The Best Films to Watch Around Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is here, and it’s the perfect time to settle in with some amazing movies that capture the vibe of the season. Today we are taking a look at films that bring laughter, tears, suspense, and maybe even a little bit of fear to your screen. This list includes heartfelt family stories to side-splitting comedies and even a holiday horror flick, and the lineup has something for every mood. Let’s dive into some of the best films to watch during Thanksgiving and why they’re the perfect pick for this cozy time of year.

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1. Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987)

Stars: Steve Martin, John Candy

This comedy classic follows Neal Page (Steve Martin), a high-strung advertising executive, as he tries to get home to Chicago for Thanksgiving. His journey is anything but smooth when he’s forced to team up with Del Griffith (John Candy), an overly chatty, but well-meaning shower curtain ring salesman. Their misadventures, from delayed flights to sharing a tiny motel room, are both hilarious and heartwarming, reminding us of the importance of kindness and understanding during the holidays.

2. Stepmom (1998)

Stars: Julia Roberts, Susan Sarandon, Ed Harris

Stepmom is an emotional drama explores family dynamics during a time of transition. Isabel (Julia Roberts) is trying to connect with her fiancé’s children while facing resistance from their mother, Jackie (Susan Sarandon). As tensions rise, the two women find unexpected ways to work together. This film is one of the best to watch for Thanksgiving, as a good portion of the movie take place during the fall. The film’s theme focuses on family, forgiveness, and the complicated bonds that bring people together.

3. Thanksgiving (2023)

Stars: Patrick Dempsey, Addison Rae

For horror fans, Eli Roth’s Thanksgiving delivers chills and thrills with a holiday twist. Set in a small town that’s hosting its annual Thanksgiving parade, the peaceful celebration turns into a nightmare when a masked killer wreaks havoc. The film is currently streaming on Netflix and blends dark humor with suspense, making it a great pick for those who like their Thanksgiving a little spicier than sweet.

4. Home for the Holidays (1995)

Stars: Holly Hunter, Robert Downey Jr., Anne Bancroft

When Claudia (Holly Hunter) heads home for Thanksgiving after losing her job, she’s forced to navigate her quirky and often dysfunctional family. With hilarious and emotional moments, Home for the Holidays captures the highs and lows of family gatherings. This is one of the best films to watch near Thansgiving because it is relatable, funny, and heartwarming—a perfect movie to watch with loved ones.

5. The Blind Side (2009)

Stars: Sandra Bullock, Quinton Aaron, Tim McGraw

Based on a true story, this film follows Leigh Anne Tuohy (Sandra Bullock), a strong-willed woman who takes in Michael Oher (Quinton Aaron), a homeless teen with a talent for football. The Blind Side is set during the fall season, the film is about kindness, family, and how opening your heart can change lives. It’s a feel-good pick that pairs beautifully with the themes of Thanksgiving.

6. The Big Chill (1983)

Stars: Glenn Close, Kevin Kline, Jeff Goldblum

This drama centers around a group of college friends who reunite for a weekend after the death of one of their own. While not directly about Thanksgiving, the The Big Chill has themes of reflection, friendship, and rekindling old bonds feel right for the season. The soundtrack and warm autumnal tones make it a great choice for a cozy movie night.

7. Pieces of April (2003)

Stars: Katie Holmes, Patricia Clarkson, Derek Luke

In Pieces of April, a young woman named April (Katie Holmes) is a black sheep trying to impress her estranged family by hosting Thanksgiving dinner in her small New York apartment. With her oven failing and tension running high, this indie comedy-drama balances humor and heart as it highlights the importance of family—even when things don’t go perfectly.

8. Black Friday (2021)

Starring: Devon Sawa, Bruce Campbell, and Michael Jai White

This horror-comedy takes the chaos of Black Friday shopping to a whole new level. Employees at a toy store brace for the annual shopping madness, but things take a horrifying turn when shoppers transform into zombie-like creatures after being infected by a mysterious parasite. The crew must band together to survive the night and save themselves from the deadly horde. With its mix of humor, scares, and a satirical take on consumer culture, Black Friday is a quirky, thrilling pick for those who like their holiday movies with a dark twist.

9. Friendsgiving (2020)

Starring: Malin Åkerman, Kat Dennings, and Aisha Tyler

This hilarious comedy centers on two friends, Molly and Abby, who decide to host a low-key Thanksgiving together after life throws some unexpected curveballs their way. However, things quickly spiral out of control when a chaotic mix of friends, exes, and eccentric guests show up, turning their Friendsgiving into a wildly unpredictable night. Friendsgiving captures the messy, heartfelt side of celebrating with chosen family instead of traditional gatherings. It’s a perfect watch for anyone who loves a fun, modern twist on Thanksgiving traditions.

10. Knives Out (2019)

Starring: Daniel Craig, Chris Evans, and Ana de Armas

Knives Out is a fun murder mystery is the ultimate family drama with a darkly comedic twist. After the patriarch of the wealthy Thrombey family dies under mysterious circumstances, Detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) is brought in to investigate. The story unfolds like a game of Clue as secrets, lies, and betrayals within the family bubble to the surface. Set in a sprawling mansion during the fall, Knives Out perfectly blends cozy autumn vibes with sharp storytelling. It’s a brilliant film choice for Thanksgiving if you’re in the mood for a suspenseful, clever whodunit.