There’s something about holiday romances that transforms even the most cynical of hearts. As the world turns soft with twinkling lights and the promise of new beginnings, Christmas movies become our collective comfort—a cinematic hot chocolate for the soul. So, as the holiday season falls upon us and the new year is on the horizon, we need the kind of hope that only appears when snowflakes are falling and possibility hangs in the crisp winter air. Here are five must-watch movies that do exactly that:
Love, Actually (2003)
It’s not Christmas without this quintessential holiday rom-com. Set in the backdrop of festive London, Richard Curtis’ A-list ensemble masterpiece weaves together multiple love stories. From the adorable Prime Minister (Hugh Grant) falling for a staffer to a heartbreaking performance by Emma Thompson, Love Actually captures love in all its beautiful, messy ways, and reminds you that love really is all around, especially in the holidays.
The Princess Switch (2018)
Vanessa Hudgens times two (or three, if you’re into the sequels). Netflix’s modern holiday fairytale is equal parts cheesy and charming. The story follows a Chicago baker who swaps places with a European duchess—both played by Hudgens. Chaos ensues, and they both end up discovering themselves and love in the process. Think The Parent Trap meets Christmas royalty, with plenty of baking, ball gowns, and romance.
Bridget Jones’ Diary (2001)
Meet Bridget Jones: a perfectly imperfect heroine navigating love, career, and self-improvement. Set against the backdrop of London during the holiday season (of course), Renee Zellweger’s portrayal of Bridget is iconic, and add in Colin Firth’s dashing Mark Darcy (and his reindeer sweater), and you’ve got a Christmas classic that’s equal parts hilarious and heartwarming. It's a story about finding love while being unapologetically yourself—awkward moments and all.
Happiest Season (2020)
Funny and poignant, Kristen Stewart stars as a woman planning to propose to her girlfriend during the holidays, only to discover her partner isn't yet out to her conservative family. A touching exploration of coming out and what it means to be family, it's a modern love story that brings depth, humor, and heart to the holiday romance genre.
While You Were Sleeping (1995)
Sandra Bullock stars as Lucy, a lonely transit worker who saves her crush from an oncoming train, and is mistakenly believed to be his fiancée by his family. Unexpectedly, she finds herself falling for his brother instead. Set during the Christmas and New Year period, it's a charming, quirky story about found family, unexpected love, and the magic of holiday connections.
Bonus: When Harry Met Sally (1989)
While not exclusively a Christmas movie, When Harry Met Sally features some of the most memorable holiday scenes in romantic comedy history. The ultimate will-they-won’t-they romance that spans years, Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan’s electric chemistry takes viewers on a journey of friendship, banter, and eventual romance, proving that love is worth waiting for.
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