The festive season descends upon us once again, bringing with it the cherished traditions of twinkling lights, warm gatherings, and, of course, the comforting glow of holiday films. While classics like It’s a Wonderful Life and A Charlie Brown Christmas hold an undeniable place in our hearts, there’s an exhilarating world of new Christmas movies waiting to be discovered across a multitude of streaming platforms and broadcast networks. This year, don’t just revisit the familiar; dive into a vibrant sleigh full of fresh narratives, heartwarming comedies, and inspiring stories designed to add an extra sparkle to your holiday viewing pleasure. From Netflix to Hallmark, Disney+ to Prime Video, the airwaves are brimming with festive treasures ready to become your new annual favorites.
Beyond the Timeless: Embracing a Diverse Holiday Watchlist
For many, the holidays mean revisiting beloved traditions, and watching classic Christmas movies is undoubtedly one of them. However, just like receiving the same present every year, sticking exclusively to the same handful of films, no matter how cherished, can lead to a touch of festive fatigue. This year, why not infuse your holiday season with a splash of novelty and excitement? The landscape of Christmas entertainment has never been richer, offering an unparalleled selection of new stories that capture the diverse spirit of the season. Expanding your holiday movie repertoire ensures your streaming schedule is as dynamic and delightful as the season itself, promising new laughs, fresh tears, and unforgettable moments that resonate with contemporary themes while still embodying the timeless spirit of Christmas. [IMG1]
We’ve meticulously curated a list of standout new Christmas-themed films and television specials available across popular platforms like Netflix, Hallmark Channel, Lifetime, Disney+, Hulu, and Prime Video. This guide is designed to help you navigate the plethora of options, ensuring your holiday viewing experience is anything but boring. Prepare to discover compelling plots, charismatic characters, and narratives that might just surprise you with their charm and originality. Let’s unwrap these festive cinematic gifts together!
Holiday Hustle: “Christmas On Duty” on Hallmark Channel
Prepare for a delightful dose of holiday rivalry turning into unexpected romance with “Christmas On Duty,” a must-see on the Hallmark Channel, with next-day streaming available on Hallmark+. The story centers on Blair, portrayed by the talented Janel Parrish, and Josh, played by Parker Young. These two have been locked in a fierce, albeit playful, competition since their intense training days at Quantico, where they both aspired to be at the top of their class. Their professional rivalry is legendary, always pushing each other to excel.
Three years post-graduation, their competitive spirits flare up once more during a lively holiday party at the base. What starts as good-natured banter quickly escalates into a rather dramatic scene, catching the attention of their superiors. As a consequence for their spirited antics, they are handed a unique form of holiday punishment: they are sentenced to work together for a full 24-hour shift on Christmas duty. Their initial plan, naturally, is to keep as much distance as possible, navigating their shared shift while avoiding any further clashes. [IMG2]
However, fate, or perhaps the magic of Christmas, has other plans. A formidable snowstorm begins to brew, threatening to disrupt Christmas celebrations for everyone stationed at the base. This unforeseen challenge compels Blair and Josh to set aside their long-standing rivalry and reluctantly join forces. As they work together against the clock, braving the elements and overcoming obstacles to save the holiday, they begin to discover that their dynamic extends far beyond mere competition. Could this forced collaboration during a magical Christmas blizzard spark a different kind of connection?
Crafting a Fictional Family: “Joy To The World” on Disney+ and Hulu
Step into a world where appearances can be deceiving with “Joy To The World,” now streaming on Disney+ and Hulu. At its heart is Joy Edwards, eloquently played by Emmanuelle Chriqui, a renowned cookbook author who has masterfully cultivated an image of an idyllic home life and a perfectly harmonious, picture-perfect family. Think of her as a modern-day Martha Stewart, whose public persona exudes domestic bliss and effortless holiday cheer. However, beneath this polished exterior, Joy’s reality is far from the flawless facade she presents to the world. Her seemingly perfect life is, in fact, an elaborate illusion.
Her carefully constructed world is threatened when a major television network decides to feature her in a special Christmas dinner broadcast, planning to film the festive meal right in her home. This golden opportunity quickly spirals into a logistical nightmare, as Joy realizes she has no actual “perfect family” to present to the cameras. Faced with the imminent exposure of her fabrication, she finds herself in a desperate predicament: she must create a fictitious family, and fast, to maintain her coveted public image. [IMG3]
To pull off this audacious charade, Joy enlists the help of her closest confidant, Max, portrayed by the charming Chad Michael Murray, to assume the role of her unsuspecting husband. As they embark on this elaborate ruse, navigating the complexities of their pretend family and the scrutiny of a television crew, unexpected sparks begin to fly. Can they convince the world of their make-believe happiness without losing themselves in the process? This delightful film explores themes of authenticity, image, and the unexpected places where true joy can be found, even amidst a carefully constructed lie.
A Journey to Self-Discovery: Tyler Perry’s “Finding Joy” on Prime Video
Immerse yourself in a heartwarming holiday romantic comedy with Tyler Perry’s “Finding Joy,” exclusively available on Prime Video. This charming film introduces us to Joy, brought to life by the brilliant Shannon Thornton. Joy is a remarkably talented yet perpetually underappreciated fashion designer based in the bustling metropolis of New York City. Despite her creative prowess, she finds herself facing a series of unfortunate circumstances, feeling profoundly unlucky in both her romantic relationships and her professional endeavors. Her career isn’t taking off as she hoped, and her love life feels like a constant string of disappointments.
Feeling a desperate need for a change of scenery and a spark of holiday magic, Joy makes a bold, impulsive decision: she decides to chase after her latest crush, following him all the way to the picturesque, snow-capped landscapes of Colorado for a festive escape. She hopes this daring journey will not only bring her closer to her romantic interest but also provide the much-needed rejuvenation and inspiration she craves. However, her carefully planned festive adventure takes an unforeseen twist. [IMG4]
An unexpected and severe snowstorm leaves her stranded, far from her intended destination and facing the daunting prospect of a ruined holiday. Just when all hope seems lost, Ridge, played by the charismatic Tosin Morohunfola, arrives on the scene, becoming her unexpected savior. His timely intervention sets her on a path she never anticipated. This chance encounter, brought on by the magic of a holiday snowstorm, begins to transform Joy’s journey in ways she could never have imagined, leading her towards self-discovery and perhaps even a love more profound than any crush. Perry’s signature blend of humor and heart shines through, making this a delightful addition to your holiday viewing list.
Navigating Holiday Hijinks: “A Merry Little Ex-Mas” on Netflix
Kick off Netflix’s thrilling 2025 lineup of Christmas movies with the wonderfully awkward and surprisingly poignant “A Merry Little Ex-Mas.” This delightful festive comedy stars the iconic Alicia Silverstone, portraying a recently divorced mother navigating the complexities of post-marital life during the most wonderful, yet often most stressful, time of the year. Her primary goal is to orchestrate one last perfect family Christmas celebration within the beloved family home before she prepares to put the house up for sale, hoping to create one final, cherished memory before closing that chapter of her life. [IMG5]
However, her meticulously laid plans for an idyllic holiday take an abrupt and utterly unexpected turn. Her ex-husband, portrayed by the equally charming Oliver Hudson, makes an unforeseen appearance. And if his mere presence wasn’t enough to complicate matters, he arrives with his stunning and considerably younger new girlfriend, Jameela Jamil, firmly in tow. The scene is set for an epic clash of emotions, expectations, and hilarious misunderstandings.
What unfolds is a masterclass in awkward family dynamics, as the divorced couple and the new girlfriend are forced to spend the holidays under one roof. The film brilliantly explores the challenges of co-parenting during the holidays, the pangs of past relationships, and the often-comical attempts to maintain a facade of normalcy amidst chaotic circumstances. “A Merry Little Ex-Mas” promises to deliver plenty of laughs, cringeworthy moments, and ultimately, a heartwarming message about moving forward and redefining what “family” truly means during the festive season.
Pop Stars’ Perilous Pilgrimage: “A Very Jonas Christmas”
Prepare for a high-octane, heartwarming adventure with “A Very Jonas Christmas,” available on Disney+ and Hulu. Imagine the iconic comedic chaos of Planes, Trains and Automobiles infused with the electrifying world of pop superstardom, and you’ll get a sense of this delightful narrative. The film features none other than Kevin, Joe, and Nick Jonas portraying themselves, bringing their signature charm and brotherly banter to the forefront of a holiday quest. [IMG6]
In this captivating story, the Jonas Brothers find themselves in London, facing a frantic race against time. Their mission: to return to New York from the UK in a desperate attempt to reunite with their beloved families for the holiday season. What seems like a straightforward journey quickly transforms into a series of comedic misadventures and unforeseen obstacles, putting their brotherly bond and holiday spirit to the ultimate test. From missed flights and unexpected detours to comical encounters and heartwarming moments, their pilgrimage home is anything but ordinary.
As they navigate the challenges of holiday travel and the pressures of their celebrity status, the brothers discover the true meaning of family, resilience, and the lengths one will go to be with loved ones during Christmas. This film is a feel-good spectacle that perfectly blends humor, heart, and the unique dynamic of the Jonas Brothers, making it an unmissable addition for fans and anyone seeking a festive adventure filled with laughter and touching moments.
Why a Diverse Holiday Watchlist Matters
As the curtains draw on another year, and the magic of Christmas fills the air, the opportunity to explore new narratives alongside our beloved classics is a gift in itself. The evolving landscape of streaming services has opened up a treasure trove of holiday films, from lighthearted romantic comedies to poignant family dramas, ensuring there’s something for every taste and mood. By venturing beyond the familiar, we not only broaden our entertainment horizons but also embrace fresh perspectives on the timeless themes of love, family, forgiveness, and the enduring spirit of generosity that defines the festive season.
These new additions to the Christmas movie canon—whether they’re about competitive agents finding love, authors crafting fictional families, designers discovering themselves, divorced parents navigating new dynamics, or pop stars racing home—each offer a unique lens through which to experience the magic of the holidays. They remind us that the spirit of Christmas is not static; it continually reinvents itself, offering new stories that resonate with contemporary audiences while upholding the cherished values we associate with this special time of year. So, grab your coziest blanket, prepare some hot cocoa, and embark on a cinematic journey that promises to enrich your holiday season with fresh joy and unforgettable memories. Happy viewing!
