Whether you’re traveling home for Thanksgiving this month or having a cozy gathering with friends, you’ll probably spend some time searching for the perfect movie (or movies!) to get into the holiday mood. Classics like A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, Miracle on 34th Street, and Planes, Trains & Automobiles are always wonderful—but sometimes it’s nice to try something a little different.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of slightly unconventional movies that are set during, around, or inspired by Thanksgiving. So as you get ready for a long weekend of eating and relaxing, take a look at our favorite Thanksgiving-themed picks below.
His Three Daughters (2023)
If you need a break from your own slightly chaotic family this holiday, check out Azazel Jacobs’s heartfelt drama about three sisters (played by Elizabeth Olsen, Carrie Coon, and Natasha Lyonne) who come together in New York City to care for their dying father. Expect family tension, a bit of gambling, and moments of genuine tenderness.
The Humans (2021)
Based on Stephen Karam’s Tony-winning play, The Humans follows a family gathering for Thanksgiving dinner in a rundown Lower Manhattan apartment. With a standout cast including Amy Schumer, Beanie Feldstein, Steven Yeun, and June Squibb, it’s a moving and relatable story.
Little Women (2019)
Yes, this film was released on Christmas Day, and it has all the snowy, cozy vibes to match—but Greta Gerwig’s fresh take on Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel is also perfect for Thanksgiving. It’s a timeless family drama about four sisters finding their paths in life while staying connected to each other.
Krisha (2015)
In Trey Edward Shults’s intense debut film, Krisha Fairchild plays a recovering addict who invites her estranged family over for Thanksgiving. The day starts calmly but soon unravels as old tensions surface, revealing that Krisha may not be as changed as she seems.
Mistress America (2015)
This delightful comedy from Noah Baumbach and Greta Gerwig stars Gerwig as Brooke, the adventurous soon-to-be stepsister of Tracy (Lola Kirke), a Barnard freshman. As Tracy navigates life in New York, she finds inspiration and friendship in Brooke—leading to all sorts of entertaining drama. The film wraps up with a memorable New York-style Thanksgiving feast.
Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
If you’re entertaining a crowd of different ages, this Wes Anderson film is a perfect choice. With its clever humor, charming visuals, and a star-studded voice cast including George Clooney and Meryl Streep, it’s sure to please everyone. While not strictly about Thanksgiving, its warm autumn colors set just the right mood.
Funny People (2009)
Don’t be fooled by the title—Judd Apatow’s film starring Seth Rogen and Adam Sandler is more emotional than outright funny. It centers on a comedian facing a terminal illness, and features a touching Thanksgiving scene where Sandler’s character reflects on aging and loneliness—a moment that might make you want to hug your friends a little tighter.
Julie & Julia (2009)
Nora Ephron’s film about a cooking blogger obsessed with Julia Child isn’t flawless, but what could be more joyful than watching Meryl Streep and Stanley Tucci enjoy lots of buttery dishes?
Paul Blart: Mall Cop (2009)
Over the years, this Kevin James comedy has developed a cult following, partly thanks to a late surge in memes.Paul Blart: Mall Cop fully embraces mindless fun, focusing on a bustling mall that’s taken hostage on what might be the worst day for a mall cop: Black Friday.
Still Walking (2008)
In this heartfelt film by Hirokazu Kore-eda, a family gathers not for a holiday but to mark the 12th anniversary of a tragic loss. Yet, it feels like Thanksgiving weekend, with grandparents playing with grandkids, lovingly prepared meals, and buried tensions slowly surfacing over a day.
Dan in Real Life (2007)
The film opens with widower and single dad Dan Burns (Steve Carell) visiting his family for Thanksgiving. This touching dramedy follows Dan as he develops feelings for a woman who turns out to be his brother’s girlfriend—talk about holiday drama!
For Your Consideration (2006)
Like other Christopher Guest mockumentaries, much of the dialogue and plot is improvised. When a mediocre film is in production, no one pays it much mind, but rumors of Oscar potential turn everything up to eleven, leading to chaos for the cast and crew. The connection to Thanksgiving? The film within the film is initially called Home for Purim before being renamed Home for Thanksgiving.
Brokeback Mountain (2005)
Though mostly set on the open plains, a key scene occurs on Thanksgiving when Ennis’s ex-wife confronts him about his relationship with Jack.
Pieces of April (2003)
April (Katie Holmes) organizes a Thanksgiving dinner for her estranged family after her mother’s cancer diagnosis, hitting all the marks for a great holiday film—especially with Patricia Clarkson’s Oscar-nominated performance as the ill mother. The story includes April’s frantic preparations, her boyfriend’s efforts to impress her parents, and the family’s emotional journey to Manhattan.
What’s Cooking? (2000)
This film shows that Thanksgiving isn’t just about traditional fare, highlighting celebrations among Vietnamese, Jewish, Latino, and African American families.
You’ve Got Mail (1998)
While this classic rom-com is always worth watching, it’s perfect for Thanksgiving thanks to the scene where Joe Fox helps out in a cash-only line at Zabar’s on the holiday. Enjoy the festive theme and the story of two business rivals falling in love online.
The House of Yes (1997)
Parker Posey shines as a Jackie O.-obsessed twin in this black comedy set on Thanksgiving 1983, when college student Marty brings his fiancée (Tori Spelling) home to meet his parents.
The Ice Storm (1997)
Focusing on two suburban families during Thanksgiving 1973, this film explores dysfunction through themes of sexuality, substance use, and human nature. Directed by Ang Lee and based on Rick Moody’s novel, it features a stellar cast and an unforgettable scene involving Elijah Wood and electrocution.
The Daytrippers (1997)
After Thanksgiving, Eliza (Hope Davis) finds a love letter to her husband (Stanley Tucci) from another woman and heads to the city from Long Island to investigate, bringing along her parents, sister (Parker Posey), and her sister’s boyfriend (Liev Schreiber).Eiber comes along for the ride, leading to a day of family chaos.
Home for the Holidays (1995)
Based on a short story by Chris Radant, Jodie Foster’s Home for the Holidays brings together a star-studded cast as the ultimate dysfunctional family. Holly Hunter plays Claudia, an art restorer who’s just lost her job and flies home to Baltimore for Thanksgiving. She’s joined by Robert Downey Jr. as her younger brother Tommy, Dylan McDermott as Tommy’s friend Leo, Anne Bancroft and Charles Durning as her parents Adele and Henry, Geraldine Chaplin as Aunt Glady, and Claire Danes as Claudia’s daughter Kitt, among others.
Addams Family Values (1993)
In this sequel to The Addams Family, Christina Ricci’s Wednesday Addams puts on a memorable Thanksgiving play at summer camp. Though her performance literally goes up in flames, the all-star cast—including Anjelica Huston, Christopher Lloyd, and Joan Cusack—will keep you smiling long after the turkey is gone.
Scent of a Woman (1992)
To afford a flight home for Christmas, a prep-school student (Chris O’Donnell) agrees to look after a blind, retired Army Ranger (Al Pacino in an Oscar-winning role) over Thanksgiving weekend. The older man takes the boy on a whirlwind tour of New York City, culminating in a tense Thanksgiving dinner with a distant relative. Keep tissues nearby.
Babette’s Feast (1987)
Though not strictly a Thanksgiving film—it’s set in 19th-century Denmark—Babette’s Feast, based on a story by Isak Dinesen, celebrates kindness, community, and a magnificent banquet. Play it for the family and watch everyone become completely captivated.
The Last Waltz (1978)
Martin Scorsese’s legendary concert film captures The Band’s farewell performance at San Francisco’s Winterland Ballroom on Thanksgiving 1976. Look for appearances by music icons like the Staple Singers and Bob Dylan, and don’t miss Rick Danko of The Band wishing the audience a happy holiday.
Rocky (1976)
Yes, that Rocky. While the 1976 boxing classic is one of Sylvester Stallone’s finest, it also features a memorable Thanksgiving scene where a turkey gets tossed out the back door—an incident that surprisingly leads to a date for the film’s hero.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a helpful and clear list of FAQs about the Top 25 Thanksgiving Movies for a cozy relaxing weekend
General Beginner Questions
1 What makes a movie a Thanksgiving movie
A Thanksgiving movie is one where the holiday is a central part of the plot often focusing on themes like family gatherings gratitude overcoming chaos or the preparation of a big meal
2 Why is it a good idea to have a Thanksgiving movie weekend
Its a perfect way to unwind get into the holiday spirit without the stress and enjoy comforting stories that celebrate family and thankfulness
3 Where can I find a list of the top Thanksgiving movies
You can find curated lists on entertainment sites like Rotten Tomatoes IMDb and popular streaming service blogs This FAQ is based on those common rankings
4 Im not American Will I still enjoy these movies
Absolutely While the holiday is American the universal themes of family food and navigating complicated relationships are relatable to everyone
5 Are these movies good for the whole family
Many are but not all Some are specifically for kids while others contain adult humor and themes Its always best to check the rating before watching with young children
Recommendations Examples
6 Whats a classic mustwatch Thanksgiving movie
Planes Trains and Automobiles is the quintessential choice Its a hilarious and heartfelt comedy about just trying to get home for the holiday
7 Can you recommend a funny Thanksgiving movie
For a laughoutloud pick try Addams Family Values which features a famously chaotic summer camp Thanksgiving pageant
8 Whats a good heartfelt or dramatic Thanksgiving film
Hannah and Her Sisters is a beautiful Oscarwinning drama that begins and ends with a Thanksgiving dinner exploring the complexities of family and love
9 Are there any good Thanksgiving movies for kids
Yes A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving is a timeless animated short and Free Birds is a fun modern cartoon about turkeys trying to change history
10 Is Home Alone a Thanksgiving movie
Its often included on lists because its set during the Christmas season but the initial chaos starts when the family leaves for a Thanksgiving vacation in Paris Many