Christmas movies often draw inspiration from beloved stories, blending the magic of the season with rich narratives from literature. These adaptations offer something for everyone, from laughter and magic to heartfelt lessons. Curl up with these classics to make your holiday season unforgettable!
Here’s a list of 20 Christmas movies based on books, their plots, why they captivate us, and tips for enjoying them during the holidays.
A Christmas Carol (1951)
Based On:A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
Plot: Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly man, transforms into a kind-hearted soul after being visited by three spirits on Christmas Eve.
Why It’s Special: Dickens’ tale of redemption resonates deeply, reminding us of the true spirit of Christmas.
Tip: Watch with family and discuss what each spirit represents in today’s world.
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How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Based On:How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss
Plot: The Grinch, who despises Christmas, learns the meaning of the holiday after trying to steal it from the Whos of Whoville.
Why It’s Special: Jim Carrey’s performance and the whimsical visuals bring Seuss’s classic to life.
Tip: Pair this movie with a reading of the original book for a fun family night.
RON BATZDORFF/UNIVERSAL STUDIOS
The Polar Express (2004)
Based On:The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
Plot: A boy boards a magical train to the North Pole, where he discovers the wonder of believing in Christmas.
Why It’s Special: Its dreamlike animation and themes of belief and wonder make it a modern classic.
Tip: Watch it on Christmas Eve with hot cocoa for a cozy family tradition.
Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures
Little Women (1994)
Based On:Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
Plot: The March sisters navigate love, loss, and growing up, with Christmas serving as a backdrop to key moments.
Why It’s Special: The themes of family and generosity align beautifully with the holiday season.
Tip: Reflect on the importance of togetherness while watching with loved ones.
IMDb
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Based On: A poem by Tim Burton
Plot: Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King, tries to take over Christmas with unintended consequences.
Why It’s Special: Its blend of Halloween and Christmas creates a unique holiday story.
Tip: Perfect for those who love a mix of spooky and festive vibes.
©Disney Enterprises
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
Based On:The Greatest Gift by Philip Van Doren Stern
Plot: George Bailey learns how his life has positively impacted others with the help of a guardian angel.
Why It’s Special: Its heartwarming message of gratitude and community.
Tip: Keep tissues handy—it’s an emotional ride.
Photo by Herbert Dorfman/Corbis via Getty Images
The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (2018)
Based On:The Nutcracker and the Mouse King by E.T.A. Hoffmann
Plot: Clara discovers a magical world filled with whimsical characters and battles the Mouse King.
Why It’s Special: Stunning visuals and a new twist on a classic story.
Tip: Watch after seeing a Nutcracker ballet for a deeper appreciation.
Laurie Sparham/Disney
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001)
Based On:Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
Plot: Harry discovers he’s a wizard and attends Hogwarts, where the Christmas scenes are pure magic.
Why It’s Special: The festive Hogwarts scenes exude holiday cheer.
Tip: Watch it for a touch of magic and nostalgia during the holidays.
themoviebuff
A Boy Called Christmas (2021)
Based On:A Boy Called Christmas by Matt Haig
Plot: A boy named Nikolas embarks on an adventure to find his father and discover the true meaning of Christmas.
Why It’s Special: It reimagines Santa Claus’s origin story with heart and humor.
Tip: Read the book beforehand to deepen your connection to the story.
Netflix/Studiocanal
The Man Who Invented Christmas (2017)
Based On:The Man Who Invented Christmas by Les Standiford
Plot: Charles Dickens struggles to write A Christmas Carol, blending real-life inspiration with fantasy.
Why It’s Special: A creative exploration of how Dickens’s masterpiece came to life.
Tip: Pair with a viewing of A Christmas Carol for a double feature.
IMDb
Prancer (1989)
Based On: A short story by Greg Taylor
Plot: A young girl discovers a reindeer she believes is Santa’s Prancer and works to nurse him back to health.
Why It’s Special: Its charm and innocence make it a delightful watch for children.
Tip: Watch with kids and discuss the magic of believing in miracles.
rottentomatoes
Christmas with the Kranks (2004)
Based On:Skipping Christmas by John Grisham
Plot: A couple plans to skip Christmas but is forced to rethink when their daughter decides to come home.
Why It’s Special: A comedic take on holiday traditions and family values.
Tip: Watch it when you need a good laugh during the holiday bustle.
IMDb
The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (2005)
Based On:The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
Plot: Four siblings enter a magical land where it’s always winter, and they help bring Christmas back.
Why It’s Special: Themes of hope and redemption are woven into a winter wonderland.
Tip: Enjoy with snow-themed snacks like marshmallows or white chocolate.
Eloise at Christmastime (2003)
Based On:Eloise at Christmastime by Kay Thompson
Plot: Eloise, a mischievous girl, spreads Christmas cheer at New York’s Plaza Hotel.
Why It’s Special: Its playful, childlike perspective on the holiday season.
Tip: Great for young viewers who love holiday mischief.
IMDb
Call Me Claus (2001)
Based On:Can This Be Christmas? by Debbie Macomber
Plot: A woman unknowingly hires the real Santa Claus to play himself at a TV station.
Why It’s Special: A unique take on believing in Santa Claus.
Tip: Watch with cocoa and cookies for a lighthearted evening.
IMDb
The Christmas Shoes (2002)
Based On:The Christmas Shoes by Donna VanLiere
Plot: A young boy tries to buy shoes for his dying mother, reminding a man of life’s true priorities.
Why It’s Special: Its poignant story tugs at the heartstrings.
Tip: Have tissues ready—it’s a tearjerker.
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Rise of the Guardians (2012)
Based On:The Guardians of Childhood by William Joyce
Plot: Legendary figures, including Santa, unite to protect the world’s children.
Why It’s Special: Combines holiday magic with an action-packed storyline.
Tip: Watch with kids for an adventurous twist on holiday tales.
Courtesy of DreamWork
Noel (2004)
Based On:Noel by Richard Paul Evans
Plot: Interwoven stories of love, redemption, and Christmas miracles.
Why It’s Special: A deeply emotional take on the holiday spirit.
Tip: Reflect on the themes of forgiveness and kindness.
slantmagazine
The Snowman (1982)
Based On:The Snowman by Raymond Briggs
Plot: A boy’s snowman comes to life, leading to a magical Christmas adventure.
Why It’s Special: Its animation and silent storytelling are enchanting.
Tip: Pair with the book for a quiet, reflective holiday moment.
IMDb
The Christmas Chronicles (2018)
Based On:The Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore (loosely inspired)
Plot: Two siblings team up with Santa to save Christmas.
Why It’s Special: Kurt Russell’s take on Santa is fun and refreshing.
Tip: Watch as a family to kick off Christmas Eve festivities.
Michael Gibson/Netflix
