The holiday season is here, and with it comes a sleigh-load of new Christmas movies to enjoy. While some beloved classics are guaranteed to make their annual appearance, we’re shining the spotlight on 12 brand-new releases for 2024—one for each of the 12 days of Christmas. From heartfelt tales to comedic twists, this year’s lineup truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re studying performances, exploring creative storytelling, or simply looking to soak up the festive magic, these films are the perfect companions for the holidays!
An Almost Christmas Story (Disney+ – Available Now)
This animated short, inspired by real-life events, follows the adventures of a young owl named Moon. With its hand-crafted visual style, it’s a fantastic example of how animation can tell deeply emotional and captivating stories.
A Sudden Case of Christmas (VOD – Available Now)
Danny DeVito and Andie MacDowell star in this family-centred story about a young girl working to reunite her parents. It’s a reminder that great performances shine in heartfelt narratives, no matter the genre.
Carry-On (Netflix – Available December 13)
This holiday thriller starring Taron Egerton takes a darker turn, offering suspense instead of sentimentality. Performers can take inspiration from its tension-filled performances and high-stakes storytelling.
Dear Santa (Paramount+ – Available Now)
Jack Black as Satan in a Christmas comedy? This hilarious twist on a holiday wish gone wrong offers performers a chance to observe bold, high-energy character work.
Hot Frosty (Netflix – Available Now)
What happens when a snowman comes to life? Lacey Chabert brings romance and humour to this magical story. A fantastic study in balancing comedy and heartfelt emotion, this film highlights the power of whimsical storytelling.
Jack in Time for Christmas (Prime Video – Available December 3)
Jack Whitehall leads this comedic journey to make it home in time for Christmas. A laugh-out-loud adventure, it’s perfect for studying improvisational comedy and ensemble dynamics.
Meet Me Next Christmas (Netflix – Available Now)
Set in the vibrant backdrop of New York City, Christina Milian stars in this romantic quest to find the man of her dreams at a Christmas Eve concert. Performers will appreciate its charming, driven characters.
Nutcrackers (Hulu – Available Now)
Ben Stiller stars as a businessman thrust into rural family life, navigating both grief and chaos. A heartwarming film blending humour with drama, it’s an excellent showcase of how to balance light-hearted comedy with deeper themes.
Our Little Secret (Netflix – Available Now)
Lindsay Lohan and Ian Harding bring humour and tension to this rom-com about exes reconnecting in an unexpected family twist. Performers will appreciate the nuanced comedic timing and chemistry between the leads.
Red One (In Theatres – Available Now)
This action-packed rescue mission stars Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans as they team up to save Santa Claus (J.K. Simmons) from being kidnapped. Featuring mythical creatures like Krampus, this adventure blends humour and holiday charm. For performers, it’s a masterclass in physical acting and comedic timing.
That Christmas (Netflix – Available December 4)
This animated gem from Richard Curtis intertwines family tales with the magic of Christmas. Performers can draw inspiration from its heartwarming narratives and stellar voice acting by a cast including Brian Cox and Bill Nighy.
The Merry Gentlemen (Netflix – Available Now)
This unique love story starring Chad Michael Murray and Britt Robertson combines a holiday-themed male revue with a touching romance. A quirky premise that proves even the most unconventional ideas can shine with strong performances.
Holiday films are more than just seasonal favourites—they’re opportunities to observe a wide range of acting styles, genres, and storytelling techniques. Whether it’s the whimsy of Hot Frosty, the heartfelt emotion of Nutcrackers, or the action-packed energy of Red One, performers can find inspiration in these films to enhance their craft.
So grab a cosy blanket, a hot drink, and dive into the magic of these 12 new Christmas movies. Who knows? One of them might even spark your next creative project!
Which movie are you most excited to watch? Let us know and share your holiday favourites with us!
