Turkey, Pie, and Flicks: Movies to Watch Around Thanksgiving
Alright, guys, Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and you know what that means? No, not just turkey and pie (although, let's be real, that's a big part of it). It's also time to cozy up with some fantastic movies! So, we've rounded up a list of movies to watch around Thanksgiving that'll make your holiday even more memorable. Grab your remote, get comfy, and let's dive in! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and movies to watch around thanksgiving.
Classic Thanksgiving Movies
If you're all about tradition, you can't go wrong with these classic Thanksgiving movies. They've been bringing families together for years, and they're just as delightful today as they were decades ago.
Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
Image: Steve Martin and John Candy in 'Planes, Trains and Automobiles'
This comedy classic follows Neal Page (Steve Martin) as he tries to get home to Chicago for Thanksgiving, but fate has other plans. With delays, mishaps, and an unlikely travel companion (John Candy), this movie is a hilarious and heartwarming journey that'll make you appreciate your own travel experiences (well, maybe not all of them).
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
Image: Snoopy and Woodstock in 'A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving'
No list of Thanksgiving movies would be complete without this Peanuts classic. When Peppermint Patty invites herself and Marcie to Charlie Brown's house for Thanksgiving, he panics and tries to whip up a last-minute feast. With the help of Snoopy and Woodstock, they manage to serve up a unique meal that's as memorable as it is unexpected.
Modern Thanksgiving Movies
If you're in the mood for something more recent, these modern Thanksgiving movies offer a blend of humor, heart, and holiday cheer.
Free Birds (2013)
Image: Reggie (voiced by Owen Wilson) and Jake (voiced by Woody Harrelson) in 'Free Birds'
In this animated adventure, Reggie (Owen Wilson) is a turkey who's been spared from the Thanksgiving dinner table and now lives a comfortable life on a farm. But when he meets Jake (Woody Harrelson), a fellow turkey with a daring plan to go back in time and change the course of history, Reggie must confront his destiny and save his feathered friends from the annual feast.
The Blind Side (2009)
Image: Sandra Bullock and Quinton Aaron in 'The Blind Side'
Based on a true story, this heartwarming drama follows the Tuohys, a loving family who takes in Michael Oher (Quinton Aaron), a homeless teenage boy. As they help him navigate life, academics, and his newfound passion for football, the Tuohys learn that family isn't just about blood – it's about love, support, and acceptance. With Sandra Bullock delivering a standout performance, this movie is a must-watch for Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving-inspired Movies
These movies might not be set during Thanksgiving, but they capture the spirit of the holiday with their themes of family, gratitude, and togetherness.
The Muppets (2011)
Image: Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy in 'The Muppets'
When Walter, the world's biggest Muppet fan, his brother Gary, and Gary's girlfriend Mary get wind that oil tycoon Tex Richman plans to drill under the Muppet Theater, they must reunite Kermit, Miss Piggy, Fozzie, Gonzo, Animal, and the entire Muppet gang to save their beloved theater. With hilarious musical numbers, celebrity cameos, and a heartwarming message about the power of friendship and perseverance, this movie is a fun-filled celebration of family and community.
Inside Out (2015)
Image: Joy (voiced by Amy Poehler) and Sadness (voiced by Phyllis Smith) in 'Inside Out'
In this Pixar gem, we explore the inner workings of the mind through the emotions that guide us. When Riley's family moves to a new city, her emotions – Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust, and Fear – struggle to help her navigate her new life. As they learn to work together and understand the importance of each emotion, they help Riley (and her parents) appreciate the full range of human experience. With its unique perspective on family dynamics and emotional growth, this movie is a thoughtful addition to your Thanksgiving lineup.
Thanksgiving-themed Horror Movies
If you're in the mood for something a little spookier, these Thanksgiving-themed horror movies offer a thrilling alternative to the classic holiday fare.
ThanksKilling (2009)
Image: The turkey mascot in 'ThanksKilling'
In this low-budget horror-comedy, a group of college students on a road trip encounter a homicidal turkey (yes, you read that right) who's out for revenge. With its campy humor, over-the-top gore, and anachronistic pop culture references, this movie is a delightfully twisted take on the Thanksgiving legend.
Blood Rage (1987)
Image: Todd (Mark Soper) in 'Blood Rage'
On Thanksgiving night, a serial killer dressed as a turkey terrorizes a small town, and it's up to a resourceful young woman to stop him. With its creative kills, eerie atmosphere, and a memorable performance from Mark Soper as the deranged killer, this slasher classic is a bloody good time.
Streaming Exclusives: Movies to Watch Around Thanksgiving
If you're looking for something you can only watch on a streaming service, these streaming exclusives offer a variety of options for every taste.
The Oath (2018) – Hulu
Image: Ike Barinholtz and Tiffany Haddish in 'The Oath'
In this political satire, a couple's Thanksgiving dinner takes a dramatic turn when they ask their guests to sign a petition supporting the "Patriot Act." As tensions rise and alliances shift, this dark comedy explores the divisive nature of politics and the power of family bonds. With its sharp wit and timely themes, this movie is a must-watch for anyone looking to add a little edge to their Thanksgiving lineup.
Holiday Rush (2019) – Netflix
Image: Romany Malco and Sonequa Martin-Green in 'Holiday Rush'
When prominent New York City radio DJ Rush Williams (Romany Malco) loses his job, he must move in with his aunt and uncle in a small town for the holidays. As he struggles to adapt to his new surroundings and reconnect with his family, Rush learns the true meaning of the season. With its heartwarming story, hilarious moments, and an unforgettable performance from Malco, this Netflix original is a feel-good movie that'll make your Thanksgiving even brighter.
Honorable Mentions: Movies to Watch Around Thanksgiving
We couldn't resist adding a few more movies to watch around Thanksgiving that deserve a shout-out. These films might not be set during the holiday, but they capture the spirit of gratitude, family, and togetherness.
The Family Stone (2005)
Image: Sarah Jessica Parker and Diane Keaton in 'The Family Stone'
When Meredith Morton (Sarah Jessica Parker) meets her boyfriend's eccentric family over the holidays, she struggles to fit in with their tight-knit clan. As she navigates their quirks and secrets, Meredith learns the true meaning of family and what it means to belong. With its heartfelt story, talented ensemble cast, and a memorable performance from Diane Keaton as the family matriarch, this movie is a touching addition to your Thanksgiving watchlist.
The Big Chill (1983)
Image: The ensemble cast of 'The Big Chill'
When a group of college friends reunite after the death of one of their own, they must confront their pasts, reevaluate their relationships, and find a way to move forward. With its ensemble cast, witty dialogue, and a memorable soundtrack, this dramedy captures the essence of friendship, love, and the passage of time. It's a poignant reminder that, even as our lives change, the bonds we forge in our youth can last a lifetime.
Conclusion: Movies to Watch Around Thanksgiving
There you have it, folks! Whether you're in the mood for a classic family flick, a modern comedy, or a thrilling horror movie, this list of movies to watch around Thanksgiving has something for everyone. So, grab your favorite blanket, a steaming cup of cocoa, and get ready to enjoy the best holiday movie marathon of the year. Happy Thanksgiving, and happy streaming!