When the kids are tucked away in bed, and the holiday frenzy subsides, it’s time for some grown-up relaxation. Forget the classic family-friendly flicks; this list of Christmas movies caters specifically to adults, offering a unique and often darker take on the holiday season. From killer snowmen to Christmas demons, these films provide a much-needed break from the traditional holiday cheer. Pour yourself a festive drink and settle in for a movie night that’s decidedly adult.
Jack Frost
Forget Frosty; this 1997 cult classic features Jack Frost, a serial killer reincarnated as a vengeful snowman. Filled with dark humor and gore, it’s a horror-comedy best enjoyed without the little ones. This film is definitely not for the faint of heart.
Happiest Season
This 2020 holiday rom-com offers a modern twist on holiday traditions. Abby plans to propose to her girlfriend Harper during a family gathering, but discovers Harper hasn’t come out to her conservative parents. Happiest Season explores themes of love, acceptance, and the challenges of being true to oneself.
The Holdovers
Set in the 1970s, this 2023 film follows a grumpy prep school teacher (Paul Giamatti) forced to supervise students during Christmas break. He forms unexpected bonds with a cook (Da’Vine Joy Randolph in an Oscar-nominated performance) and a mischievous student. The Holdovers is a heartwarming story about connection and finding solace in unexpected places.
Bad Santa
This 2003 dark comedy starring Billy Bob Thornton as a drunken mall Santa plotting a heist is a hilarious antidote to saccharine holiday cheer. Willie’s cynical antics and unexpected encounters make Bad Santa a must-watch for those who appreciate raunchy humor. A sequel was released in 2016.
Black Christmas
This 1974 slasher film set during Christmas break follows sorority sisters terrorized by a mysterious caller and a string of murders. Considered a horror classic, Black Christmas spawned remakes in 2006 and 2019, each offering its own take on the chilling tale.
A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas
The stoner duo returns in this 2011 Christmas adventure. Harold and Kumar reunite after years apart and find themselves in a series of hilarious mishaps. Filled with outrageous humor and heartwarming moments, A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas is a must-watch for fans of the franchise.
Gremlins
This 1984 classic subverts holiday tropes with a story of adorable creatures that transform into destructive monsters. Gremlins offers a blend of horror, comedy, and holiday cheer, making it a unique and entertaining watch. It also features a particularly dark take on the Santa Claus myth.
The Night Before
Three lifelong friends (Seth Rogen, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Anthony Mackie) embark on one last epic night of partying before embracing adult responsibilities in this 2015 comedy. The Night Before is filled with hilarious antics and celebrity cameos, making it a perfect choice for a laughter-filled evening.
Die Hard
This 1988 action classic takes place on Christmas Eve as John McClane (Bruce Willis) faces terrorists in a Los Angeles skyscraper. While the debate continues on whether it’s a Christmas movie, Die Hard remains a thrilling and iconic film perfect for the holidays.
Office Christmas Party
This 2016 comedy boasts an ensemble cast including Kate McKinnon, Jennifer Aniston, and Jason Bateman. Employees at a tech company throw a wild Christmas party to impress a client and potentially save their jobs. Office Christmas Party is a raucous and hilarious look at workplace dynamics during the holidays.
Trading Places
A wealthy executive (Dan Aykroyd) and a street hustler (Eddie Murphy) have their lives swapped in this 1983 comedy. Trading Places explores themes of class and social status with humor and a holiday twist. Be aware that some of the humor may be considered dated by today’s standards.
A Bad Moms Christmas
The “Bad Moms” are back in this 2017 sequel, this time dealing with the stress of their own mothers visiting for Christmas. Starring Mila Kunis, Kathryn Hahn, and Kristen Bell, A Bad Moms Christmas is a relatable and hilarious take on holiday family dynamics.
Violent Night
Santa Claus (David Harbour) becomes an action hero in this 2022 film when he must rescue a wealthy family from mercenaries on Christmas Eve. Violent Night delivers a unique blend of holiday spirit and action-packed thrills.
Krampus
This 2015 horror film explores the darker side of Christmas folklore. A dysfunctional family’s lack of holiday spirit summons Krampus, a demonic creature who punishes the naughty. Krampus offers a chilling and darkly comedic take on the holidays.
The Lodge
A winter getaway turns sinister in this 2019 horror thriller. Two children become trapped in a remote cabin with their soon-to-be stepmother, whose disturbing past resurfaces, creating a terrifying holiday experience. The Lodge is a suspenseful and atmospheric film that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
