 5-5, placed horizontally; 2-4, placed horizontally.

Greater Than (4): Everything in this space must be greater than 4. The answer is 5-5, placed horizontally.

Number (1): Everything in this space must add up to 1. The answer is 1-5, placed horizontally.

Hard difficulty hints, answers for Dec. 22 Pips

Number (0): Everything in this space must add up to 0. The answer is 0-1, placed horizontally.

Less Than (4): Everything in this space must be less than 4. The answer is 0-1, placed horizontally.

Number (4): Everything in this space must add up to 4. The answer is 4-2, placed vertically.

Number (0): Everything in this yellow space must add up to 0. The answer is 0-5, placed vertically.

Number (12): Everything in this space must add up to 12. The answer is 6-0, placed horizontally; 6-1, placed vertically.

Number (0): Everything in this green space must add up to 0. The answer is 6-0, placed horizontally.

Less Than (4): Everything in this space must be less than 4. The answer is 3-1, placed vertically.

Equal (2): Everything in this red space must be equal to 2. The answer is 4-2, placed vertically; 2-2, placed vertically; 0-2, placed horizontally.

Greater Than (8): Everything in this space must be greater than 8. The answer is 0-5, placed vertically; 5-6, placed vertically.

Number (4): Everything in this space must add up to 4. The answer is 6-1, placed vertically; 3-1, placed vertically; 1-1, placed horizontally.

Number (30): Everything in this space must add up to 30. The answer is 5-6, placed vertically; 6-6, placed horizontally; 6-2, placed horizontally; 3-6, placed horizontally.

Number (4): Everything in this red space must add up to 4. The answer is 6-2, placed horizontally; 2-5, placed horizontally.

Equal (3): Everything in this space must be equal to 3. The answer is 3-3, placed horizontally; 3-6, placed horizontally.

Greater Than (4): Everything in this space must be greater than 4. The answer is 2-5, placed horizontally.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: How to play Pips, the newest NYT game

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Monday, Dec. 22, 2025:

AcrossGreeting from Kermit the Frog

• The answer is HiHo.

Apt name for a baby born around Christmas

• The answer is Carol.

Body part that might be sprained or rolled

• The answer is Ankle.

Apt name for a baby born around Christmas

• The answer is Noel.

Unlikely to leave a mess

• The answer is Tidy.

DownVietnam's capital city

• The answer is Hanoi.

Irritated

• The answer is Irked.

Apt name for a baby born around Christmas

• The answer is Holly.

Cry at a bullfight

• The answer is Ole.

"I ___ even!" (modern complaint)

• The answer is Whap.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to the latest Mini Crossword.

The Indie Game Awards has stripped Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 of both its Game of the Year and Debut Game awards, citing the roleplaying game's use of generative AI.

Run by Six One Indie, the annual Indie Game Awards aims to highlight excellence in independent video game development. Titles are eligible for consideration in the Indie Game Awards if their developers are outside the "traditional publisher system," and were not owned or financially controlled by a major corporation. Said games also must not have used any generative AI in their development process, which would make them "strictly ineligible for nomination." 

Unfortunately, it appears that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's developer Sandfall Interactive did indeed use generative AI, disqualifying them from the Indie Game Awards.

SEE ALSO: 'Clair Obscur: Expedition 33' review: Final Fantasy vibes and emotional maturity

"The Indie Game Awards have a hard stance on the use of gen AI throughout the nomination process and during the ceremony itself," the Indie Game Awards wrote, announcing its decision over the weekend. "When it was submitted for consideration, a representative of Sandfall Interactive agreed that no gen AI was used in the development of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.

"In light of Sandfall Interactive confirming the use of gen AI art in production on the day of the Indie Game Awards 2025 premiere, this does disqualify Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 from its nomination. While the assets in question were patched out and it is a wonderful game, it does go against the regulations we have in place."

The Indie Game Awards' Game of the Year and Debut Game will now be awarded to the second-highest scoring titles in each respective category. As such, Debut Game goes to à la mode games' survival horror Sorry We’re Closed, while the Indie Game Awards' Game of the Year 2025 is Dogubomb's puzzle adventure game Blue Prince.

The IGAs Nomination Committee is officially retracting Debut Game and Game of the Year, awarding both categories to new recipients. Additionally, we are retracting one of the Indie Vanguard recipients. Full details can be found in our FAQ under Game Eligibility: www.indiegameawards.gg/faq

[image or embed]

— The Indie Game Awards (@indiegameawards.gg) December 21, 2025 at 5:45 AM

Sandfall Interactive had previously disclosed its use of AI in a July interview with Spanish newspaper El País, though did not explicitly confirm that the tools they used were generative in nature. At the time, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's producer François Meurisse merely stated that they had used "some AI" in the game's production.

In a later update to El País' article, Sandfall Interactive claimed that no generative AI assets currently remain in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. However, it confirmed that generative AI was used to create placeholder textures during development, not all of which were removed prior to release due to oversights in the quality assurance process. Sandfall Interactive states that such AI-generated textures were replaced within five days of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's launch, and were never intended to be included in the final game.

Players did indeed spot AI-generated textures in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 upon its April 24 release, quickly calling out suspicious in-game posters on social media. Less than a week later, patch notes for a hotfix noted that the developers had "replaced a placeholder texture with the correct visual asset."

Even so, the Indie Game Awards were apparently unaware of these events, as it did not discover Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's AI use until Dec. 18, the day the winners were announced.

Reaction to Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's disqualification from the Indie Game Awards has been mixed. While some fans appreciate the awards' strict stance against generative AI, others feel that Sandfall Interactive's use of the technology to create a few placeholder poster assets was relatively minor and should be permissible in this case. Still, the Indie Game Awards' criteria requires that no generative AI be used at all, regardless of the extent of such use.

"Thank you for standing up and speaking out for a more ethical games industry," wrote @erin-hallow on Bluesky. "In a time where authentic human creativity is under threat and big players perpetuate that issue, it means a lot to see an awards show that truly cares about the authenticity of the games it showcases."

"Considering a single placeholder asset made it into the final version, entirely by mistake, it seems a bit silly but rules are rules I guess," Redditor u/Caridor wrote on the r/expedition33 subreddit. (Note: Technically at least two placeholder assets were spotted, but their sentiment stands.)

While Sandfall Interactive hasn't directly commented on the retraction of its Indie Game Awards at time of writing, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 still has plenty of other wins to keep it warm. The highly lauded French game swept the 2025 Game Awards earlier this month, taking home Game of the Year as well as eight other trophies. It also took six wins at the Golden Joystick awards, including Ultimate Game of the Year.

Use of generative AI in game development is a contentious issue. Though some see it as a tool to increase efficiency, many others are concerned that generative AI will replace real artists, eliminating jobs from an already struggling industry while flooding the market with low-quality, soulless AI slop.

If you’ve kept up with recent technology news, you may have noticed that the world’s most popular operating system has been in the headlines for all the wrong reasons. Users are now required to log in with a cloud account, the use of AI is basically a requirement, surveillance data is sent off to unknown servers, and users are forced to accept ever-changing license agreements that invade privacy. Why do we put up with this?

If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.

An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.

If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle: Everything you need to know to find the answers Hurdle Word 1 hint

To hover.

SEE ALSO: Apple’s new M3 MacBook Air is $300 off at Amazon. And yes, I’m tempted. Hurdle Word 1 answer

FLOAT

Hurdle Word 2 hint

To break

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for December 22, 2025 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

BURNT

Hurdle Word 3 hint

Two times.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for December 22 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for December 22, 2025 Hurdle Word 3 answer

TWICE

Hurdle Word 4 hint

To raise.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for December 22 Hurdle Word 4 answer

HOIST

Final Hurdle hint

Shiny and solid.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answer

METAL

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

The Moon is coming back from complete darkness, but it's still showing just a hint of light. Over the next few nights, it will get bigger and brighter, and soon we'll be able to spot craters, mares, and other interesting features on its surface.

What is today’s moon phase?

As of Monday, Dec. 22, the moon phase is Waxing Crescent. According to NASA's Daily Moon Observation, 6% of the moon will be lit up tonight. So little of the Moon is lit up that nothing on its surface is visible tonight. Check back again tomorrow.

When is the next full moon?

The next full moon will be on Jan. 3. The last full moon was on Dec. 4.

What are moon phases?

According to NASA, the Moon takes around 29.5 days to complete one full cycle. This is known as the lunar cycle. Throughout this time, it passes through a series of phases as it orbits Earth. Although the same side of the Moon always faces us, the amount of sunlight reflecting off its surface changes, which is why it can appear fully illuminated, partly lit, or completely invisible at different points in the cycle. This process is divided into eight main lunar phases:

New Moon - The moon is between Earth and the sun, so the side we see is dark (in other words, it's invisible to the eye).

Waxing Crescent - A small sliver of light appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).

First Quarter - Half of the moon is lit on the right side. It looks like a half-moon.

Waxing Gibbous - More than half is lit up, but it’s not quite full yet.

Full Moon - The whole face of the moon is illuminated and fully visible.

Waning Gibbous - The moon starts losing light on the right side. (Northern Hemisphere)

Third Quarter (or Last Quarter) - Another half-moon, but now the left side is lit.

Waning Crescent - A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before going dark again.

TL;DR: Live stream Mali vs. Zambia in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations for free on Channel 4. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Africa Cup of Nations is up and running. Morocco and Comoros kicked things off, but now it's time for the other Group A teams to take each other on. Mali face Zambia in a fascinating matchup. Fans will be expecting Morocco to top this group, so every point is going to be vital in the battle to progress to the knockout rounds.

If you want to watch Mali vs. Zambia in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Mali vs. Zambia?

Mali vs. Zambia in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations kicks off at 9 a.m. ET on Dec. 22. This fixture takes place at the Mohammed V Stadium.

How to watch Mali vs. Zambia for free

Mali vs. Zambia in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is available to live stream for free on Channel 4.

Channel 4 is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can unblock Channel 4 to stream AFCON for free from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Mali vs. Zambia for free by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

4. Visit Channel 4

5. Watch Mali vs. Zambia for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can access free live streams of AFCON without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream Mali vs. Zambia (plus more 2025 Africa Cup of Nations fixtures) before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for Channel 4?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on Channel 4, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including the UK

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).

Watch Mali vs. Zambia in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Upgrade an old PC with this Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows license, on sale now for just $34.97 (reg. $219.99).

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows: Lifetime License $34.97
$219.99 Save $185.02   Get Deal

The holiday season isn’t a great time to need a new laptop. If you have an older device, getting a Microsoft Office license for it is the next best thing. It gives you some essential tools that can give your productivity a much-needed boost during this busy time of the year.

Right now, you can refresh your computer with this Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows license for only $34.97 (reg. $219.99).

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If you’ve been living without Microsoft Office, it’s time to make life a little easier. Whether you counted on some of the classic ones to get you through school or you’re totally new to these tools, these apps can help you tackle professional and personal tasks, and this license gives you eight of them.

For just $5 each, you can create documents in Word, build a budget in Excel, manage your emails in Outlook, and design eye-catching presentations in PowerPoint. Teams can keep you connected to coworkers, Access helps you manage large databases, OneNote organizes your digital notes, and Publisher can help you design professional documents.

Don’t worry about this edition hailing from 2021; all the apps have been redesigned. They’re ready to improve your daily workflow, whether you’re a data analyst or designer. Purchases come with an instant delivery and download, so you can install them directly on your device without the need for a cloud connection.

Note: Make sure your device is running Windows 10 or 11 before you purchase. Get a Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows license for only $34.97 (reg. $219.99).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

When it comes to tackling the inevitable spills and messes of modern life, the convenience and power of a wet/dry vacuum cleaner are unparalleled. This category has completely revolutionised the way we approach general cleaning, allowing users to handle everything from dust to thick liquids in one go. Rendering the traditional mop obsolete, one machine that can clean up any household accident is the way of the future. So, if you are searching for a high-performance cleaning tool, a hybrid vacuum should be at the top of your list. And when it comes to leading the pack with next-generation cleaning technology, you can’t go past the Eureka Floorshine 880.

Opens in a new window Credit: Eureka Eureka FloorShine 880 AU$799 at Amazon Australia
AU$1,099 Save AU$300   Get Deal Key SpecsIndustry-Exclusive Odour Removal

The feature that sets the Floorshine 880 apart is its Industry-Exclusive Odour Removal Technology. Anyone who has used a hybrid vacuum before, knows the frustrating and unpleasant issue of the lingering odour from the dirty-water tank. Because these machines are designed to tackle anything, at any viscosity, that life throws at it, that tank can get smelly – fast! And with fast-paced modern life, cleaning the machine after every use is just not always feasible. There is nothing worse than reaching for your wet-dry vac to tackle a mess and realise the machine itself needs cleaning, or where you house your machine has a lingering smell.

Recognising the issues, Eureka engineered a first-of-its-kind solution for modern life. The Floorshine 880 goes beyond standard cleaning by incorporating a built-in deodouriser that actively targets and neutralises odours at the source, ensuring the machine itself stays fresh.

Innovative Machine Design for Effortless Cleaning

Beyond solving the odour problem, the Eureka Floorshine 880 is designed to make cleaning effortless. Unlike most upright wet-dry vacs on the market, the Floorshine 880 boasts an impressive 180-degree lie-flat capability. Ensuring you can tackle dirt in all those hard-to-reach places, users no longer have to change machines or strain their backs as the unit provides effortless access to clean under low-lying furniture, beds and right spaces.

Complementing this flexibility is the Anti-Tangle 4.0 brush-roller design. Pet owners, this one is for you. Featuring a new stainless steel design, 104 comb teeth, this newly designed brush roll ensures seamless continuous cleaning performance without the constant need for manual hair removal and maintenance.

Triple-Side Edge Cleaning

The Eureka Floorshine 880 is the ultimate all-in-one cleaning tool, eliminating the need for secondary cleaning items. While traditional wet/dry vacuums often struggle to clean flush against baseboards and into corners, the Floorshine 880 triple-side edge cleaning removes the hassle of bending down on your hands and knees to scrub corners manually.

This innovative system ensures the brush roller actively cleans along all three edges of the unit, left, right, and front, allowing the machine to tackle dirt right up against walls and into tight spots where dirt and debris commonly accumulate. Providing a true edge-to-edge clean.

Smart DualDrive for Effortless Movement

The core of the Floorshine 880’s convenience stems from its Smart DualDrive for effortless movement. No longer do you have to physically lug a machine around your home. The powerful Smart DualDrive offers forward and reverse assistance, effectively turning the weight of the machine into an advantage and making manoeuvring across large spaces feel almost self-propelled.

Smart Dirt Detection

This easy movement is paired with Smart Dirt Detection, as the machine glides along your floor, the machine will automatically sense the level of debris and stains, adjusting water flow and suction required to tackle the mess. This means you no longer have to fiddle with buttons as you move from carpet to tiles or adjust settings when you roll over spillages. The machine does it all for you. Not only does this save you time, but it also always ensures optimal resource use, so you don't waste water or battery life on light messes, while still delivering maximum scrubbing power exactly where you need it. All in real-time. Paired with the automatic detergent dispenser, you never have to guess how much cleaning fluid you need – and you only need to top up every 45 days. 

Finally, its innovative design is rounded out by Triple-Side Edge Cleaning, which ensures that tight corners and baseboards are just as clean as the open floor, guaranteeing that no spot is missed.

One-Step Self-Cleaning & Hot-Air Drying

The Floorshine 880's commitment to low-effort cleaning doesn't end when the floors are spotless, it extends to the machine's maintenance itself.

Alongside the odour removing technology, after every use, the unit simplifies cleanup with a comprehensive One-Step Self-Cleaning and Hot-Air Drying system.

Instead of dismantling and hand-washing dirty components, you simply place the unit on its charging base, hit the pedal with your foot and let the machine do the heavy lifting. Automatically deep-cleaning the brush roller and internal tubing, the machine flushes out dirt and debris.

Crucially, the system then uses hot air to thoroughly dry the brush roller. This hot-air drying function not only prevents lingering moisture but also works in conjunction with the industry-exclusive odour reducing technology to stop the growth of mildew and bacteria. This final step guarantees that the Floorshine 880 is completely clean, fresh, and ready for the next use.

Is this vacuum right for me?

The Eureka Floorshine 880 is certainly a top contender for modern, multi textile households. It’s bringing truly impressive industry-leading features into a consumer-friendly package.

Busy mums will particularly like the self-cleaning function and the leading technology in odour reduction. The ability to effortlessly mop up your toddlers' spilt yoghurt in the kitchen and glide over the rug to suck up dog hair in one swoop is the ultimate cleaning hack. 

How Much Does it Cost?

The Eureka Floorshine 880 retails at A$1,099, but right now (between December 24 – December 30) you can pick up the wet/dry vacuum discounted on Amazon, 27% off down to just $799. See it here.

For most people, the story of graphics cards starts with Nvidia and AMD. The reality is quite different.

When it comes to anime, your watch list will always be well-fed. There's a show and trope out there for all your moods and curiosities, whether you're into fast-paced action and adventure or mellow stories that focus on romance or friendship.

Grocery delivery service Instacart will pay $60 million in consumer refunds to settle a lawsuit over unlawful tactics, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) shared on Thursday.

The FTC lawsuit claimed that Instacart engaged in several deceptive methods, including:

• Falsely advertising "free delivery" to customers' first order when they actually needed to pay a service fee as much as 15 percent

• Falsely advertising a "100 percent satisfaction guarantee," implying full refunds that Instacart didn't offer

• Failing to disclose the terms of Instacart+ membership enrollment, such as that consumers would be charged at the end of their free trials

SEE ALSO: You can now buy groceries in ChatGPT

"Instacart misled consumers by advertising free delivery services — and then charging consumers to have groceries delivered — and failing to disclose to consumers that signed up for a free trial that they would be automatically enrolled into its subscription program," director of the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection, Christopher Mufarrige, stated in the FTC's press release. "The FTC is focused on monitoring online delivery services to ensure that competitors are transparently competing on price and delivery terms."

On Thursday, Instacart released its own press release concerning the FTC lawsuit. In it, the company states that although it reached this settlement, "We flatly deny any allegations of wrongdoing by the agency, and we believe the foundation of the FTC's inquiry was fundamentally flawed. And to avoid potential confusion, we want to clarify that, as of this settlement announcement, we are not aware of any other pending FTC investigations. We stand firmly behind the integrity, transparency, and value of our programs."

Instacart shared that:

• It clearly displays all fees before checkout, and is clear on what "$0 delivery" means

• The Instacart+ membership complies with regulatory standards and is one of the most "clear, straightforward, affordability-focused, ad consumer-friendly subscription programs on the market"

• It's easy to try and cancel the Instacart+ membership

In addition to the $60 million settlement, Instacart agreed to stop the practices alleged in the FTC's lawsuit, including misrepresenting delivery costs. The company must also clearly outline its subscription terms and obtain express consent for transactions of its subscriptions.

If you're trying to get into the terminal app on your Ubuntu computer, why not start with some lighthearted fun? There are some command line Easter eggs that won't do anything but entertain you, and I've gathered some of the best.

Netflix is bidding farewell to a popular TV series in the new year, meaning subscribers don't have much time to watch it. You will have to take advantage of the show's finite availability on the streaming platform. So, whether it's to start the series for the first time or to rewatch favorite episodes, the clock is running out on access to Lost via Netflix.

Waymo suspended service of its driverless robotaxis in San Francisco during a blackout that hit many of the city's residents on Saturday night.

Around a third of San Francisco residents were without power for hours due to a fire at a Pacific Gas and Electric substation, The San Francisco Standard reported. During the blackout, people noticed that Waymo vehicles appeared to be blocking intersections and causing traffic congestion. Waymo announced that evening that it had suspended service in the city due to the power outages, Mission Local reported.

SEE ALSO: Los Angeles woman discovers man hiding in Waymo trunk

San Franciscians shared photos and videos on X:

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Autonomous Waymo vehicles are designed to treat non-functional signals as four-way stops, but the scale of the blackout led to instances of cars stalling for longer than usual to confirm the state of affected intersections, according to Waymo. The majority of active trips were successfully completed before the cars pulled over or returned to depots.

The company didn't share with Mashable what percentage of the self-driving fleet was impacted, or why the driverless vehicles stopped working during the blackout.

Waymo's spokesperson, Suzanne Philion, told Mashable in an emailed statement that, "We have temporarily suspended our ride-hailing services in the San Francisco Bay Area due to the widespread power outage. Our teams are working diligently and in close coordination with city officials, and we are hopeful to bring our services back online soon."

While power began to be restored around 9:10 p.m. last night, some outages remain early Sunday morning according to PG&E's map.

Around 4 p.m. PT Sunday, a Waymo spokesperson updated Mashable and stated, "We are resuming ride-hailing service in the San Francisco Bay Area. Yesterday's power outage was a widespread event that caused gridlock across San Francisco, with non-functioning traffic signals and transit disruptions. While the failure of the utility infrastructure was significant, we are committed to ensuring our technology adjusts to traffic flow during such events."

"Throughout the outage, we closely coordinated with San Francisco city officials," the spokesperson continued. "We are focused on rapidly integrating the lessons learned from this event, and are committed to earning and maintaining the trust of the communities we serve every day."

This is the latest in a recent series of Waymo incidents. Just this month, a viral video showed a driverless Waymo seemingly driving straight into traffic, a Los Angeles woman discovered a stranger in the trunk of her Waymo, and Waymo issued a software recall following reports of the cars illegally passing school buses in Austin.

Back in November, Waymo was hit with a wave of criticism in San Francisco after an autonomous car struck a beloved neighborhood cat.

UPDATE: Dec. 22, 2025, 9:26 a.m. EST This article has been updated with further information and an updated statement from Waymo.

The year is drawing to an end, which means Apple's 2025 App Store Awards have recognized the best apps for all your Apple devices. The contenders for iPhone's App of the Year were strong, but I was not surprised at which app emerged as the winner.