Thanksgiving is a time to relax, indulge in delicious food, and enjoy the company of loved ones. It’s also the perfect occasion to watch a few heartwarming films that capture the spirit of gratitude, family, and togetherness. Whether you’re curled up with a blanket or hosting a festive movie marathon, here are nine Thanksgiving movies to get you in the holiday mood.
1. Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987)
This classic Thanksgiving film follows the journey of two mismatched strangers—played by John Candy and Steve Martin—who are trying to get home for the holiday. The pair’s misadventures with transportation are laugh-out-loud funny, but it’s the heartwarming friendship that blossoms between them that makes this a perfect pick for Thanksgiving.
Why You Should Watch It: It’s a hilarious, feel-good movie about the importance of kindness and human connection, especially during the holiday season.
2. A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
This animated special is a Thanksgiving tradition for many families. Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the rest of the Peanuts gang as they prepare for a simple but heartwarming Thanksgiving dinner. It’s a great choice for kids and adults alike, with its timeless message of gratitude and friendship.
Why You Should Watch It: It’s short, sweet, and delivers a nostalgic dose of classic animation and good vibes, perfect for a quick Thanksgiving watch.
3. Home for the Holidays (1995)
Directed by Jodie Foster, this comedy-drama stars Holly Hunter as Claudia Larson, who returns home for Thanksgiving after losing her job. The film captures the chaos, love, and tension that can come with family gatherings, making it a relatable and funny take on the holiday.
Why You Should Watch It: If you’re looking for a movie that explores both the humor and challenges of family relationships, this one’s for you.
4. The Blind Side (2009)
While not strictly a Thanksgiving film, The Blind Side is a heartwarming drama that fits perfectly with the spirit of gratitude and family. Based on a true story, it tells the inspiring tale of Michael Oher, a homeless teenager who is taken in by a wealthy family and goes on to become an NFL player.
Why You Should Watch It: It’s an uplifting movie about kindness, generosity, and the importance of family, making it a fitting choice for Thanksgiving.
5. Dutch (1991)
This comedy follows a man named Dutch, played by Ed O’Neill, as he drives his girlfriend’s son, a spoiled teenager, home for Thanksgiving. Their bumpy road trip is filled with laughs, but by the end, they form an unexpected bond that makes this a charming holiday watch.
Why You Should Watch It: It’s a fun, lighthearted film with a message about family, understanding, and making the best of difficult situations.
6. The New World (2005)
If you’re looking for a more historical take on Thanksgiving, The New World is an epic drama directed by Terrence Malick that chronicles the story of Pocahontas and her encounter with English settlers in 1607. While it’s not a typical holiday movie, it offers a beautiful and contemplative reflection on the early history of Thanksgiving.
Why You Should Watch It: For a more serious and visually stunning film about the origins of the Thanksgiving holiday, this one provides a unique perspective.
7. Friendsgiving (2020)
This comedy centers around two women who decide to host a nontraditional Thanksgiving dinner with their quirky group of friends. What follows is a mix of chaotic events, personal revelations, and laughs—perfect for those who enjoy a more unconventional take on the holiday.
Why You Should Watch It: It’s a modern, fun movie that’s all about the chaos of hosting a Thanksgiving dinner and the importance of friendship.
8. You’ve Got Mail (1998)
While You’ve Got Mail isn’t specifically about Thanksgiving, it has the perfect autumnal vibe and takes place around the holiday season. Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks star in this romantic comedy, which features cozy New York City scenes, a charming love story, and a few sweet references to Thanksgiving.
Why You Should Watch It: It’s a delightful, feel-good film with a warm atmosphere, ideal for getting into the holiday spirit.
9. The House of Yes (1997)
For those looking for something a bit quirky, The House of Yes offers a dark comedy set during a Thanksgiving family gathering. The movie focuses on the eccentric Pascal family, particularly the dramatic and strange relationship between the characters, which leads to unpredictable (and often hilarious) situations.
Why You Should Watch It: If you want something unconventional and a little offbeat, this dark comedy will add some edge to your Thanksgiving movie marathon.
