Christmas is a time for giving gifts, and what could be a better gift than a free film? While many classic Christmas movies will air on TV throughout December, audiences can also stream many terrific movies at any time, free of charge, to celebrate.
There are many festive films across multiple genres that viewers can enjoy for free on several streaming platforms. Whether or not you celebrate Christmas, these are some of the best new and classic films that would make for a wonderful movie night this holiday season.
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
Directed by legendary filmmaker Frank Capra, It’s A Wonderful Life follows George Bailey (Jimmy Stewart) as he grows up, falls in love, and falls on hard times in his lifelong pursuit to help others. Down on his luck and considering suicide, George receives help from an angel named Clarence (Henry Travers), who shows him what the world would be like if he had never been born.
It’s A Wonderful Life will remind viewers about the joys and value of their existence as they see how George discovers true wealth in the people he loves. Given how depressing the modern world can be for some, this film may just be what viewers need to lift their spirits this holiday season.
Stream It’s A Wonderful Life for free on Prime Video.
Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
This John Hughes film is technically a Thanksgiving movie, but it remains a holiday classic that families will want to watch this Christmas. Planes, Trains and Automobiles follows marketing executive Neal Page (Steve Martin) as he struggles to return home to his family in Chicago, only to end up on a road trip with the obnoxious but lovable salesman Del (John Candy).
So many things in this story go wrong in the most hilarious ways, making for one of the best buddy comedies ever. At the same time, it tells a poignant tale that encourages its viewers to show empathy for those around them, despite how annoying they can be. Some viewers could use Del’s wise words to get them through meeting with difficult relatives for the holidays.
Stream Planes, Trains and Automobiles for free on Pluto TV.
A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
What’s Christmastime without a little Peanuts? As the rest of his peers celebrate the holiday season, the depressed Charlie Brown (Peter Robbins) questions what Christmas is really about and tries to find his holiday spirit. Per the suggestion of his “psychiatrist,” Lucy (Tracy Stratford), Charlie Brown decides to direct the annual Christmas play with his friends, but not everyone is on board with his efforts.
Vince Guaraldi’s music from this special alone has become synonymous with Christmas itself. However, A Charlie Brown Christmas has become an iconic film for its exploration of what the holidays are about, as Charlie Brown finds joy with his loved ones and not pricey gifts. Also, many can relate to Charlie Brown as he overcomes his depression and loneliness, making for one of the most grounded and heartwarming Christmas films ever.
Stream A Charlie Brown Christmas for free on Apple TV.
Roofman (2025)
This unbelievable new crime film adapts the true story of Jeffrey Manchester (Channing Tatum), a divorced army veteran imprisoned for robbing dozens of McDonald’s. After escaping from captivity, the movie follows Jeffrey as he hides out at a Toys “R” Us for several months, beginning a romantic relationship with an employee, single mother Leigh (Kirsten Dunst).
Many viewers can sympathize with the film’s version of Jeffrey, who commits crimes to raise money to buy his daughter the things she wants and be a “better” father. Despite its heavier moments, Roofman presents a humorous and heartfelt story of redemption and kindness as Jeffrey tries to do better and give back to those he cares about, discovering his true value and what it means to be a good person
Stream Roofman for free on Paramount+.
The Green Knight (2021)
Fans of King Arthur and fantasy movies will enjoy The Green Knight this holiday season. This film begins with Sir Gawain (Dev Patel) facing off against the titular knight (Ralph Ineson), who is summoned on Christmas Day by Gawain’s magical mother, Morgane le Fay (Sarita Choudhury). After dealing what should have been a fatal blow to his foe, Gawain journeys across the land to receive an equal blow from the immortal warrior a year later to prove his courage.
This fantasy-adventure film from David Lowery and A24 may not be a traditional Christmas movie. However, it is still a riveting and thoughtful film that should be experienced at least once. It explores the true meaning of bravery and knighthood as Gawain travels on to meet his fate and face the Green Knight, making for one of the most gripping fantasy films in recent years.
Stream The Green Knight for free on Tubi and on Pluto TV.
