Best Thanksgiving movies

“Thanksgiving is more than a day. It’s a frame of mind.” – W.J. Cameron. This quote by the American author and broadcaster captures Thanksgiving’s true spirit. Families come together, sharing a feast and counting their blessings. Filmmakers have brought this joy and togetherness to life in many Thanksgiving movies.

These movies range from funny comedies like Planes, Trains and Automobiles to touching family dramas like The Ice Storm. They celebrate the holiday’s themes of unity, tradition, and self-reflection. Whether you’re looking for laughs, tears, or both, these films are a feast for your senses. They show the joy, nostalgia, and bittersweet moments that make Thanksgiving special.

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Key Takeaways

Thanksgiving-themed movies span a variety of genres, from classic comedies to modern family dramas.
These films capture the spirit of gratitude, togetherness, and nostalgia that are central to the Thanksgiving holiday.
Some movies use Thanksgiving as a backdrop for exploring deeper themes, while others focus solely on the holiday celebrations.
The list includes a mix of beloved classics and contemporary releases, catering to a diverse range of viewer preferences.
Watching Thanksgiving movies can be a meaningful way to connect with the holiday’s traditions and emotions.

Classic Thanksgiving Comedies

Thanksgiving comedies bring out the funny side of holiday prep. They show the chaos of trying to get home and the quirks of family gatherings. These films offer a mix of laughter and warmth, making Thanksgiving more enjoyable.

Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)

Planes, Trains and Automobiles is a top Thanksgiving comedy. It tells the story of Neal Page (Steve Martin) and Del Griffith (John Candy) facing many funny challenges. They try to get home for Thanksgiving, showing the stress of travel and the friendship that can grow between two people.

Addams Family Values (1993)

Addams Family Values isn’t just about Thanksgiving, but it has a memorable scene. Wednesday Addams (Christina Ricci) makes fun of Thanksgiving in a school play, adding a dark twist. This comedy gives a fresh take on Thanksgiving with its unique style.

These Thanksgiving comedies are holiday staples, blending humor and heart. They show the chaos of travel in Planes, Trains and Automobiles and the quirky Thanksgiving play in Addams Family Values. These classic Thanksgiving films are cherished as family Thanksgiving movies.

Thanksgiving Family Dramas

Thanksgiving movies are not just about laughter. There are also films that show the deep, complex family issues that come up during the holidays. The Ice Storm, a 1997 film by Ang Lee, is a perfect example. It’s a bittersweet story set in 1970s Connecticut.

The Ice Storm tells the story of two wealthy families, the Hoods and the Carvers. They face big problems like cheating spouses and finding their true selves over a Thanksgiving weekend. Ang Lee’s skillful direction brings out the feelings of boredom and decay of that time. He shows how the holiday can both bring people together and tear them apart.

Thanksgiving family dramas show a wide range of feelings and experiences. They can be about families coming together or facing their problems. These films offer a deeper look into the holiday season than the usual light-hearted movies.

“The holidays are a time when people are especially hopeful, but that’s not always the case.”

These films, whether they’re about the complex relationships within families or the emotional struggles of the season, offer a different view of Thanksgiving. They are a thought-provoking alternative to the usual holiday movies.

Heartwarming Thanksgiving Tales

Thanksgiving movies are more than just laughs and drama. They show the holiday’s heartwarming side, focusing on gratitude, community, and togetherness. These heartwarming thanksgiving movies may not be the biggest hits, but they fill us with warmth. They celebrate family, whether by blood or choice, and the holiday’s power to unite us.

For example, “Soul Food” (1997) tells a story of family bonding over Sunday dinners. It’s about values and support. “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” explores the anxiety of meeting the family for the first time. And “The Big Chill” is about the deep bond of old friends, perfect for the holiday mood.

These heartwarming thanksgiving movies show the holiday’s true spirit. It’s not about the food or the mess, but the connections and love we share. They offer a cozy break from the holiday stress, reminding us to value our loved ones and precious moments.

Best Thanksgiving Movies

Thanksgiving movies might not be as common as Christmas or Halloween films. Yet, there are many great top thanksgiving movies, must-see thanksgiving films, and essential thanksgiving cinema. These films capture the holiday’s spirit and themes. They include classic comedies, heartwarming family tales, and even horror flicks.

Looking for laughs, tears, or thrills this Turkey Day? These films offer the perfect mix of holiday cheer and quality cinema. They vary in tone and genre but all provide memorable Thanksgiving-themed experiences.

Only 7 decades of genuinely good Thanksgiving movies are listed. Classics like Planes, Trains, and Automobiles and Sweet November are included. Also, films like Almost Christmas and A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving bring a nostalgic feel. The list also touches on historical events and complex family dynamics in films like The Big Chill and She’s Gotta Have It.

Movie	Year	Genre
The Very Thought of You	1944	Drama
By the Light of the Silvery Moon	1953	Comedy
Alice’s Restaurant	1969	Drama
The Last Waltz	1978	Documentary
Hannah and Her Sisters	1986	Drama
Planes, Trains, and Automobiles	1987	Comedy
Sweet November	2001	Romance
Almost Christmas	2016	Comedy
Home for the Holidays	1995	Drama
Fantastic Mr. Fox	2009	Animation
Pieces of April	2003	Drama
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving	1973	Animation
The Big Chill	1983	Drama
She’s Gotta Have It	1986	Comedy
Knives Out	2019	Mystery
Friendsgiving	2020	Comedy
Soul Food	1997	Drama
Rocky	1976	Drama
Mistress America	2015	Comedy

These top thanksgiving movies, must-see thanksgiving films, and essential thanksgiving cinema include classics and modern indie gems. They offer a wide range of Thanksgiving-themed cinematic experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for laughter, reflection, or holiday horror, there’s something for every Thanksgiving movie fan.

top thanksgiving movies

Thanksgiving Horror Movies

Thanksgiving might not be the first holiday horror fans think of. Yet, there are films that bring scares to the table. These movies mix up the usual Turkey Day fun with horror.

Thanksgiving (2022): A Gory Homage to the Grindhouse

The 2022 slasher Thanksgiving, directed by Eli Roth, is a standout. It tells the story of a killer in Plymouth, Massachusetts, the holiday’s birthplace. The film combines grindhouse gore with dark humor, making it a must-see for horror fans.

The Thanksgiving horror genre is small but rich. Only a dozen films make the holiday a key part of their story. Yet, some have found a special place in holiday horror.

The ThanksKilling series, with ThanksKilling (2008) and ThanksKilling 3 (2012), is a campy delight. It features a killer turkey. Kristy (2014) is more serious, showing a college student facing masked cultists during Thanksgiving.

Looking for gory slashers, creature features, or dark comedies? The thanksgiving horror movies, turkey day terror, and holiday horror films have it all. They’re perfect for satisfying your horror cravings this season.

Animated Thanksgiving Classics

Thanksgiving has inspired many animated classics over the years. A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving is a standout from 1973. It shows the Peanuts gang celebrating Thanksgiving in their own special way.

With its lovable characters and catchy songs, A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving is a favorite. It’s perfect for both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family friendly thanksgiving films.

There are many other animated thanksgiving movies that families love. We’re Back: A Dinosaur’s Story (1993) and Winnie the Pooh: Seasons of Giving (1999) are just a few. These films mix fun, emotion, and holiday spirit for all ages.

When planning your Thanksgiving movie marathon, include these classics. They offer a mix of Peanuts charm and fantastical holiday tales. These animated thanksgiving movies can become annual traditions for your family.

animated thanksgiving movies

Thanksgiving Romantic Comedies

Thanksgiving has inspired many romantic comedies over the years. These thanksgiving romantic comedies, holiday romance movies, and seasonal date night films focus on love, family, and new starts. They show characters dealing with romance during Thanksgiving, a time full of challenges and chances.

These movies are perfect for a cozy night or a fun date. They mix laughter and heartwarming moments, making them great for the holiday season.

Movie	Release Year	Description
“Holiday Engagement”	2011	A romantic comedy about a young professional who hires an actor to pose as her fiancé during Thanksgiving weekend.
“Falling for You”	2018	A radio station manager organizes a bachelor bake-off to save her town’s radio station.
“Falling for Vermont”	2017	A best-selling author with amnesia falls in love in Vermont during the fall season.

Looking for a classic Thanksgiving comedy or a seasonal romance? The thanksgiving romantic comedies have it all. Grab a cup of hot cider and get ready for laughter, love, and holiday cheer.

Quirky Thanksgiving Indies

Not all Thanksgiving movies are about warm family stories or classic laughs. There’s a world of quirky, offbeat indie films that see the holiday in a fresh way. These quirky Thanksgiving indies dive into the messy sides of family time. They question what makes a Thanksgiving perfect.

The House of Yes (1997)

“The House of Yes” is a prime example of a quirky Thanksgiving indie. Released in 1997, it’s a dark comedy by Mark Waters. It centers on the Paschal family’s Thanksgiving, with a twisty tale of twin siblings Marty and Jackie-O, played by Parker Posey.

This film shows the hidden tensions in families. It’s a stark contrast to usual unconventional thanksgiving movies or indie thanksgiving films.

“It’s a far cry from the typical Thanksgiving fare, but offers a refreshingly unique perspective on the holiday.”

There are many more offbeat holiday movies that break the mold. Films like “What’s Cooking?” celebrate different cultures. “The Ice Storm” shows the cracks in suburban life. These unconventional thanksgiving movies bring new stories and deeper looks at Thanksgiving.

These quirky Thanksgiving indies tackle big themes like family, identity, and social issues. They offer a break from the usual holiday movies. By going offbeat, they make us think differently about Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving Blockbusters

Thanksgiving isn’t usually linked with big-budget movies. Yet, a few films have made a big splash. The 2002 superhero hit Spider-Man is a great example. It features a memorable Thanksgiving scene.

In the movie, Peter Parker (Tobey Maguire) goes to Thanksgiving dinner with Mary Jane Watson (Kirsten Dunst) and her family. This scene brings out the holiday spirit. It’s also a key moment in the story. Even though Thanksgiving isn’t the main theme, these scenes add to the holiday movie world.

Other notable thanksgiving blockbuster movies include:

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013), which grossed $158 million over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
Frozen (2013), which made $97 million during its opening weekend over Thanksgiving and went on to become a global phenomenon.
Moana (2016), which made $82 million in the first five days after its release during Thanksgiving and grossed $687.2 million worldwide.

Even though thanksgiving blockbuster movies are rare, they show the holiday’s appeal in big-budget films. They add to the rich tapestry of mainstream thanksgiving cinema.

Underrated Thanksgiving Gems

Classic Thanksgiving movies like “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” and “Addams Family Values” get a lot of attention. But, there are many lesser-known films that are true hidden gems. One such film is the 2015 psychological drama “Krisha,” directed by Trey Edward Shults.

“Krisha” is about a woman named Krisha (played by Krisha Fairchild) who comes back to her family for Thanksgiving. The film shows a raw and unsettling side of the holiday. It’s known for its improvisational style and honest look at family problems.

There are many other underrated Thanksgiving movies out there. Some focus on comfort food, while others show different family cultures. Even big franchises like “Rocky” have used Thanksgiving as a setting, showing how versatile the holiday is in stories.

These movies explore different themes, from family conflicts to the New York Thanksgiving vibe in “Mistress America.” They offer a fresh and often deeper look at Thanksgiving. So, if you’re looking for something new, these films are a great place to start.

Underrated Thanksgiving Movies

“Krisha offers a powerful, unsettling take on the holiday experience.”

Conclusion

Thanksgiving may not be as big as other holidays in movies, but it has a lot to offer. There are many thanksgiving movie roundup that show its spirit and traditions. From funny comedies to serious dramas, there’s a wide range of best thanksgiving films to watch.

These movies give us a peek into the joys and challenges of Thanksgiving. They’re perfect for watching with family on Turkey Day. Whether you like heartwarming stories or big-budget films, there’s something for everyone.

These holiday movie recommendations highlight the holiday’s importance and the creativity of filmmakers. They show how Thanksgiving can be seen in many ways through movies. Watching these films can make your Thanksgiving celebration even better and give you a new view of this American tradition.

FAQ

What are the best Thanksgiving movies?

The best Thanksgiving movies range from classic comedies to heartwarming dramas. Classics like Planes, Trains and Automobiles and Addams Family Values are great. Also, films like The Ice Storm and feel-good tales show the holiday’s spirit of gratitude and togetherness.

What are some of the most popular Thanksgiving comedy movies?

Top Thanksgiving comedies include Planes, Trains and Automobiles. It’s about two travelers’ misadventures home for the holiday. Addams Family Values is another hit, with a funny school play that rewrites Thanksgiving history.

What are some Thanksgiving family dramas worth watching?

The Ice Storm is a must-see family drama. It shows the complex dynamics and personal crises that happen when family comes together over the holiday.

Are there any heartwarming, sentimental Thanksgiving movies?

Yes, many Thanksgiving movies celebrate gratitude, community, and togetherness. They offer a comforting, feel-good experience.

What are some of the best overall Thanksgiving movies to watch?

The best Thanksgiving movies cover many genres. From classic comedies and family tales to indies and big-budget blockbusters with holiday scenes.

Are there any Thanksgiving horror movies?

Yes, a few films have embraced the seasonal scares of Thanksgiving. The 2022 slasher Thanksgiving is a great example.

What are some classic Thanksgiving animated movies?

A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving is a beloved classic. It’s a 1973 special that shows the Peanuts gang celebrating the holiday in their own way.

Are there any Thanksgiving romantic comedies worth watching?

Yes, Thanksgiving has inspired many heartwarming romantic comedies. They explore love, family, and new beginnings during the holiday.

Are there any unconventional or offbeat Thanksgiving movies?

Yes, not all Thanksgiving movies are warm and fuzzy. Films like The House of Yes offer a dysfunctional take on family gatherings.

Are there any big-budget Thanksgiving blockbusters?

While rare, some big movies are set during Thanksgiving. The 2002 superhero film Spider-Man is a notable example, with a memorable Thanksgiving scene.

Are there any underrated or lesser-known Thanksgiving movie gems?

Yes, there are many underrated Thanksgiving movies. The 2015 psychological drama Krisha is a great example of a hidden gem.