13 Best Thanksgiving Movies: Films to Warm Your Heart
Gobble Up These Flicks: Thanksgiving Movie Delights
by Collectors Abode | Updated November 14, 2024
Thanksgiving Movies are the perfect way to wrap up a day filled with food, family, and tradition. Who doesn’t love a good movie night with family and friends? After enjoying your Thanksgiving Day traditions—like savoring a big turkey dinner or sharing what you’re grateful for—it’s the perfect time to kick back and enjoy some great films.
If you love laughs, heartfelt stories, or animated fun, we’ve got you covered. This list of Thanksgiving movies includes something for everyone, from heartwarming tales to hilarious comedies.
1. Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Planes, Trains & Automobiles is a must-watch on your Thanksgiving Holiday. Imagine trying to get home for Thanksgiving, but everything goes hilariously wrong!
This movie is all about the misadventures of two travelers who become unlikely friends. It’s funny, heartwarming, and reminds us that even the worst travel experiences can bring people together.
2. Home for the Holidays(1995)
Home for the Holidays (1995) perfectly captures the chaos and warmth of family gatherings during Thanksgiving. The film follows Claudia Larson, who returns to her parent’s home after losing her job and experiencing other personal setbacks.
Her family reunion is filled with quirky relatives, humorous conflicts, and heartfelt moments. The movie showcases arguments, laughter, and a lot of love, reflecting the true spirit of a typical Thanksgiving gathering
3. Pieces of April (2003)
Pieces of April tells the story of a young woman trying to make a perfect Thanksgiving dinner for her estranged family. It’s touching and shows that even when things don’t go as planned, the effort and love behind them matter the most.
4. A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving
For a dose of nostalgia, you can’t go wrong with A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. This animated classic is perfect for both kids and adults. It teaches the true meaning of Thanksgiving through the simple and sweet story of Charlie Brown and his friends.
5. Free Birds
Free Birds is a fun, animated adventure where two turkeys travel back in time to change the first Thanksgiving menu. It’s hilarious and perfect for a family movie night.
6. The Oath (2018)
If you would like to watch your Thanksgiving movies with a bit of a twist, The Oath is for you. It is a dark comedy directed by Ike Barinholtz.
It follows a politically divided family trying to survive Thanksgiving together after the government mandates a controversial loyalty oath. This Thanksgiving movie explores political tension and family dynamics, making it a unique holiday watch.
7. Hannah and Her Sisters
Hannah and Her Sisters by Woody Allen is one of those films that has been watched over several Thanksgiving dinners. It’s a rich, emotional story about family relationships, love, and life’s many complexities.
Credit: IMDB
8. Krisha
Krisha is a powerful drama about a woman who returns to her estranged family for Thanksgiving. The film dives deep into the emotional and sometimes painful bonds of family.
It’s intense and incredibly moving, offering a different take on the holiday.
9. The Blind Side
The Blind Side is an inspiring story based on real events. It’s about offering kindness and providing a home to someone who needs it.
The Thanksgiving scenes in this movie are filled with warmth and the true spirit of the holiday—generosity and belonging.
10. What’s Cooking? (2000)
If you love movies that show the true spirit of Thanksgiving, What’s Cooking? is a perfect pick. This heartwarming film follows four different families in Los Angeles, each celebrating Thanksgiving in their own unique way.
This Thanksgiving movie captures the essence of the holiday, showing us that no matter how different we are, the love and joy of family bring us together.
11. Grumpy Old Men
For lighter fare, Grumpy Old Men is a delightful comedy about rival neighbors. It’s full of laughs and has some great Thanksgiving moments that show the softer side of even the grumpiest of men.
12. Dutch (1991 film)
Dutch is a hilarious and heartwarming movie that is perfect for Thanksgiving. The film follows Dutch Dooley, played by Ed O’Neill, as he takes on the task of bringing his girlfriend’s son, Doyle, home for Thanksgiving. Doyle, a snobby prep school student, isn’t too thrilled about the trip, and the two clash from the start.
13. Addams Family Values
Addams Family Values offers a unique and humorous take on Thanksgiving. The Addams family’s quirky Thanksgiving play is a highlight, adding a spooky twist to the holiday spirit.
There’s no better time than Thanksgiving to enjoy these fantastic Thanksgiving movies. In the mood for laughs or something that’ll make you tear up a bit? This list has got you covered! Grab some popcorn, gather your loved ones, and get ready to give thanks for great movies!
Happy Thanksgiving Day