FAQ
Choosing Your Seasonal Viewing
The questions readers ask us most often each December, answered plainly.
What counts as a Christmas film?
We count any film in which the Christmas season shapes the story, mood or stakes, even if the holiday is only the backdrop. That includes The Apartment and Die Hard, as well as films about Christmas itself, like Miracle on 34th Street.
What is the best Christmas film for adults?
Our top pick is The Apartment (1960). For something recent, The Holdovers (2023) is our lead recommendation. Both reward attention and both are honest about loneliness.
Is Die Hard a Christmas film?
Yes. It is set at a Christmas Eve office party and its story turns on a separated couple's reunion. The debate is fun; the answer is settled.
Which Christmas films are not suitable for children?
Eyes Wide Shut, Violent Night, Die Hard, Silent Night and Tokyo Godfathers are among those best kept for adults. Ratings differ by country, so always check the classification for your region before a mixed-age evening.
Which version of Fanny and Alexander should I watch?
The 188-minute theatrical cut works for a single, long evening. The 312-minute television version is richer and gives the Christmas sequence more room; we suggest splitting it over two nights.
What is the difference between "persuasive" and "nostalgic" in your reviews?
Persuasive means we believe the film would win over an adult seeing it for the first time. Nostalgic means its pleasures depend largely on memory and ritual. We love many nostalgic films; we simply try not to oversell them.
Where can I stream these films?
Availability varies by country and changes frequently, sometimes within a single December. We do not list platforms that may go out of date; check a current streaming guide for your region.
Are your reviews sponsored?
No. We are independent and not affiliated with any studio, distributor or streaming service. Nobody pays for placement in our rankings.
Can I suggest a film?
Please do. Write to the Winter Desk; we read every letter and many of our honourable mentions began as reader suggestions.