Every holiday season, the debate flares up: What counts as a Christmas movie? While classics like It’s a Wonderful Life or Elf are unmistakably tied to holiday cheer, some films exist in the gray area, featuring Christmas as a backdrop without making it the central theme. These movies spark debates at holiday gatherings and bring a refreshing twist to the usual lineup. Let’s dive into the best Christmas movies that aren’t actually about Christmas.
1. Die Hard (1988)
The granddaddy of this debate. Die Hard sees Bruce Willis’s John McClane battling terrorists at an office Christmas party. Sure, there’s a tree, carols, and even a gift (a gun), but the holiday merely serves as the setting for high-stakes action. Is it a Christmas movie? Fans say yes—and it’s now a holiday tradition for many.
2. Gremlins (1984)
At first glance, Gremlins looks like a typical Christmas story: A father buys his son a strange but adorable gift, a Mogwai named Gizmo. Chaos ensues when the rules aren’t followed, and the town faces an army of mischievous creatures. While Christmas is in the air, this film is more about horror, comedy, and lessons in responsibility.
3. Batman Returns (1992)
Tim Burton’s dark and moody Batman Returns takes place during the Christmas season, but Gotham’s snowy streets are filled with corruption and danger rather than joy. With a Christmas tree lighting, mistletoe moments, and a holiday party, the festive vibes are there—but let’s be real, it’s all about Batman vs. the Penguin and Catwoman.
4. Trading Places (1983)
This hilarious comedy starring Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd is a story of deception, greed, and revenge. While it unfolds during Christmas and includes memorable scenes like Aykroyd in a filthy Santa suit, the film’s focus on social commentary and humor overshadows its holiday ties.
5. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
The title screams Christmas, but this Tim Burton masterpiece is really a Halloween movie wearing a Santa hat. Jack Skellington’s quest to hijack Christmas makes it festive, but at its core, it’s about rediscovering purpose and appreciating one’s identity.
6. Lethal Weapon (1987)
Much like Die Hard, this action-packed buddy cop film uses Christmas as its backdrop. From holiday music to festive lights, the season is sprinkled throughout the movie—but it’s really about Riggs and Murtaugh taking down the bad guys in true 80s action fashion.
7. Eyes Wide Shut (1999)
This Stanley Kubrick psychological drama is far from traditional holiday fare. The story of jealousy and secrets plays out under twinkling Christmas lights, but the festive décor is purely atmospheric in this unsettling tale of relationships.
8. Iron Man 3 (2013)
Set during the holiday season, this Marvel blockbuster sees Tony Stark battling personal demons and supervillains alike. The Christmas setting feels like an afterthought, but it does add some seasonal charm to the action-packed superhero adventure.
9. Mean Girls (2004)
Technically not a Christmas movie, but who can forget the Jingle Bell Rock performance by the Plastics? While it’s only a small part of the movie, this iconic scene has made Mean Girls a recurring holiday rewatch for many fans.
10. Shazam! (2019)
This DC superhero flick is brimming with Christmas spirit, from snowy streets to festive decorations. Yet, at its heart, it’s about family, belonging, and harnessing superpowers—not a sleigh ride or Santa in sight.
Does Christmas Matter?
What ties these movies together isn’t necessarily their focus on Christmas—it’s their ability to use the holiday as a unique and memorable backdrop. Whether it’s action, comedy, or drama, these films add a dose of festive flair while staying true to their larger stories.
So, are they Christmas movies? That’s for you to decide. But one thing’s for sure: they’ll always spark conversation and keep your holiday movie marathons fresh.
What do you think? Drop your favorite “not-so-Christmas” Christmas movie in the comments below! 🎄
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