Diverse Christmas Films That Have Conservatives Canceling the Holidays

The holiday film landscape has changed significantly as major networks and streaming services embrace more inclusive storytelling. Traditional depictions of the season are frequently replaced by narratives featuring diverse casts and queer characters as well as progressive social themes. These changes have prompted strong reactions from some audiences who prefer conventional holiday archetypes and traditional family structures. Many viewers celebrate the increased visibility for marginalized groups while others argue that these updates distance the genre from its historical roots. This collection explores the movies that are redefining festive cinema for a modern and diverse era.

‘The Holiday Sitter’ (2022)

This Hallmark Channel original features a lead romantic pairing between two men which marked a major milestone for the network. The story follows a workaholic who finds himself babysitting his niece and nephew during the holidays where he meets a handsome neighbor. The film focuses on the developing bond between the two leads as they navigate family responsibilities and festive traditions together. Many viewers celebrated the inclusive storytelling while some traditionalists expressed frustration over the departure from classic network formulas. It remains a prominent example of the recent shift toward more diverse representation in seasonal television movies.

‘Happiest Season’ (2020)

Abby plans to propose to her girlfriend Harper at a family holiday party until she discovers that Harper has not yet come out to her conservative parents. The two women must navigate a web of secrets and lies while trying to survive the festive weekend. This film explores the pressure of societal expectations and the difficulty of living authentically during the holidays. It sparked significant discussion online about the representation of queer relationships in mainstream cinema. The cast includes Kristen Stewart and Mackenzie Davis who bring emotional depth to this modern holiday tale.

‘Single All the Way’ (2021)

Peter convinces his best friend Nick to join him for the holidays and pretend that they are in a relationship to avoid family judgment about his single status. His mother sets him up on a blind date with a handsome fitness trainer which complicates the original plan. The movie follows the humorous and heartfelt journey of the two friends as they realize their true feelings for each other. This production was one of the first major holiday romantic comedies from a streaming service to center on a gay romance. It features a supportive family environment that contrasts with traditional tropes of coming out.

‘The Christmas House’ (2020)

This Hallmark movie follows a family that comes together to recreate a beloved holiday tradition while dealing with personal challenges. One of the central storylines involves a married gay couple who are waiting for news about an adoption. The inclusion of this plot point was a landmark moment for a network that had previously focused on heterosexual romances. Many fans appreciated the natural integration of the couple into the broader family dynamic. The film helped pave the way for more diverse stories within the popular Hallmark holiday lineup.

‘The Christmas Setup’ (2020)

Hugo returns to his hometown for the holidays where his mother plays matchmaker by introducing him to his high school crush. The movie centers on the romantic connection between two men which was a first for the Lifetime network. It highlights the importance of community and family support for queer individuals during the festive season. The lead actors are a real life couple which added a layer of authenticity to the production. This film received praise for its warm tone and its commitment to representation in the holiday rom com genre.

‘Under the Christmas Tree’ (2021)

A holiday tree scout finds the perfect specimen in a backyard belonging to a woman who is not willing to part with it. The two women clash over the tree before developing a romantic attraction to one another. This story serves as one of the few holiday films focused on a lesbian relationship. It emphasizes themes of professional ambition and personal connection within a festive setting. The movie was part of a larger effort by networks to broaden their audience by including diverse romantic leads.

‘Black Christmas’ (2019)

This modern remake of a classic horror film introduces a strong feminist perspective to the traditional slasher narrative. A group of sorority sisters is targeted by a mysterious stalker during their winter break but they decide to fight back instead of becoming victims. The story tackles themes of campus culture and institutional power while maintaining a festive backdrop. Some viewers felt the social commentary was too overt while others praised the updated approach to the genre. It represents a significant departure from the original source material through its focus on female empowerment.

‘The Bitch Who Stole Christmas’ (2021)

A workaholic fashion journalist is sent to a small town to dig up a story and finds herself caught in a cutthroat winter competition. The cast features numerous drag queens from the popular reality show RuPaul’s Drag Race. This film parodies the common tropes found in television holiday movies while adding a colorful and campy aesthetic. It provides a unique and diverse take on seasonal traditions through the lens of drag culture. The production was noted for its humor and its willingness to subvert traditional holiday expectations.

‘Christmas at the Ranch’ (2021)

An urban professional returns to her family ranch to help save it from financial ruin and falls in love with a female ranch hand. The movie focuses on the connection between the two women as they work together to preserve the property. It combines elements of the traditional western genre with a queer romance. The scenic backdrop and the focus on rural life provide a familiar holiday feel while introducing a diverse central relationship. This film is part of a growing trend of independent holiday movies that prioritize inclusive casting.

‘Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey’ (2020)

An eccentric toymaker finds new hope when his bright young granddaughter appears on his doorstep years after he was betrayed by his apprentice. This musical fantasy features a predominantly Black cast and showcases incredible production design and original songs. The story emphasizes the power of invention and the importance of family legacy. It has been celebrated for bringing a fresh perspective to the holiday fantasy genre which has historically lacked diversity. The film offers a visual spectacle that appeals to audiences of all ages.

‘A Sugar & Spice Holiday’ (2020)

An architect returns to her hometown for Christmas and enters a local baking competition to honor her late grandmother. The film centers on a Chinese American family and incorporates specific cultural traditions into the festive celebrations. It explores the pressure of balancing professional success with family expectations. This was a significant release for Lifetime as it was their first holiday movie featuring an Asian American lead. The production was praised for its authentic portrayal of cultural heritage within a traditional holiday framework.

‘Candy Cane Lane’ (2023)

A man makes a deal with a mischievous elf to help him win his neighborhood house decorating contest but soon regrets the decision. The story follows a Black family as they deal with the magical consequences of the deal and work together to save Christmas. It blends traditional holiday magic with a focus on family unity and community spirit. The film features high energy performances and creative special effects that modernize the holiday adventure format. It highlights a diverse household navigating the typical stresses and joys of the season.

‘Dashing Through the Snow’ (2023)

A social worker who has lost his holiday spirit takes his daughter with him on a ride along on Christmas Eve. They encounter a mysterious man who claims to be Santa Claus and end up on a chaotic adventure. The movie features a Black lead and explores themes of reconciliation and the magic of the holidays. It offers a contemporary take on the classic trope of a cynical adult rediscovering their faith in the season. The production provides a mix of comedy and heart that appeals to a diverse audience.

‘Last Christmas’ (2019)

A young woman working as a Christmas elf in London experiences a series of bad luck until she meets a mysterious man who changes her perspective. The film features a diverse cast including actors of Asian and European descent. It deals with serious themes such as illness and immigration while maintaining a festive atmosphere. The story uses the music of George Michael to underscore the emotional journey of the main character. Some viewers found the narrative twists unexpected while others appreciated the more grounded approach to a holiday romance.

‘Let It Snow’ (2019)

A massive snowstorm hits a small town on Christmas Eve which brings together a group of high school seniors. The ensemble cast includes diverse characters who navigate various romantic and personal challenges. One of the storylines features a budding romance between two young women. The film captures the feeling of teenage angst and excitement during the holiday season. It has been noted for its inclusive representation and its modern take on the young adult holiday genre.

‘A New Orleans Noel’ (2022)

Two architects who were rivals in college are forced to work together on a project for a prominent family in New Orleans. The film features a primarily Black cast and highlights the unique holiday traditions of the city. It focuses on the developing relationship between the two leads as they rediscover the magic of the season. The inclusion of music and local culture adds a distinct flavor to the traditional holiday romance. This production was praised for its charming performances and its celebration of diverse communities.

‘Merry Liddle Christmas’ (2019)

A successful tech entrepreneur tries to host the perfect holiday for her family in her new home but things quickly descend into chaos. The story centers on a Black family and the relatable stresses of hosting holiday gatherings. It was successful enough to spawn several sequels that continue the story of the main characters. The film focuses on the importance of family bonds over the pursuit of perfection. It serves as a popular example of the growing number of holiday movies featuring Black leads.

‘Holiday Rush’ (2019)

A popular radio DJ loses his job right before the holidays and must move his spoiled children into a smaller house. The family has to learn how to appreciate what they have rather than focusing on material gifts. This film features a Black family navigating financial hardship and the true meaning of the season. It balances comedic moments with heartfelt lessons about resilience and love. The production offers a refreshing look at holiday challenges through a diverse lens.

‘Christmas With You’ (2022)

A pop star seeking inspiration for a holiday hit travels to a small town to meet a young fan. She ends up connecting with the fan’s father and discovers the joy of a simpler life. The movie features a Latinx lead and incorporates cultural elements such as traditional food and music. It highlights the importance of family and heritage during the holiday season. The film was part of a push to include more Latinx representation in the seasonal rom com market.

‘Spirited’ (2022)

This modern musical retelling of a classic holiday tale focuses on the perspective of the ghosts. It stars a diverse cast and uses contemporary humor to explore themes of redemption and human nature. The movie challenges the traditional idea that people can be easily categorized as good or bad. Its high energy musical numbers and meta humor provide a fresh take on a familiar story. The production was noted for its large budget and its attempt to modernize a holiday staple.

‘Genie’ (2023)

A man whose life is falling apart accidentally summons a genie who helps him try to win back his family before Christmas. The film features a diverse lead cast and puts a magical twist on the traditional holiday redemption story. It explores themes of work life balance and the value of personal relationships. The humor and heart of the story are aimed at a wide audience looking for modern holiday entertainment. It represents a shift toward more inclusive casting in mainstream holiday comedies.

‘The Best Man Holiday’ (2013)

A group of college friends reunites for the holidays after many years apart which leads to the revival of old rivalries and romances. The film features an acclaimed Black ensemble cast and deals with deep themes of friendship and loss. It balances the festive setting with serious emotional drama. The movie was a significant commercial success and showed the high demand for holiday stories featuring diverse casts. It remains a beloved entry in the genre for its realistic portrayal of adult friendships.

‘Almost Christmas’ (2016)

A patriarch asks his family for one gift which is to get along for five days during the holiday season. The story follows a Black family as they navigate their differences and honor the memory of their mother. It features a mix of broad comedy and emotional moments that resonate with many viewers. The film highlights the complexities of family dynamics and the importance of coming together. It is a prominent example of a holiday movie that centers on the Black experience.

‘This Christmas’ (2007)

The members of a family return home for the holidays for the first time in years and bring plenty of secrets with them. This film features a talented Black cast and explores the various struggles and triumphs of each sibling. It emphasizes the strength of family ties despite the challenges that life brings. The soundtrack and the festive atmosphere make it a classic choice for seasonal viewing. It helped establish a market for diverse family dramas set during the holidays.

‘A Madea Christmas’ (2013)

A woman is coaxed into helping her niece by traveling to a small town for the holidays where she encounters various local characters. The film features Tyler Perry’s iconic character and uses humor to address themes of family and racial dynamics. It combines slapstick comedy with a message about the true spirit of Christmas. The production was a hit with audiences who enjoy the specific style of the Madea franchise. It provides a unique perspective on the holiday season through a well known comedic lens.

‘Black Nativity’ (2013)

A streetwise teen from Baltimore travels to New York City to spend the holidays with his estranged relatives. This musical drama features a stellar Black cast and uses song and dance to tell a story of faith and reconciliation. It is based on a famous play and brings a soulful energy to the traditional nativity story. The film explores the challenges of urban life and the power of family heritage. It offers a culturally rich alternative to standard holiday narratives.

‘Hot Frosty’ (2024)

A widow magically brings a handsome snowman to life and helps him navigate the world before he melts. The movie features a diverse supporting cast and uses a lighthearted and slightly absurd premise to explore grief and new beginnings. It follows the recent trend of streaming services producing holiday movies with unconventional plots. The film focuses on the emotional journey of the main character as she finds joy again. It has been discussed for its playful approach to holiday tropes.

‘The Merry Gentlemen’ (2024)

A woman decides to stage an all male Christmas themed revue to save her parents’ small town performing venue. The film features a diverse cast of performers and leans into the humor of the situation. It explores themes of community and the lengths people will go to support their loved ones. This production represents a more adult oriented take on the holiday movie genre. It has been noted for its unique premise and its focus on performance art.

‘Our Christmas Journey’ (2021)

A single mother navigates the challenges of the holiday season while caring for her teenage son who has autism. The film was praised for its authentic representation of neurodiversity and the specific experiences of caregivers. It features a Black family and highlights the importance of finding a community that understands their journey. The story focuses on growth and the discovery of new possibilities for the future. It serves as an important step toward more inclusive storytelling concerning disability.

‘The Christmas Chronicles: Part Two’ (2020)

A teenage girl is reunited with Santa Claus when a mysterious troublemaker threatens to destroy the North Pole and end Christmas forever. The sequel features a more diverse cast of human characters and mythological figures compared to the first film. It expands the lore of the holiday universe with a modern and inclusive aesthetic. The production uses high quality visual effects to create a magical world for a global audience. It emphasizes the idea that the holiday spirit belongs to everyone.

‘Falling for Christmas’ (2022)

A spoiled heiress loses her memory in a skiing accident and is taken in by a handsome lodge owner and his daughter. The film features a diverse supporting cast and marked the return of a major star to the holiday genre. It follows a traditional plot structure while incorporating modern sensibilities and humor. The movie was a significant hit for Netflix and showed the enduring popularity of the holiday rom com format. It highlights the theme of finding happiness in a simpler way of life.

‘A Jenkins Family Christmas’ (2021)

Two sisters try to carry on their family’s holiday traditions after the death of their father which leads to conflict and comedy. The movie features a Black cast and explores how different family members process grief during the holidays. It emphasizes the resilience of family bonds and the necessity of moving forward together. The story offers a realistic look at the tensions that can arise during festive gatherings. It adds to the growing library of holiday films focused on diverse family experiences.

‘Reporting for Christmas’ (2023)

A serious journalist is assigned a fluff piece about a toy factory and finds herself falling for the local community and a handsome toymaker. The film includes diverse characters in its depiction of a small town holiday environment. It explores the conflict between career ambitions and personal fulfillment. The production follows the familiar beats of a holiday romance while reflecting contemporary social dynamics. It is an example of the modern television movie approach to the holiday season.

‘The Noel Diary’ (2022)

An author returning home to settle his mother’s estate discovers a diary that holds secrets about his past and a mysterious woman. The film features a diverse cast and deals with complex emotional themes like adoption and family reconciliation. It offers a more serious and reflective tone than many other holiday releases. The story highlights the power of the past to shape the future. It has been praised for its strong performances and its mature narrative.

‘Baking Spirits Bright’ (2021)

A woman tries to save her family’s fruitcake business by working with a handsome marketing executive who has a very different vision. The film features a diverse lead and explores the challenges of balancing tradition with modern business practices. It centers on the importance of staying true to one’s roots while embracing change. The chemistry between the leads and the festive setting provide a classic holiday movie experience. This production reflects the ongoing commitment to diversity in seasonal programming.

Please share your thoughts on these modern holiday classics in the comments.