There’s no shortage of heartwarming Thanksgiving films for the whole family to enjoy this holiday season. These endearing holiday movies provide unforgettable settings and stories, perfect for the family to gather around and enjoy together. While Thanksgiving might not be as widely represented in cinema as Christmas or Halloween, 2023 brings a delightful array of films that are both warm and welcoming. From comedies to animated features and coming-of-age tales, these movies often revolve around the holiday, showcasing delicious food, autumnal decorations, and the spirit of gratitude.
Jim Henson’s Turkey Hollow (2015)
Jim Henson’s Turkey Hollow is a perfect Thanksgiving movie, particularly suited for a family movie night. The story unfolds in the small, quaint town of Turkey Hollow, where the Emmerson family visits Aunt Cly (portrayed by Mary Steenburgen). With no internet to distract them, children Tim and Emma set out to solve the mystery of the “Howling Hoodoo.”
Why It’s Perfect For Thanksgiving
Turkey Hollow stands out from typical holiday TV movies with its unique blend of humor and heart. The film’s slapstick comedy caters to younger viewers, while adults will appreciate the wittier aspects. The highlight is the lifelike puppetry, inspired by Jim Henson’s work, which adds a magical touch to the storytelling. The film’s core message, encouraging gratitude for our differences, is in perfect harmony with the spirit of Thanksgiving. Available on Disney+, this film is a great choice for a family movie night during the holiday season.
Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
Fantastic Mr. Fox, directed by Wes Anderson and adapted from Roald Dahl’s classic story, captures the essence of Thanksgiving in a unique way. The film, in vibrant stop-motion animation, follows the story of Mr. Fox (voiced by George Clooney), torn between his natural instincts and moral responsibilities.
Why It’s Perfect For Thanksgiving
The film’s autumnal color palette and a grand feast scene make it an ideal Thanksgiving watch. The scene where Mr. Fox shares a bountiful meal with his family and friends mirrors the traditional Thanksgiving dinner, making it particularly relatable during the holiday. Additionally, Mr. Fox’s internal struggle offers a narrative depth that resonates with viewers of all ages. Available for streaming on Max, this film is not only a visual treat but also provides meaningful lessons, making it a superb choice for Thanksgiving family entertainment.
Dutch (1991)
Dutch, penned by the legendary John Hughes, stands out as a Thanksgiving film that brings families together. The story revolves around Dutch (Ed O’Neill), who undertakes a road trip to bring his girlfriend’s aloof son Doyle (Ethan Embry) home from prep school for Thanksgiving. Initially at odds, their journey sees them developing a mutual understanding and respect.
Why It’s Perfect For Thanksgiving
The film has gained a cult following for its humorous sequences and the remarkable chemistry between O’Neill and Embry, alongside its uplifting message. A poignant moment occurs when Dutch takes Doyle to a soup kitchen, teaching him to appreciate his privileges, a core Thanksgiving theme. With its mix of witty one-liners and heartwarming expressions of gratitude, “Dutch” is an excellent film to enjoy during the Thanksgiving season. It is available for streaming on Max, making it a convenient choice for holiday viewing.
You’ve Got Mail (1998)
You’ve Got Mail, directed by Nora Ephron, is a quintessential ’90s romantic comedy that doubles as a delightful Thanksgiving film. Starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan as Joe Fox and Kathleen Kelly, two bookstore owners who clash in real life but unknowingly fall in love online, the film features memorable Thanksgiving scenes that add to its charm.
Why It’s Perfect For Thanksgiving
The film captures the essence of Thanksgiving, not just through its storyline but also through its depiction of the holiday’s hustle and bustle. A standout scene involves a comedic Thanksgiving grocery shopping sequence that ends with a memorable quote, showcasing a lighter, humorous side of the holiday. The chemistry between Hanks and Ryan, combined with the film’s depiction of Thanksgiving, makes it a heartwarming choice for the holiday. “You’ve Got Mail” continues to enchant audiences over two decades later and is available for streaming on Tubi.
Pieces of April (2003)
Pieces of April, directed by Peter Hedges, is an underrated gem perfect for Thanksgiving viewing. The film stars Katie Holmes as April Burns, who invites her estranged family to her modest apartment for Thanksgiving. The narrative weaves between April’s dinner preparations and her family’s journey to her home, revealing their complex relationships.
Why It’s Perfect For Thanksgiving
This film stands out for its authentic portrayal of a family striving to reconnect. It skillfully balances comedy and drama, resonating with viewers through its well-paced storyline and engaging performances. While it may not be suitable for very young audiences, its blend of humor and heartfelt moments makes it a relatable and enjoyable film for Thanksgiving. The movie’s conclusion, brimming with genuine expressions of gratitude, encapsulates the spirit of the holiday. “Pieces of April” is available for streaming on Max, offering families a touching and humorous take on Thanksgiving.
Soul Food (1997)
Soul Food, written and directed by George Tillman Jr., is a film that beautifully captures the essence of family gatherings and the power of food in bringing people together. Centered around the Joseph family, the movie showcases their tradition of bonding over sumptuous Sunday dinners, including a memorable Thanksgiving sequence.
Why It’s Perfect For Thanksgiving
The film is a heartwarming portrayal of the importance of family, acceptance, and gratitude. The scenes featuring Southern-inspired cuisine are not only visually appealing but also symbolize the warmth and love shared among family members. The story’s focus on dealing with life’s challenges and supporting each other through tough times makes it particularly relevant for Thanksgiving. With its blend of humor, drama, and a homely atmosphere, “Soul Food” offers all the right elements for a Thanksgiving movie. It is available for streaming on DirecTV, providing an authentic and touching family viewing experience for the holiday.
Home for the Holidays (1995)
Home for the Holidays, directed by Jodie Foster, is a poignant Thanksgiving film that resonates with the complexities of family dynamics. The story follows Claudia Larson (Holly Hunter), a single mother who, after losing her job, returns to her family in Baltimore for Thanksgiving. The family reunion opens old wounds but also creates opportunities for healing and understanding.
Why It’s Perfect For Thanksgiving
The film is celebrated for its balance of humor and drama, encapsulating the real experiences of many family gatherings. Its blend of dark humor and emotional depth mirrors the highs and lows of family interactions during holidays. The relatable storyline and characters make it a compelling watch for Thanksgiving, reflecting the challenges and joys of family life. “Home for the Holidays” is available for streaming on Fubo, offering a genuine and entertaining depiction of a family Thanksgiving gathering.
Addams Family Values (1993)
Addams Family Values, while not a conventional Thanksgiving film, offers a unique perspective on the holiday. The movie’s memorable scene is the satirical Thanksgiving play at a summer camp, led by the iconic Wednesday Addams. This film is a must-watch for families seeking a different angle on Thanksgiving traditions.
Why It’s Perfect For Thanksgiving
The film’s standout feature is Joan Cusack’s performance as Uncle Fester’s scheming girlfriend, Debbie. However, it’s the interplay between Gary and Wednesday, particularly during the Thanksgiving play, that strikes a chord with the holiday. Wednesday’s portrayal of Pocahontas and her subsequent rebellion against the narrative offers a critical view of the historical treatment of indigenous people by European settlers. Available on Paramount+, this film presents a humorous yet thought-provoking addition to Thanksgiving movie lists.
Planes, Trains & Automobiles (1987)
Planes, Trains & Automobiles, another classic by John Hughes, is a Thanksgiving staple. The film chronicles the chaotic yet heartwarming journey of Neal (Steve Martin) and Del (John Candy), two strangers who, after a series of travel mishaps, end up sharing a cross-country road trip to reach Neal’s home in time for Thanksgiving. Their initial annoyance with each other gradually transforms into a deep, respectful friendship.
Why It’s Perfect For Thanksgiving
The film’s charm lies in the exceptional comedic chemistry between Martin and Candy. While it’s rated R and contains more adult material, the humor, drama, and underlying message resonate across all ages. It’s a story about the unlikely friendship that develops through shared experiences, epitomized in the movie’s touching final scene. This film, perfect for both laughs and heartfelt moments, is available on Paramount+ and is a must-watch for a Thanksgiving family movie night.
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving is as essential to the holiday as its Christmas counterpart. This beloved Peanuts special features Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Linus, Pig Pen, and others as they host an impromptu Thanksgiving feast. The cartoon not only entertains but also won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Children’s Special.
Why It’s Perfect For Thanksgiving
The film offers a delightful blend of nostalgia and educational value. It captures the spirit of Thanksgiving through the eyes of Charlie Brown and his friends as they prepare their own unique feast. Additionally, it includes a historical overview of the first Thanksgiving in 1621, making it an educational and enjoyable watch for younger viewers. The special’s message about the importance of gratitude and celebrating with loved ones makes it an ideal choice for family viewing during the holiday season. “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” is available for streaming on Apple TV+, providing easy access to this timeless Thanksgiving classic.
