The holiday season has a magical way of transforming certain films into Christmas classics, even if they don’t exactly fit the traditional mold. Sure, we all know It’s a Wonderful Life or A Christmas Carol, but what about those films that simply take place during Christmas and have become beloved seasonal favorites over time? Let’s dive into some of the great, unexpected holiday classics that we can’t help but return to every December.

Die Hard (1988)
The eternal debate: Is Die Hard a Christmas movie? According to legions of fans, the answer is a resounding yes! This action-packed thriller starring Bruce Willis as NYPD cop John McClane unfolds on Christmas Eve, with McClane battling terrorists in a Los Angeles high-rise. Sure, it’s not about the spirit of giving, but with its festive setting, Christmas music, and memorable quips ("Now I have a machine gun. Ho-ho-ho.”), Die Hard is a holiday staple for those who crave something edgier with their yuletide cheer.

Gremlins (1984)
If you want to add a little horror-comedy to your Christmas movie marathon, Gremlins is a perfect pick. Set in a small town during Christmas, this film tells the story of a young man who receives an adorable, mysterious creature called Gizmo as a pet. But when Gizmo’s mischievous offspring wreak havoc on the town, the holiday season takes a wild turn. With Christmas carols, lights, and a snowy setting, Gremlins is a quirky, sometimes dark holiday treat that blends laughs with scares.

Love Actually (2003)
One of the most beloved modern Christmas movies, Love Actually follows multiple intertwining stories of love, heartbreak, and connection, all set during the festive lead-up to Christmas. With an all-star cast including Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, Keira Knightley, and Liam Neeson, the film captures both the joy and melancholy of the holiday season. Whether it’s Grant dancing to “Jump (For My Love)” or the bittersweet moments between Emma Thompson and Alan Rickman’s characters, Love Actually has earned its place as a go-to holiday romance.

Batman Returns (1992)
Tim Burton’s dark, gothic take on Gotham City makes an unexpected holiday backdrop in Batman Returns. Set during the Christmas season, with its snow-covered streets, giant trees, and festive decorations, this superhero film adds a moody twist to holiday films. The action, combined with standout performances by Michael Keaton, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Danny DeVito, makes it a unique alternative to the usual holiday fare. After all, nothing says Christmas quite like a superhero saving the day under the mistletoe.

Edward Scissorhands (1990)
Tim Burton’s whimsical fantasy Edward Scissorhands is set against a suburban Christmas backdrop, combining holiday cheer with themes of love and acceptance. The film tells the story of Edward, an artificial man with scissors for hands, who struggles to fit into society. With its enchanting visuals, a hauntingly beautiful score, and a memorable Christmas scene that captures both the magic and isolation of the season, Edward Scissorhands has become a favorite holiday film for many.

The Family Stone (2005)
A heartfelt dramedy, The Family Stone is a warm yet poignant look at the holiday season through the eyes of a close-knit but chaotic family. When Everett Stone (Dermot Mulroney) brings his uptight girlfriend Meredith (Sarah Jessica Parker) home to meet his family, tensions flare as she clashes with his free-spirited relatives. With a brilliant ensemble cast including Diane Keaton, Luke Wilson, and Rachel McAdams, the film mixes laughter with tears as the Stone family navigates their own joys and challenges over the holidays.

Black Christmas (1974)
For those who enjoy a good fright during the holiday season, the original Black Christmas delivers a chilling narrative that has become a cult classic. Set in a sorority house during Christmas break, a group of women finds themselves being stalked by a mysterious killer. While it’s a far cry from the feel-good holiday movies, its unsettling atmosphere and seasonal setting make it a unique addition to the Christmas movie lineup for fans of horror.

Meet Me in St. Louis (1944)
This classic musical features a memorable Christmas segment that has enchanted audiences for generations. Set in the early 1900s, Meet Me in St. Louis follows the lives of the Smith family as they navigate love and family dynamics leading up to the 1904 World’s Fair. The iconic song "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," sung by Judy Garland, has cemented this film’s place in the holiday canon, making it a timeless reminder of family, nostalgia, and the magic of Christmas.

The Apartment (1960)
Billy Wilder’s classic romantic comedy-drama The Apartment is set during the holiday season and explores themes of loneliness, love, and moral dilemmas. Starring Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine, it tells the story of an office worker who lets his bosses use his apartment for their extramarital affairs, only to fall for one of the mistresses. I The film’s melancholy tone, Christmas parties, and New Year’s Eve conclusion make it a poignant choice for the holiday season.

Lethal Weapon (1987)
The first Lethal Weapon introduces us to the now-iconic duo of Riggs (Mel Gibson) and Murtaugh (Danny Glover), who find themselves navigating a high-stakes case during Christmas. The film may be an action thriller, but with a backdrop of holiday decorations and a few choice Christmas tunes, Lethal Weapon has earned its status as an unconventional holiday favorite. The festive season plays nicely against the grit and intensity of the plot, making it an exciting addition to any December movie marathon.
As we dive into the heart of the holiday season, these films remind us that Christmas movies don’t always have to be about Santa Claus, reindeer, or even family gatherings. Sometimes, the backdrop of Christmas—whether it’s in the form of twinkling lights, festive chaos, or a few well-placed holiday tunes—can elevate a movie to seasonal classic status. So, if you’re looking for something a little offbeat this year, these films are worth revisiting, not just for their stories, but for the way they capture the magic of the season in unexpected ways.