20 Classic Thanksgiving Movies to Watch With the Whole Family This Year

Gathering around the television after a large meal is a time-honored tradition for many households during the holiday season. The best Thanksgiving films capture the essence of gratitude while acknowledging the chaotic nature of family reunions. This list covers a variety of genres ranging from animated specials to heartwarming dramas that appeal to all ages. These movies offer the perfect backdrop for digesting turkey and enjoying quality time with loved ones.

‘A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving’ (1973)

Charlie Brown attempts to host a holiday feast after Peppermint Patty invites herself and her friends over for dinner. The beloved Peanuts gang improvises a meal consisting of toast and popcorn when Snoopy gets involved in the preparations. Viewers watch as the characters learn the true meaning of gratitude and friendship amidst the chaotic kitchen antics. This animated television special has remained a broadcast staple for decades due to its charm and simplicity.

‘Planes, Trains and Automobiles’ (1987)

Neal Page struggles to travel home to Chicago for Thanksgiving while stuck with an obnoxious shower curtain ring salesman named Del Griffith. The unlikely duo encounters numerous transportation disasters including canceled flights and broken trains. Director John Hughes balances slapstick comedy with moments of genuine emotional depth between the two leads. It highlights the stress of holiday travel and the importance of compassion for strangers.

‘Miracle on 34th Street’ (1947)

The story begins at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade where an old man named Kris Kringle steps in to replace an intoxicated Santa Claus. A young lawyer decides to defend Kris in court when the man claims to be the real Santa. This film explores the impact of faith and wonder on a cynical world. The opening scenes firmly establish it as an essential watch for the start of the holiday season.

‘Home for the Holidays’ (1995)

Claudia Larson faces a series of unfortunate events before flying home to spend Thanksgiving with her eccentric family. The narrative captures the relatable tension and humor that arises when diverse personalities gather under one roof. An all-star cast brings the dysfunctional dynamic to life with sharp dialogue and authentic situations. It serves as a reminder that family bonds endure even through the most stressful gatherings.

‘Dutch’ (1991)

A working-class man named Dutch volunteers to drive his girlfriend’s snobbish son home from prep school for the holidays. The road trip becomes a series of mishaps that forces the two adversarial characters to rely on each other. Their journey moves from hostility to a mutual respect as they navigate various obstacles. Screenwriter John Hughes delivers another script focused on cross-generational bonding during the Thanksgiving season.

‘Son in Law’ (1993)

A college student brings her eccentric resident advisor named Crawl home to her family farm for Thanksgiving break. The rural family struggles to accept the unconventional lifestyle and fashion choices of their guest. Crawl eventually wins them over with his genuine kindness and ability to adapt to farm life. This comedy explores themes of acceptance and the clash between city and country cultures.

‘Addams Family Values’ (1993)

Wednesday and Pugsley are sent to a summer camp where they are forced to participate in a historically inaccurate Thanksgiving play. The siblings stage a coup against the camp counselors and rewrite the narrative during the performance. This film provides a darker and more satirical take on the traditional holiday spirit. The Thanksgiving sequence remains one of the most memorable and quoted scenes in the franchise.

‘Little Women’ (1994)

The March sisters navigate the transition from childhood to womanhood while their father is away serving in the Civil War. Several key scenes revolve around charitable acts and family meals during the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons. The film emphasizes the importance of generosity and holding loved ones close during difficult times. Its cozy atmosphere and period setting make it a comforting choice for holiday viewing.

‘The Blind Side’ (2009)

The Tuohy family takes in a homeless teenager named Michael Oher and helps him realize his potential as a football player. A pivotal scene involves the family sitting together at the dining table for a Thanksgiving meal instead of eating in front of the television. The story highlights the impact of kindness and the definition of chosen family. It is an uplifting drama based on true events that resonates with the spirit of giving.

‘Free Birds’ (2013)

Two turkeys from opposite sides of the tracks must team up to travel back in time to the first Thanksgiving. Their mission is to remove turkeys from the holiday menu entirely and change history. This animated adventure provides a humorous and fast-paced story suitable for younger viewers. The film offers a unique perspective on the holiday traditions through the eyes of the birds.

‘Fantastic Mr. Fox’ (2009)

Mr. Fox breaks a promise to his wife and raids the farms of three mean local farmers. The resulting conflict forces the animal community to band together and celebrate their survival with a grand feast. Director Wes Anderson utilizes stop-motion animation to create a visually distinct world full of autumn colors. The final toast to survival and friendship fits perfectly with Thanksgiving themes.

‘Rocky’ (1976)

Rocky Balboa prepares for a world heavyweight championship fight while courting a shy woman named Adrian. The couple shares their first date at an ice skating rink on Thanksgiving Day. This underdog story is set against the backdrop of a gritty Philadelphia winter. The film celebrates resilience and the importance of having someone in your corner.

‘Grumpy Old Men’ (1993)

Two feuding neighbors have their rivalry reignited when a new female neighbor moves across the street. Their lifelong competition escalates through the holiday season and involves a memorable Thanksgiving dinner. The film showcases the chemistry between the leads and finds humor in aging and stubbornness. It is a lighthearted comedy about forgiveness and the possibility of new beginnings.

‘Tower Heist’ (2011)

A group of building staff members plan a robbery to reclaim their pensions from a wealthy businessman living in the penthouse. The heist takes place during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to use the noise and crowds as cover. The action comedy utilizes the iconic parade balloons and floats as key plot elements. It offers a fun and high-stakes alternative to standard family dramas.

‘Paul Blart: Mall Cop’ (2009)

A mild-mannered security guard must save the day when criminals take over his mall on Black Friday. The story takes place in the immediate aftermath of Thanksgiving as holiday shoppers crowd the building. Paul attempts to protect his daughter and prove his worth despite being underestimated. It is a slapstick comedy that families can enjoy for its physical humor and hero journey.

‘You’ve Got Mail’ (1998)

Two business rivals unknowingly fall in love through anonymous emails while their professional lives collide. A significant scene features the protagonist navigating the grocery store specifically during the Thanksgiving rush. The film captures the atmosphere of New York City during the fall season perfectly. It is a romantic comedy that celebrates connection and the changing of seasons.

‘Garfield’s Thanksgiving’ (1989)

Jon Arbuckle invites a veterinarian to dinner and forces his lazy cat to go on a diet before the big meal. Garfield struggles with the lack of food and attempts to ruin the diet plan. Grandma eventually arrives to save the day and ensures the turkey is cooked properly. This short animated special delivers classic humor and nostalgia for those who grew up watching it.

‘What’s Cooking?’ (2000)

Four diverse families in Los Angeles prepare for their respective Thanksgiving dinners. The film interweaves their stories to show how different cultures celebrate the same American holiday. Tensions rise and secrets are revealed as the turkey is prepared in four very different ways. It provides a multicultural look at the universal stress and joy of family gatherings.

‘Pieces of April’ (2003)

April Burns attempts to cook a Thanksgiving meal for her estranged family in her small New York City apartment. She encounters numerous kitchen disasters and must rely on the kindness of her neighbors to finish the turkey. Her family drives toward the city with low expectations and their own baggage. The film is a raw and touching portrayal of reconciliation and making the best of imperfect situations.

‘Chicken Run’ (2000)

A group of chickens attempts to escape their farm before they are turned into meat pies. While not explicitly set on Thanksgiving the plot revolves around poultry trying to avoid being eaten. The themes of freedom and working together resonate well with family audiences. Claymation animation gives the movie a timeless quality that remains entertaining years later.

Please share your favorite Thanksgiving movie traditions in the comments.