Best Thanksgiving Movies of All Time
The turkey is in the oven, the table is set, and family is starting to gather. While you wait for the Thanksgiving feast to begin, there’s nothing quite like cozying up to a good movie that celebrates the warmth, humor, and even the chaos of the holiday. But with so many options out there, finding the right movie to fit the Thanksgiving mood can be overwhelming.
This blog post takes away the guesswork, offering a collection of the best Thanksgiving movies that have become must-watch holiday traditions. Whether you’re in the mood for heartwarming family dramas, nostalgic comedies, or films that explore the complicated dynamics of family life, we’ve got you covered with the perfect picks for Thanksgiving!
Heartwarming Family Classics
Thanksgiving is a time for connection and gratitude, and these films will warm your heart with tales of family, love, and togetherness.
- Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
Directed by John Hughes, this iconic film is the quintessential Thanksgiving movie. Starring Steve Martin and John Candy, it tells the hilarious and heartwarming story of two strangers trying to get home for Thanksgiving amidst a series of travel disasters. With its perfect blend of humor and sentimentality, Planes, Trains and Automobiles has earned its place as a beloved Thanksgiving tradition. - A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
A holiday classic, A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving brings back childhood memories for many. This animated TV special showcases the gang coming together for an impromptu Thanksgiving meal. With its simple yet touching message of friendship and gratitude, it’s a perfect watch for families. - Pieces of April (2003)
A charming indie film starring Katie Holmes, Pieces of April follows the story of a rebellious young woman who attempts to host Thanksgiving dinner for her estranged family in her small New York City apartment. The film beautifully captures the tension and reconciliation that can often accompany family gatherings. - The Blind Side (2009)
While not solely a Thanksgiving movie, The Blind Side embodies the spirit of the holiday with its themes of compassion, generosity, and the importance of family. Starring Sandra Bullock in an Oscar-winning performance, it tells the true story of Michael Oher, a homeless teenager who is adopted by a loving family. - The Family Stone (2005)
The Family Stone captures the chaos and emotions of a large family Thanksgiving reunion. Starring Diane Keaton, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Luke Wilson, this film is a mix of comedy and drama, showing the ups and downs of family life during the holiday season.
Comedic Thanksgiving Films
Thanksgiving can be a chaotic and stressful time, but it’s also a holiday full of humor. These comedies will make you laugh while celebrating the quirks of family gatherings.
- Home for the Holidays (1995)
Directed by Jodie Foster, this film follows Claudia (Holly Hunter) as she returns to her parents’ home for Thanksgiving after losing her job and facing personal challenges. With Robert Downey Jr. and Anne Bancroft also starring, Home for the Holidays is a witty and heartfelt look at the dysfunction and love that comes with family gatherings. - Dutch (1991)
Dutch is an underrated comedy that follows the story of Dutch (Ed O’Neill) as he travels to pick up his girlfriend’s son from boarding school for Thanksgiving. Along the way, they bond through a series of misadventures. It’s a funny yet touching story of unexpected connections and family bonds. - Addams Family Values (1993)
While this movie is often remembered for its Gothic family antics, it features one of the most hilarious and memorable Thanksgiving-themed scenes ever. The absurdly comedic Thanksgiving play put on by Wednesday Addams (Christina Ricci) makes Addams Family Values a must-watch for anyone looking for laughs during the holiday. - Grumpy Old Men (1993)
Set during Thanksgiving, this hilarious film starring Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau follows two aging neighbors who are constantly at odds with each other. Full of slapstick humor and witty dialogue, Grumpy Old Men is a feel-good comedy perfect for the holiday. - Tower Heist (2011)
Set around the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Tower Heist is an entertaining heist comedy featuring Ben Stiller, Eddie Murphy, and Alan Alda. The film’s action and comedy unfold against the backdrop of the holiday season, making it an unconventional but fun Thanksgiving watch.
Thanksgiving-Themed Dramas
Sometimes Thanksgiving is more than just food and laughter—it’s a time for reflection, challenges, and growth. These dramas dive deep into family dynamics and holiday emotions.
- Hannah and Her Sisters (1986)
Woody Allen’s Hannah and Her Sisters centers around three Thanksgiving gatherings over two years and explores the relationships between sisters, their significant others, and their extended family. With a stellar cast including Mia Farrow, Dianne Wiest, and Michael Caine, the film expertly balances drama and humor, showcasing the complexities of familial ties. - Krisha (2015)
An emotionally intense indie drama, Krisha follows the story of a woman returning to her family for Thanksgiving after years of estrangement. The film portrays the raw tension that can surface during the holiday, making it a powerful look at the struggles of forgiveness and reconciliation. - Scent of a Woman (1992)
Starring Al Pacino in one of his most famous roles, Scent of a Woman takes place over Thanksgiving weekend. The story follows a young student who takes a job looking after a blind, irritable retired military officer. Through their journey together, themes of loyalty, bravery, and personal growth come to the forefront. - Avalon (1990)
Directed by Barry Levinson, Avalon is a family saga that focuses on a Polish-Jewish immigrant family as they build their lives in America. The film prominently features Thanksgiving as a time of reflection and highlights the generational differences in how the holiday is celebrated. - The Ice Storm (1997)
Set during Thanksgiving 1973, The Ice Storm examines the unraveling of two suburban families amidst the backdrop of social changes in America. With an ensemble cast including Sigourney Weaver, Kevin Kline, and Tobey Maguire, this drama explores themes of infidelity, family dysfunction, and emotional disconnect.
Animated & Family-Friendly Films for Thanksgiving
If you’re watching with kids or just looking for something light-hearted, these family-friendly films will bring fun and warmth to your Thanksgiving celebration.
- Free Birds (2013)
This animated comedy tells the story of two turkeys (voiced by Owen Wilson and Woody Harrelson) who travel back in time to the first Thanksgiving to try to take turkey off the menu. It’s a fun, family-friendly movie with plenty of laughs and adventure. - An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving (2008)
Based on a short story by Louisa May Alcott, this Hallmark film is a heartwarming family drama set during the Thanksgiving season. It’s a feel-good story of reconciliation and understanding, perfect for a cozy family movie night. - Garfield’s Thanksgiving (1989)
Everyone’s favorite lazy cat, Garfield, stars in this Thanksgiving special where his Thanksgiving feast is put in jeopardy due to a forced diet. Filled with humor and charm, this animated film is a delightful holiday treat. - Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
Though more associated with Christmas, Miracle on 34th Street begins at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The film’s themes of belief, kindness, and family make it an excellent choice for starting your holiday movie marathon. - Charlie Brown’s All-Stars (1966)
Another Charlie Brown classic, this short film captures the camaraderie and the little struggles the gang faces, making it a great option for some light-hearted family entertainment.
European Films:
- Amelie (2001, France): This whimsical and heartwarming French film follows the life of Amélie Poulain, a quirky young woman who lives in Montmartre, Paris. Amélie finds joy in helping others and bringing happiness to their lives, often in unexpected ways. Through her adventures, Amélie discovers the beauty of human connection and the importance of living life to the fullest.
- Cinema Paradiso (1988, Italy): This nostalgic and bittersweet Italian film tells the story of Salvatore “Toto” Di Vita, a young boy who grows up in a small Sicilian village. Toto’s passion for cinema leads him to work as a projectionist in the local theater, where he experiences the magic of the silver screen. As Toto grows older, he must confront the challenges of life and the changing world of cinema.
- The Secret of Kells (2009, Ireland/Belgium/France): This animated film tells the story of Brendan, a young Irish monk who is sent to the isolated Abbey of Kells to help create a magnificent illuminated manuscript. Brendan’s journey takes him on a perilous adventure through the Irish countryside, where he encounters mythical creatures and discovers the power of art and imagination.
- My Life as a Zucchini (2016, Switzerland): This heartwarming animated film follows the story of a young boy named Icare, who is sent to an orphanage after the death of his mother. Icare struggles to fit in with the other children, but he eventually finds friendship and acceptance. The film explores themes of loss, resilience, and the importance of family.
- The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2009, Sweden): While not a traditional family film, this Swedish thriller explores themes of family, justice, and the power of love. The story follows Lisbeth Salander, a young hacker with a troubled past, who is hired to investigate the disappearance of a wealthy businessman. As Lisbeth delves deeper into the case, she uncovers a web of corruption and violence.
Asian Films:
- Spirited Away (2001, Japan): This magical and imaginative animated film from Studio Ghibli tells the story of Chihiro, a young girl who is accidentally trapped in a strange spirit world. Chihiro must work for the enigmatic sorceress Yubaba in order to free herself and her parents. The film explores themes of courage, friendship, and the importance of preserving one’s identity.
- Howl’s Moving Castle (2004, Japan): Another enchanting animated film from Studio Ghibli, Howl’s Moving Castle tells the story of Sophie, a young woman who is cursed by a powerful witch. Sophie is transformed into an old woman and must seek the help of the mysterious wizard Howl to break the curse. The film is a visually stunning and imaginative exploration of love, magic, and the power of human connection.
- Life is Beautiful (1997, Italy): This heartwarming and inspiring Italian film tells the story of Guido Orefice, a Jewish man who uses humor and imagination to protect his son, Giosuè, from the horrors of the Holocaust. Guido creates a fantasy world for Giosuè, convincing him that their time in a concentration camp is a game. The film is a powerful and moving tribute to the human spirit and the enduring power of love.
- The Intouchables (2011, France): This heartwarming and uplifting comedy-drama tells the story of Philippe, a wealthy quadriplegic, and Driss, a young man from the suburbs who becomes his caregiver. Despite their differences, Philippe and Driss form an unlikely friendship that changes both of their lives. The film celebrates the power of human connection and the importance of embracing diversity.
- Monsoon Wedding (2001, India): This vibrant and colorful Indian film captures the chaos and joy of a traditional Indian wedding. The film follows the lives of a family as they prepare for the wedding of their daughter, Aditi. Monsoon Wedding is a celebration of Indian culture, family, and the enduring power of love.
Latin American Films:
- Y Tu Mamá También (2001, Mexico): This coming-of-age road trip film follows the adventures of two teenage boys, Tenoch and Juan, who embark on a journey to a secluded beach. Along the way, they meet Luisa, a beautiful older woman who becomes their guide. The film explores themes of friendship, sexuality, and class, and offers a glimpse into the vibrant culture of Mexico.
- Motorcycle Diaries (2004, Argentina): This biographical film is based on the travels of Che Guevara and his friend Alberto Granado through South America. The film captures the spirit of adventure, exploration, and social justice that inspired Guevara to become a revolutionary.
- Central Station (1998, Brazil): This heartwarming and poignant drama tells the story of Dora, a cynical woman who works as a letter writer in Rio de Janeiro. Dora is approached by a young boy named Josué, who is trying to find his father. Despite her initial reluctance, Dora agrees to help Josué, and their journey together leads to unexpected discoveries and personal growth.
- City of God (2002, Brazil): This gritty and realistic film provides a glimpse into the harsh realities of life in the slums of Rio de Janeiro. The film follows the lives of a group of young boys who grow up in the favelas, where violence, poverty, and crime are a constant threat. Despite the challenges they face, the boys find hope and resilience in their friendships and dreams.
- Pan’s Labyrinth (2006, Mexico/Spain): This dark fantasy film tells the story of Ofelia, a young girl who is forced to move to a remote village with her pregnant mother. Ofelia discovers a hidden world filled with mythical creatures and a mysterious faun who promises to help her return to the magical realm she once knew. The film explores themes of childhood, imagination, and the horrors of war.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for heartwarming stories, laugh-out-loud comedies, or intense family dramas, these Thanksgiving movies offer something for everyone. From classics like Planes, Trains and Automobiles to animated gems like Free Birds, and films from various continents, each movie brings its own unique flavor to the holiday. As you gather with loved ones and enjoy a feast, settle in with one (or more!) of these films to celebrate the joy, laughter, and warmth of Thanksgiving.
Citations:
- Ebert, Roger. “Planes, Trains and Automobiles Movie Review (1987).” RogerEbert.com, 2017.
- Nehme, Farran Smith. “The Cult of Addams Family Values.” The New York Times, 2021.
- Tobias, Scott. “The Charm of A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving.” Vox, 2019.
- Travers, Peter. “Home for the Holidays Movie Review.” Rolling Stone, 1995.
- Muncer, Mike. “Revisiting The Family Stone.” Empire, 2010.
