Watch online: 12 options for movies that take place at Christmas, but aren’t Christmassy

Not all films with Christmas scenes follow the Christmas spirit. Some classics and amazing works have Christmas as their backdrop, but tell stories that range from heartwarming drama to suspense and thrilling action.

In this article we highlight 12 films that take place during the Christmas period, but with unexpected approaches. Check!

Carol (2015)

Directed by Todd Haynes, Carol is a romantic drama set in the 1950s that takes place during the Christmas season.

The story follows Therese (Rooney Mara), a young aspiring photographer, and Carol (Cate Blanchett), a sophisticated woman trapped in an unhappy marriage. As Christmas lights up the streets of New York, the two begin a relationship that defies the conventions of the season.

With impeccable performances, “Carol” is an elegant and emotional work, perfect for those seeking romance and depth.

Die Hard (1988)

Considered by many to be one of the greatest action films of all time, “Die Hard” follows John McClane (Bruce Willis), a police officer who visits his wife in Los Angeles on Christmas Eve.

The meeting, however, turns into a fight for survival when terrorists invade the building they are in. The party atmosphere contrasts with the adrenaline-pumping scenes and McClane has become an iconic pop culture hero.

Edward Scissorhands (1990)

A classic directed by Tim Burton, “Edward Scissorhands” is a fantasy tale that mixes humor, drama and romance. The story follows Edward (Johnny Depp), an unfinished creation who has blades for hands.

He is taken in by a family and becomes a beloved figure in the community. Christmas is depicted in a magical way, with Edward sculpting ice and creating unforgettable moments.

Batman Returns (1992)

In this sequel to the 1989 hit film, also directed by Tim Burton, Christmas is the backdrop to a darker Gotham City.

In Gotham City, a millionaire manipulates the deformed Penguin into becoming mayor, while the enigmatic Catwoman emerges. Together, they challenge Batman in a fight for control of the city.

Lethal Weapon (1987)

This action film with a touch of comedy, starring Mel Gibson and Danny Glover, also has Christmas as its backdrop.

Riggs (Gibson) and Murtaugh (Glover) make an unlikely pair of police officers facing a dangerous drug trafficking network. The direction is by Richard Donner, from “The Goonies” and “Superman – The Movie”.

Eyes Wide Shut (1999)

Stanley Kubrick’s latest film is an intense psychological thriller set during the Christmas period.

Dr. Bill Harford (Tom Cruise) becomes embroiled in a series of mysterious events after discovering that his wife (Nicole Kidman) has been having thoughts of infidelity.

With scenes illuminated by Christmas lights, the plot explores themes such as desire, betrayal and secrets, creating a unique and disturbing atmosphere.

The rejected (2023)

Dramatic comedy directed by Alexander Payne (“Nebraska” and “Little Life”), starring Paul Giamatti.

In the plot, after the end of the school year, a group of students, with nowhere to go, remain in the Barton Academy boarding school. The teacher (Paul Hunham Giamatti), reluctantly responsible for the remaining students, faces challenges with Angus, an intelligent but rebellious young man.

The school’s head chef, also dealing with her own grief, joins the story. Between conflicts and reflections, the three develop an unexpected bond.

Little Women (2019)

Based on the classic book by Louisa May Alcott, Little Women follows the lives of four sisters during and after the American Civil War.

Christmas appears as a symbol of renewal and hope at important moments in the plot, bringing emotion and meaning.

Directed by Greta Gerwig (“Barbie”), the film features a strong cast, including Saoirse Ronan, Florence Pugh, Emma Watson, Meryl Streep and Timothée Chalamet.

Heaven Sent Someone (1948)

Classic film directed by the master John Ford (“Traces of Hate”), with John Wayne in the cast.

This Christmas western tells the story of three outlaws who find an orphaned boy and decide to take care of him while running away from their responsibilities.

With a thrilling plot full of symbolism, it is a film that combines the spirit of redemption with the harshness of the Old West.

The Hunt (2012)

Directed by Thomas Vinterberg and Mads Mikkelsen in the lead role, this intense drama deals with the devastating consequences of an unjust accusation.

While Christmas is the backdrop, the plot focuses on Lucas (Mikkelsen), a kindergartener, who sees his life fall apart after little Klara (Annika Wedderkopp) falsely accuses him of abuse.

The complaint, the result of a childhood misunderstanding, leads to his dismissal and makes him a target for the community, which judges him without evidence.

American Psycho (2000)

This disturbing thriller follows Patrick Bateman (Christian Bale), a young executive who leads a double life as a serial killer.

Although Christmas only appears in a few scenes, it highlights the time period in which the story is set and creates a striking contrast to the film’s dark themes.

Risky Baggage (2024)

An airport security officer is blackmailed by a mysterious passenger into taking dangerous luggage onto a flight, threatening the life of his pregnant girlfriend.

Racing against time, he must avoid a plane crash while trying to unravel the mystery behind the package.

Action film directed by Jaume Collet-Serra (“Sem Escalas”, “Águas Rasas”), with Taron Egerton and Jason Bateman in the cast.

The post Watch Online: 12 Options for Movies That Take Place at Christmas, But Aren’t Christmas appeared first on Olhar Digital.

Source: Olhar Digital

Rose

Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.