35 Must-Watch Thanksgiving Movies for Your Holiday Viewing

As Thanksgiving approaches, families seek heartwarming movies to enjoy together. While there may not be a plethora of films specifically centered on Thanksgiving, there are several noteworthy titles that encapsulate the spirit of the holiday. Here are 35 must-watch Thanksgiving movies that will enrich your holiday viewing experience this year.
Classic Thanksgiving Movies
- Remember the Titans – Available on Amazon and Disney+
- The Big Sick – Available on Amazon and AppleTV+
- Knives Out – Available on Netflix
- The Oath – Available on Amazon
- A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving – Available on AppleTV+
Heartfelt Family Journeys
Thanksgiving is also a time for family drama and heartfelt connections. Films like The Big Chill and Home for the Holidays exemplify these themes.
- The Big Chill – A reunion of college friends after a tragedy.
- Home for the Holidays – Chronicles a dysfunctional family gathering, highlighting the chaos of holiday reunions.
Comedic Yet Touching
For those who enjoy a blend of humor and sentiment, consider movies like Funny People and Planes, Trains and Automobiles.
- Funny People – A movie about friendship within the comedic world, featuring memorable Thanksgiving moments.
- Planes, Trains and Automobiles – A comedic journey home for Thanksgiving, filled with mishaps and unlikely friendships.
Iconic Thanksgiving Specials
Some films, although not solely focused on Thanksgiving, still resonate with the holiday spirit. You’ve Got Mail, for instance, unfolds in the fall and features a memorable Thanksgiving scene between its main characters, played by Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan.
- You’ve Got Mail – A romantic comedy set against a backdrop of autumnal New York.
- A Family Thanksgiving – Explores the transformational journey of a lawyer through fantastical experiences.
Diverse Perspectives on Thanksgiving
Films like What’s Cooking? offer various cultural representations of the celebratory meal whilst addressing the common stresses associated with it.
- What’s Cooking? – A look at different cultural families preparing Thanksgiving dinner.
- Krisha – A darker reflection on family dynamics during a holiday gathering.
Animated Fun for All Ages
Families with young children can enjoy animated selections such as Free Birds. This humorous tale about two turkeys attempting to prevent Thanksgiving is sure to entertain.
Whimsically Unique
Lastly, for a unique twist, check out Alice’s Restaurant, which blends offbeat humor with a Thanksgiving premise.
- Free Birds – Turkeys travel back in time to alter Thanksgiving traditions.
- Alice’s Restaurant – A comedic rendition exploring the holiday through a quirky lens.
With these 35 must-watch Thanksgiving movies, you are well-equipped to enjoy a fulfilling holiday viewing experience with your loved ones. Don’t miss the opportunity to create cherished memories while celebrating the spirit of Thanksgiving on El-Balad.


