25 Heartwarming Movies Like How the Grinch Stole Christmas for a Festive Movie Marathon

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66%

63

7.7

"Home Alone" follows the misadventures of Kevin McCallister, accidentally left behind by his family during Christmas vacation. As Kevin embraces his newfound independence, he defends his home from burglars using inventive traps. The film, like "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," beautifully intertwines humor with heart, emphasizing the importance of family, forgiveness, and the joy of being together during the holiday season. Kevin's resourcefulness and the burglars' comedic foil create a timeless tale of Christmas spirit and resilience.

CAST

Macaulay Culkin

Joe Pesci

Daniel Stern

Roberts Blossom

Catherine O'Hara

John Heard

Devin Ratray

John Candy

Michael C. Maronna

Hillary Wolf

Directed by Chris Columbus

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86%

66

7.1

"Elf" brings Buddy, a human raised by elves, to New York City in search of his real father. This heartwarming comedy, akin to "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," explores Buddy's journey of self-discovery, the power of acceptance, and the transformative effects of spreading holiday cheer. With Will Ferrell's endearing performance and the film's whimsical charm, "Elf" captures the essence of Christmas, emphasizing the importance of embracing one's true identity and the magic of spreading joy during the festive season.

CAST

Will Ferrell

James Caan

Bob Newhart

Ed Asner

Mary Steenburgen

Zooey Deschanel

Daniel Tay

Faizon Love

Peter Dinklage

Amy Sedaris

Directed by Jon Favreau

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56%

61

6.6

"The Polar Express" takes audiences on a magical train ride to the North Pole, where a young boy learns about the spirit of Christmas and the power of belief. Similar to "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," this enchanting adventure focuses on the wonder and magic of the holiday season. The film beautifully conveys the importance of holding onto the innocence of childhood, embracing the extraordinary, and finding joy in the belief that miracles can happen, especially during the festive season.

CAST

Tom Hanks

Leslie Zemeckis

Eddie Deezen

Nona Gaye

Peter Scolari

Michael Jeter

Josh Hutcherson

Daryl Sabara

Jimmy Bennett

Brendan King

Directed by Robert Zemeckis

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75%

7.8

This faithful adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic novella portrays the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, whose encounter with the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come forces him to confront his own humanity. George C. Scott delivers a compelling performance as Scrooge, highlighting the character's journey from greed to compassion. Like "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," "A Christmas Carol" emphasizes the potential for redemption, illustrating how the magic of Christmas can soften even the hardest of hearts.

CAST

George C. Scott

Roger Rees

David Warner

Susannah York

Edward Woodward

Angela Pleasence

Michael Carter

Anthony Walters

Caroline Langrishe

Lucy Gutteridge

Directed by Clive Donner

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96%

88

7.9

Set against the backdrop of a bustling New York City during the Christmas season, "Miracle on 34th Street" centers around Kris Kringle, a man claiming to be the real Santa Claus. The film beautifully explores the themes of faith, belief, and the magic that surrounds the holiday season. In a similar vein to "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," both films portray the intangible qualities that make Christmas special, emphasizing the importance of trust and the enduring spirit of goodwill that unites people, transcending skepticism and cynicism.

CAST

Maureen O'Hara

John Payne

Edmund Gwenn

Natalie Wood

Porter Hall

Philip Tonge

Alvin Greenman

Harry Antrim

James Seay

Jerome Cowan

Directed by George Seaton

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73%

57

6.6

Starring Tim Allen, "The Santa Clause" tells the story of Scott Calvin, a divorced dad who inadvertently becomes Santa Claus after a mishap on Christmas Eve. The film explores the humorous challenges of Scott adjusting to his new role and the magical journey that transforms him into the embodiment of holiday cheer. Much like "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," both movies weave comedy into heartwarming narratives, emphasizing the joy that comes from embracing the Christmas spirit and discovering the true essence of generosity.

CAST

Tim Allen

Judge Reinhold

Wendy Crewson

Eric Lloyd

David Krumholtz

Larry Brandenburg

Mary Gross

Paige Tamada

Peter Boyle

Judith Scott

Directed by John Pasquin

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94%

89

8.6

Frank Capra's timeless classic "It's a Wonderful Life" follows the life of George Bailey, a compassionate man who contemplates suicide on Christmas Eve. A guardian angel intervenes, showing George the profound impact he has had on others. This emotionally rich narrative, akin to "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," underscores the significance of love, community, and the unseen positive influence individuals can have on those around them during the holiday season. Both films beautifully encapsulate the spirit of Christmas by exploring themes of self-discovery, redemption, and the interconnectedness of humanity.

CAST

James Stewart

Donna Reed

Lionel Barrymore

Thomas Mitchell

Henry Travers

Beulah Bondi

Frank Faylen

Ward Bond

Gloria Grahame

H.B. Warner

Directed by Frank Capra

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86%

8.3

In this animated classic, Charlie Brown seeks to overcome his holiday blues and discover the true meaning of Christmas. As he directs a Christmas play and cares for a scraggly tree, Charlie learns valuable lessons about the importance of friendship and the simplicity that defines the holiday season. Much like "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," both films celebrate the sincerity and purity of Christmas, emphasizing that joy and togetherness can be found in the simplest of gestures. "A Charlie Brown Christmas" captures the essence of childhood wonder and the magic inherent in the season.

CAST

Peter Robbins

Christopher Shea

Tracy Stratford

Cathy Steinberg

Chris Doran

Sally Dryer

Ann Altieri

Geoffrey Ornstein

Karen Mendelson

Directed by Bill Melendez

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59%

51

6.4

In this animated adaptation of Dr. Seuss' classic tale, "The Grinch" explores the character's backstory, revealing why he harbors such disdain for the festive season. As the Grinch plans to steal Christmas from the Whos of Whoville, the film takes a whimsical journey into the green recluse's heart, illustrating the transformative power of kindness and community. Much like "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," this version captures the essence of the original story while adding a fresh perspective on the beloved character.

CAST

Benedict Cumberbatch

Rashida Jones

Kenan Thompson

Cameron Seely

Angela Lansbury

Pharrell Williams

Ramone Hamilton

Sam Lavagnino

Scarlett Estevez

Michael Beattie

Directed by Scott Mosier

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71%

38

6.9

Starring Bill Murray, "Scrooged" is a modern and comedic take on Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol." Murray plays Frank Cross, a cynical and selfish TV executive visited by ghosts who show him the consequences of his actions. Similar to "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," "Scrooged" explores themes of redemption and self-discovery, emphasizing the importance of empathy and human connection during the holiday season. Murray's comedic flair adds a unique and entertaining twist to the timeless tale.

CAST

Bill Murray

Karen Allen

John Forsythe

John Glover

Bobcat Goldthwait

David Johansen

Carol Kane

Robert Mitchum

Nicholas Phillips

Michael J. Pollard

Directed by Richard Donner

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20%

34

5.7

In this festive comedy, Arnold Schwarzenegger portrays a father on a chaotic quest to secure the hottest toy of the season for his son. "Jingle All the Way" captures the frenzied nature of holiday shopping and the lengths parents go to make Christmas magical for their children. Like "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," the film blends humor with heart, showcasing the importance of family and the true spirit of the season amidst the mayhem of materialism. The movie resonates with the idea that the greatest gifts often come from the heart rather than a store.

CAST

Arnold Schwarzenegger

Sinbad

Phil Hartman

Rita Wilson

Robert Conrad

Martin Mull

Jake Lloyd

Jim Belushi

E.J. De la Pena

Laraine Newman

Directed by Brian Levant

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77%

64

7.8

In this enchanting Muppet adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic tale, "The Muppet Christmas Carol" infuses humor and heart into the traditional story of Ebenezer Scrooge. With Michael Caine playing the iconic miser, the Muppets bring their charm to the narrative, delivering a festive blend of comedy and emotion. Similar to "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," the film uses a beloved story as a backdrop to explore themes of generosity, redemption, and the joy that comes from sharing the holiday spirit with those around you.

CAST

Michael Caine

Dave Goelz

Steve Whitmire

Jerry Nelson

Frank Oz

David Rudman

Don Austen

Jessica Fox

Robert Tygner

Steven Mackintosh

Directed by Brian Henson

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70%

49

7.5

The Griswold family's attempt at a picture-perfect Christmas takes a hilariously chaotic turn in "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation." Chevy Chase stars as Clark Griswold, whose ambitious holiday plans spiral into a series of comical misadventures. Reflecting the comedic spirit of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," this film captures the mayhem and mishaps that often accompany holiday celebrations. Both movies find humor in the imperfections of the season, showcasing the importance of family and embracing the unpredictable joys of Christmas.

CAST

Chevy Chase

Beverly D'Angelo

Juliette Lewis

Johnny Galecki

John Randolph

Diane Ladd

E.G. Marshall

Doris Roberts

Randy Quaid

Miriam Flynn

Directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik

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95%

82

7.9

Tim Burton's darkly imaginative stop-motion fantasy, "The Nightmare Before Christmas," introduces Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, who stumbles upon Christmas Town and decides to bring his own spooky flair to the holiday. The film's unique blend of Halloween and Christmas elements, coupled with Danny Elfman's memorable music, sets it apart. Similarly, "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" and "The Nightmare Before Christmas" share a whimsical approach to the holiday season, celebrating the unconventional and showcasing the magic that can arise when different worlds collide.

CAST

Chris Sarandon

Catherine O'Hara

William Hickey

Glenn Shadix

Paul Reubens

Ken Page

Edward Ivory

Kerry Katz

Carmen Twillie

Directed by Henry Selick

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92%

69

7.1

In "Arthur Christmas," the high-tech operation at the North Pole is disrupted when a present is mistakenly left undelivered. Arthur, Santa's clumsy but earnest son, embarks on a heartwarming adventure to ensure no child is left without a gift on Christmas morning. This animated gem, akin to "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," underscores the importance of the holiday spirit and the joy that comes from selfless acts of kindness. Through humor and spectacle, "Arthur Christmas" delivers a festive tale that resonates with audiences of all ages, celebrating the magic of giving.

CAST

James McAvoy

Hugh Laurie

Bill Nighy

Jim Broadbent

Imelda Staunton

Ashley Jensen

Marc Wootton

Laura Linney

Eva Longoria

Ramona Marquez

Directed by Sarah Smith

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21%

42

5.7

Starring Vince Vaughn as Santa's bitter older brother, "Fred Claus" explores family dynamics during the Christmas season. Fred, feeling overshadowed by his saintly sibling, is forced to help at the North Pole. This comedy, reminiscent of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," delves into themes of redemption and the power of familial bonds. As Fred navigates the challenges of the North Pole, the film delivers laughs and heartwarming moments, ultimately conveying a message of acceptance and the transformative nature of the holiday spirit.

CAST

Vince Vaughn

Paul Giamatti

John Michael Higgins

Miranda Richardson

Rachel Weisz

Kathy Bates

Trevor Peacock

Ludacris

Elizabeth Banks

Jeremy Swift

Directed by David Dobkin

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"The Holiday" follows two women, played by Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet, who swap homes for the Christmas season and unexpectedly find love in different corners of the world. In a departure from traditional holiday romances, this film, like "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," explores themes of self-discovery and the magic of unexpected connections. With charming performances and a delightful narrative, "The Holiday" captures the essence of the season, showcasing the transformative power of love and the joy of embracing new beginnings during the holidays.

CAST

Cameron Diaz

Kate Winslet

Jude Law

Jack Black

Eli Wallach

Edward Burns

Rufus Sewell

Miffy Englefield

Emma Pritchard

Sarah Parish

Directed by Nancy Meyers

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86%

70

7.3

"Gremlins" takes a darkly comedic twist on the holiday season when a young man receives a cute and furry creature called a Mogwai as a Christmas gift. However, the creature comes with strict rules, and when those rules are broken, chaos ensues as mischievous and destructive Gremlins are unleashed. This film, much like "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," injects humor into the holiday setting, albeit with a darker edge. Both movies highlight the unpredictability of the season and how unexpected events can lead to both chaos and, ultimately, moments of reflection on the true essence of the holidays.

CAST

Zach Galligan

Phoebe Cates

Hoyt Axton

Frances Lee McCain

Corey Feldman

Keye Luke

John Louie

Dick Miller

Jackie Joseph

Polly Holliday

Directed by Joe Dante

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64%

55

7.6

"Love Actually" (2003) is a heartwarming ensemble romantic comedy that intertwines multiple love stories set during the festive Christmas season in London. Similar to "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," the film explores the transformative power of love during the holidays. Through interconnected characters and relationships, "Love Actually" delves into various aspects of love, from unrequited crushes to enduring marriages. Much like the Grinch's transformation from a Christmas cynic to someone who understands the true spirit of the season, "Love Actually" showcases the diverse and often unexpected ways love manifests.

CAST

Alan Rickman

Bill Nighy

Colin Firth

Emma Thompson

Hugh Grant

Laura Linney

Liam Neeson

Martine McCutcheon

Andrew Lincoln

Keira Knightley

Directed by Richard Curtis

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53%

42

6.8

In "The Family Man," Jack Campbell (Nicolas Cage), a successful Wall Street executive, experiences a Christmas miracle when he wakes up to find himself in an alternate life where he married his college sweetheart. Similar to "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," the film explores themes of self-discovery and the true meaning of happiness. Jack's transformation from a self-centered careerist to a family man is heartwarming, emphasizing the importance of love and connection during the holiday season.

CAST

Nicolas Cage

Téa Leoni

Don Cheadle

Jeremy Piven

Saul Rubinek

Josef Sommer

Makenzie Vega

Jake Milkovich

Ryan Milkovich

Lisa Thornhill

Directed by Brett Ratner

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73%

59

6.9

A darkly comedic twist on the holidays, "The Ref" follows Gus (Denis Leary), a cat burglar who inadvertently becomes a mediator for a bickering couple during a botched heist on Christmas Eve. In the spirit of the Grinch's redemption, Gus's interactions with the dysfunctional couple lead to unexpected revelations about love and family. The film shares a cynical yet ultimately heartwarming view of the holidays, showcasing that even the most chaotic situations can bring people closer together.

CAST

Denis Leary

Judy Davis

Kevin Spacey

Glynis Johns

Robert J. Steinmiller Jr.

Raymond J. Barry

Richard Bright

Christine Baranski

Adam LeFevre

J.K. Simmons

Directed by Ted Demme

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89%

71

6.6

"Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale" turns the traditional image of Santa Claus on its head. In this darkly humorous Finnish fantasy, a group of locals discovers the real and rather menacing origins of Santa Claus buried in the mountains. Similar to the Grinch's subversion of holiday norms, the film playfully deconstructs the jolly image of Santa, offering a unique and unexpected take on Christmas folklore. As the characters navigate the eerie and whimsical discoveries, the film combines elements of horror and fantasy with a touch of holiday satire.

CAST

Onni Tommila

Jorma Tommila

Tommi Korpela

Rauno Juvonen

Per Christian Ellefsen

Ilmari Järvenpää

Peeter Jakobi

Jonathan Hutchings

Risto Salmi

Jens Sivertsen

Directed by Jalmari Helander

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47%

62

6.2

In "The Ice Harvest," Christmas Eve in Wichita takes a dark turn when mob lawyer Charlie Arglist, played by John Cusack, and strip club owner Vic Cavanaugh, portrayed by Billy Bob Thornton, execute a heist gone awry. Amidst the frosty landscape, the film weaves a tale of betrayal, unexpected alliances, and humor against the backdrop of the holiday season. Similar to "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," it explores the theme of redemption and unexpected connections but adds a noir touch with a mix of crime and holiday cheer.

CAST

John Cusack

Billy Bob Thornton

Connie Nielsen

Randy Quaid

Oliver Platt

Mike Starr

Ned Bellamy

T.J. Jagodowski

David Pasquesi

Lara Phillips

Directed by Harold Ramis

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13%

14

5.4

Set in a crisis hotline office on Christmas Eve, "Mixed Nuts" follows the chaotic and comedic events that unfold as the staff, led by Philip, played by Steve Martin, deal with various holiday-related crises. Mirroring the whimsical and humorous spirit of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," the film brings together a quirky ensemble cast to navigate the challenges of the festive season, emphasizing the importance of community and shared laughter in the face of adversity.

CAST

Steve Martin

Madeline Kahn

Rita Wilson

Juliette Lewis

Anthony LaPaglia

Adam Sandler

Liev Schreiber

Parker Posey

Jon Stewart

Garry Shandling

Directed by Nora Ephron

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84%

7.4

Based on Terry Pratchett's Discworld series, "The Hogfather" is a fantastical journey into a world where the Hogfather, the equivalent of Santa Claus, goes missing. Similar to the Grinch's attempt to steal Christmas, this film explores the disruption of a beloved holiday figure and the chaos that ensues. As Death takes on the role of the Hogfather, the narrative unfolds with humor and fantasy, offering a unique take on the holiday spirit. Both tales share the theme of preserving the magic of the season even in the face of unconventional challenges.

CAST

David Jason

Marc Warren

Michelle Dockery

David Warner

Tony Robinson

Nigel Planer

Peter Guinness

Stephen Marcus

Craig Conway

Rhodri Meilir

Directed by Vadim Jean