Let’s start with this: the best winter movies aren’t always holiday movies. In that quiet stretch between Christmas and New Year’s, you can easily watch something snowy and entertaining that has nothing to do with Santa, Hanukkah gelt, poinsettias, or gifts. And that doesn’t make you a Grinch—there are plenty of winter-set films that are simply great movies, period. Here are some of our favorites:
Dr. Zhivago (1965)
One of David Lean’s masterpieces, starring Omar Sharif, Julie Christie, Geraldine Chaplin, and some seriously cozy outerwear. Settle in with a warm drink and let this epic, over three hours long, unfold like a vast Russian winter landscape.
McCabe & Mrs. Miller (1971)
More Julie Christie and more incredible furs, this time set in early 1900s Washington State, with Warren Beatty and Robert Altman’s grounded direction. (Plus, a moving Leonard Cohen soundtrack.) Best for a mature audience.
The Shining (1980)
Often seen as a Halloween movie, but the stormy weather (and a frozen Jack Nicholson) give this thriller a wintry chill. Definitely not for kids, but perfect for adults who enjoy comparing their own family dynamics.
Metropolitan (1990)
It’s debutante ball season in New York, where a group of teens play strip poker, discuss class, and fall in love. A delightful 100-minute film that works any time of year, but feels especially fitting when Park Avenue is still lit up for the holidays.
Cool Runnings (1993)
Four Jamaican bobsledders aim for the Winter Olympics despite never having seen snow. (Remember when snow was fun and not a nuisance?) A great pick for the whole family.
Groundhog Day (1993)
Bill Murray stars as weatherman Phil Connors, who relives the same day repeatedly, giving “déjà vu” a whole new meaning. After watching, Sonny & Cher’s “I Got You Babe” will be stuck in your head all night.
Fargo (1996)
The Coen brothers’ brilliant, darkly funny, and superbly acted classic is set in a bleak, gray Minnesota. Definitely not for kids.
Anastasia (1997)
Loosely based on the story of Anna Anderson, this film follows the missing Romanov princess as she finds her way home. Memorable for its beautiful animation, stunning music, and voice work by legends like Meg Ryan and John Cusack.
Ice Age (2002)
Made for kids, this computer-animated adventure follows a quirky group of prehistoric animals migrating south during an ice age. You can tell young viewers it’s nothing like their grandparents moving to Florida. Also, a good chance to talk about climate change.
Miracle (2004)
The story of the 1980 U.S. men’s Olympic hockey team, who faced the Soviets and became a symbol of American patriotism during the Cold War. Features strong accents from cold-weather regions, an inspiring locker room speech, and impressive hockey action. Family-friendly, especially for sports fans or those who remember the ’80s.
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)
Four siblings travel from World War II England to the magical land of Narnia in this classic, featuring James McAvoy as a faun and plenty of Turkish Delight. For extra fun, read the books first.
March of the Penguins (2005)
It’s impossible to watch this without gaining a deep appreciation for penguins. Great for young kids, and a gentle way to discuss climate change and its impact on wildlife.
Happy Feet (2006)
A millennial childhood favorite, this film follows singing and dancing penguins in Antarctica, voiced by an all-star cast including Elijah Wood, Robin Williams, Brittany Murphy, and Nicole Kidman.
Last Holiday (2006)
Despite its ti…Last Holiday wisely avoids the pitfalls of typical Christmas movies. Instead, it’s a charming romantic comedy set at the luxurious Grandhotel Pupp in the Czech Republic. After receiving a grim medical diagnosis, Queen Latifah’s character charms nearly everyone she meets as she goes snowboarding, shops, and lives life to the fullest.
Frozen I & II (2013, 2019)
While made for kids, what adult can resist the wonderful voices of Idina Menzel and Jonathan Groff? This Disney duo follows sisters Anna and Elsa as they navigate trauma, duty, and love—for each other and themselves.
Snowpiercer (2013)
This sci-fi thriller, directed by Bong Joon-ho and starring Chris Evans, follows survivors of a deadly ice age on a train traveling through frozen landscapes. It explores class divisions and the consequences of climate change, making it less suitable for younger viewers.
Force Majeure (2014)
A word of caution: this brilliant and psychologically complex film might strain your relationship—or at least spark some intense conversations. It’s chilling in more ways than one, set at a French Alps ski resort where a possible avalanche shakes a family to its core. Not for the whole family, but all the more compelling for it.
Carol (2015)
An iconic lesbian romance? Absolutely. Christmas-adjacent? Definitely—Carol and Therese first meet while Therese wears a Santa hat. But the film’s heart lies in the bleak midwinter, not the holidays. We still can’t forget the little coat Carol buttons her daughter Rindy into.
The Revenant (2015)
Yes, this is the film that finally won Leonardo DiCaprio his Oscar. It’ll make you profoundly grateful to be warm, indoors, and not inside a bear. It’s too intense for kids and pretty heavy for many adults, so viewer discretion is advised.
I, Tonya (2017)
This wintry skating drama, led by Margot Robbie, dives into the real-life events surrounding the attack on Nancy Kerrigan. While not exactly uplifting, it’s brilliantly soundtracked and oddly enjoyable with a mug of eggnog in hand.
Little Women (2019)
Any Little Women adaptation is perfect for a cold day, but Greta Gerwig’s version seems to especially relish the March sisters dashing through snowy streets and playing indoors—sparing Amy from that frozen lake. It’s a perfect ten for coziness.
Anatomy of a Fall (2023)
Justine Triet’s Oscar-winning film masterfully blends a gripping family drama with a courtroom thriller, set against the stunning French Alps. Sandra Hüller delivers a career-best performance, all while looking impeccably cozy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about the article Tired of Holiday Movies Get Cozy With These 22 Winter Films designed to sound like questions from a real reader
General Definition Questions
Q What exactly is a winter film How is it different from a Christmas movie
A A winter film uses the seasonits atmosphere weather and themesas a central element of the story but isnt necessarily about a specific holiday Think snowy landscapes themes of isolation or reflection and a cozy or melancholic mood rather than Santa and presents
Q Im burnt out on festive cheer Will I actually like these
A Absolutely This list is curated specifically for that feeling These movies embrace winters quieter more atmospheric and sometimes darker side offering a perfect alternative to traditional holiday fare
Q Are these movies all super depressing or scary
A Not at all The list includes a mix There are thoughtful dramas but also witty comedies thrilling adventures and heartwarming talesall united by their winter setting
Practical Use Selection
Q How should I pick a movie from a list of 22 Thats overwhelming
A Look for moods or genres youre in the mood for The article likely groups them Start with a category that appeals to you most
Q Are these good for a group watch or are they mostly solo films
A There are options for both Some are great for group discussion or laughs while others are perfect for a quiet immersive solo viewing under a blanket
Q Where can I stream these movies
A Streaming availability changes constantly The best approach is to check the films title on a service like JustWatch or Reelgood which will show you current streaming options and rental platforms
Q Are these films familyfriendly
A It varies widely Some are perfect for all ages while others are for mature audiences Always check the rating or a quick content review if watching with kids
Content Examples
Q Can you give me a few examples of the types of movies on the list
A Typically a list