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Christmas is a time filled with joy, bringing together couples, families, and close friends who often indulge in the cozy tradition of watching favorite films while enjoying snacks and warm drinks. This nostalgic and heartwarming activity strengthens bonds, featuring timeless classics like the family comedy Home Alone, the animated fantasy Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas, the romantic ensemble dramedy Love Actually, the supernatural drama It’s a Wonderful Life, the romantic comedy The Holiday, and the unconventional Christmas movie Die Hard.
While audiences consistently revisit these holiday staples, there are also overlooked titles that deserve attention this festive season. Whether funny, bizarre, cheesy, surreal, or dark, these 15 lesser-known or forgotten movies from past decades offer a unique and worthwhile viewing experience.
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15 Forgotten Christmas Movies From Decades Past
Santa Claus Conquers the Martians (1964)
Santa Claus Conquers the Martians is a sci-fi comedy directed by Nicholas Webster, starring John Call as Santa Claus, Leonard Hicks as Kimar, Victor Stiles as Billy, and a young Pia Zadora as Girmar. The plot revolves around Martian parents who, frustrated with their children’s fascination with Earth’s festive TV shows and Santa Claus, decide to travel to Earth to abduct Santa.
What Sets It Apart: This film introduces Mrs. Claus, played by Doris Rich, making it the first motion picture appearance of the character. Despite its campy and humorous elements, or perhaps because of them, the movie has gained a cult following. It has inspired various theatrical productions, a novelization by Lou Harry published by Penguin Books/Chamberlain Bros, and even a cover of the theme song by the punk rock band Sloppy Seconds in 1992.
Santa With Muscles (1996)
Santa With Muscles, a somewhat overlooked Christmas comedy, might have faded from memory, possibly due to its brief two-week stint in theaters. Directed by John Murlowski, the movie features wrestling icon Hulk Hogan in the role of Blake Thorn. Thorn, a self-absorbed millionaire, experiences amnesia after a head injury while masquerading as Santa Claus. The plot unfolds as he embarks on a personal mission to thwart the villainous scientist Ebner Frost (played by Ed Begley Jr.) from seizing control of an orphanage housing magical crystals.
What sets the film apart is its delightful blend of fantasy, action, and comedy, culminating in a feel-good ending. The inclusion of WWE stunts in a snowy setting adds to the film’s charm, making it a lighthearted and enjoyable choice for families seeking holiday entertainment.
Richie Rich’s Christmas Wish (1998)
Richie Rich’s Christmas Wish is a standalone follow-up to the popular 1994 film Richie Rich, featuring David Gallagher as the main character instead of Macaulay Culkin. In the story, Richie, the wealthiest kid globally, becomes the target of blame from his spoiled cousin Reggie (played by Jake Richardson) for ruining Christmas gifts meant for local orphans. Distraught, Richie wishes he was never born in front of a magical machine created by his private scientist.
This leads Richie into an alternate reality where his own parents don’t recognize him, and Reggie has become a ruthless ruler, threatening to cancel Christmas. The film stands out with its accurate costumes, impressive art direction, and a lively atmosphere that appeals to both kids fascinated by Richie’s cool gadgets and adults looking to reignite their holiday spirit. Jake Richardson delivers a standout performance as the villainous Reggie, stealing the spotlight in every scene he appears.
Casper’s First Christmas (1979)
“Casper’s First Christmas” is a distinctive and often overlooked TV crossover from past decades, directed by Carl Urbano. Lasting 30 minutes, the animated film follows Casper the friendly ghost and his companion Hairy Scary as they face the prospect of relocating to California due to their house being slated for demolition after Christmas.
In a twist of fate, Yogi Bear and his friends, lost in the forest, stumble upon Casper and Hairy Scary’s home. Together, they collaborate to decorate the house for a final festive celebration. However, complications arise as Hairy Scary becomes envious of the new friends and attempts to sabotage the party. Fortunately, a change of heart ensues, leading to a heartwarming visit from Santa Claus, who intervenes to save the house.
What sets this TV movie apart is its unique gathering of beloved characters from Hanna-Barbera and Harvey Entertainment for the first time. Reviews from IMDB users highlight the vibrant and detailed animation, surpassing the standard of many cartoon specials from the same era. The interactions between Casper and Hairy Scary are particularly praised for their humor and entertainment value. One memorable exchange involves Hairy Scary’s amusing comparison of Santa Claus to himself in terms of scariness.
Don’t Open Till Christmas (1984)
Don’t Open Till Christmas, directed by Edmund Purdom, deviates from the typical family-friendly holiday releases. In this British slasher film, Chief Inspector Ian Harris (played by Purdom) investigates a series of brutal killings targeting men dressed as Santa in London. With actors like Alan Lake, Belinda Mayne, and Gerry Sundquist, the movie is a far cry from the warm and festive themes associated with Christmas.
What sets it apart is its departure from the spirit of love, peace, and giving traditionally associated with the holiday season. Instead, it offers a wild, sleazy, brutal, and gory experience, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer something different from the usual cheesy Hallmark romances. While not a commercial hit, Don’t Open Till Christmas has gained a cult following for its unique and unconventional approach to the Christmas movie genre.
White Reindeer (2013)
Zach Clark’s film “White Reindeer” is a unique dark comedy featuring Anna Margaret Hollyman as Suzanne, a real estate agent planning to move to Hawaii with her husband, Jeff (Nathan Williams), after the holidays. However, her life takes a tragic turn when she discovers Jeff brutally murdered at home, revealing his infidelity with a stripper named Fantasia (Laura Lemar-Goldsborough). Suzanne and Fantasia then embark on a wild journey of cocaine-fueled partying and shoplifting.
What sets this film apart is its unconventional approach to themes of self-discovery and coping with grief during the Christmas season. Unlike traditional Christmas movies, “White Reindeer” takes an absurdist and darkly comedic angle. The movie was funded through a Kickstarter campaign and shot using a Red Epic camera, known for its ability to record at high frame rates and capture video and stills simultaneously—a groundbreaking feature at the time of production.
Variety’s review highlighted the film’s unique take on Christmas, emphasizing the inevitability of the holiday through its countdown structure. Despite the nightmarish events in the narrative, the film portrays the healing constants of Christmas rituals.
Babes in Toyland (1986)
Clive Donner directed the made-for-TV musical film “Babes in Toyland,” featuring Drew Barrymore as 11-year-old Lisa Piper, Jill Schoelen as her older sister Mary, Keanu Reeves as Jack, Richard Mulligan as Barnie, and Pat Morita as the Toymaster/Santa. Lisa, a selfless girl, takes care of her family after her father’s death and has no time for play. After a Christmas Eve blizzard, Mary, Jack, and Lisa find themselves in the magical world of Toyland, where the evil Barnie and trolls plan a hostile takeover.
What sets the movie apart is its cast of beloved ’80s stars, offering a nostalgic experience. Keanu Reeves, a teen heartthrob turned action hero, and Drew Barrymore, a child prodigy from a famous acting family, create entertaining on-screen chemistry. Notably, this is the only film where Barrymore and Reeves shared the screen. Pat Morita, known as Mr. Miyagi from the Karate Kid movies, adds to the star-studded lineup, while villain Mulligan has a history in hit sitcoms.
Deadly Games/Dial Code Santa Claus (1989)
Deadly Games is a French horror thriller film written and directed by René Manzor, starring Patrick Floersheim as a sinister Santa, Brigitte Fossey as Julie, Alain Lalanne as Thomas, and Franck Capillery as a police officer. The story revolves around Thomas, a clever and compassionate young boy who finds himself home alone with his blind grandfather on Christmas Eve, forced to defend against a Santa-clad burglar.
What sets Deadly Games apart is its skillful blend of dark fantasy, gruesome elements, and the warmth of the holiday season. The film garnered acclaim by winning Best Director and Best Film at the 1990 Fantafestival. Interestingly, the plot’s resemblance to Home Alone, released a year later, led to accusations from director Manzor, who claimed the popular family film was a less dark adaptation and even considered legal action. At the very least, Deadly Games can be seen as a potential inspiration for Home Alone.
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The Year Without a Santa Claus (1974)
Directed by Jules Bass and Arthur Rankin Jr. and featuring the voices of Mickey Rooney, Dick Shawn, and George S. Irving, “The Year Without a Santa Claus” is a 51-minute stop-motion animated film based on a 1956 book by Pulitzer Prize winner Phyllis McGinley. In the story, Santa, feeling exhausted and battling the flu, contemplates skipping Christmas Eve gift distribution. Mrs. Claus, along with elves Jingle and Jangle, strive to change his mind.
What sets the movie apart is its narration by the acclaimed Shirley Booth, marking her final acting credit. This Claymation Christmas special is well-crafted, evoking warm nostalgia and boasting a memorable soundtrack. The dynamic interactions between the characters Snow Miser and Heat Miser add an entertaining element to the film.
The Man Who Came to Dinner (1942)
“The Man Who Came to Dinner” is a timeless comedy directed by William Keighley, featuring an outstanding ensemble cast including Bette Davis, Ann Sheridan, Monty Woolley, Richard Travis, and Jimmy Durante. The plot revolves around a self-absorbed radio personality from New York who, due to a hip injury, finds himself staying with the Stanley family in Ohio during the holidays. As the story unfolds, the protagonist not only disrupts the family dynamics but also overstays his welcome for several months.
What sets this film apart is its status as a classic screwball comedy, complemented by the exceptional performances of its cast. Monty Woolley’s portrayal earned him a Best Actor nomination at the NYFCC Awards. Described in a 1942 article in The New York Times as “The most vicious but hilarious cat-clawing exhibition ever put on the screen,” the movie is praised for its deliciously wicked character portrayal and its helter-skelter satire. It provides audiences with a delightful and satisfying experience of laughing at the foibles of famous individuals.
Christmas in Connecticut (1945)
“Christmas in Connecticut,” directed by Peter Godfrey in the 1940s, features Barbara Stanwyck as Elizabeth, a single New Yorker who, ahead of her time, writes about food in a manner reminiscent of modern-day food vloggers. However, her articles are based on a fictional family from Connecticut. The plot thickens when she is compelled to maintain this facade at her supposed “farm” during Christmas Eve, hosting a war hero, to avoid damaging her reputation with tradition-loving American families.
The film was a significant commercial success, grossing over $3 million in the U.S. alone. While it may appear conservative by today’s standards, it offers a heartwarming and enjoyable holiday experience, with standout performances by Stanwyck and her co-star Morgan.
One Christmas (1994)
“Snow and salvation intertwine in New Orleans as the holiday spirit takes center stage. Directed by Tony Bill and featuring a cast including Katharine Hepburn, Henry Winkler, Swoosie Kurtz, and Tonea Stewart, ‘One Christmas’ adapts Truman Capote’s autobiographical short story. The film follows Harris, a young boy residing with his aunt in rural Alabama, who is sent to spend Christmas with his estranged father in New Orleans—a con artist and womanizer.
What Sets It Apart This movie stands out as a compelling and somewhat true-to-life coming-of-age tale. Notably, it serves as Hepburn’s final on-screen appearance, offering a poignant experience for both her fans and admirers of Capote’s literary works. ‘One Christmas’ delivers a beautifully crafted and performed lesson on embracing life’s small moments and extending compassion to those burdened by the consequences of their choices.”
Bright Eyes (1934)
Featuring the charming Shirley Temple in the role of five-year-old Shirley, Lois Wilson as her widowed mother Mary, employed as a maid for the patronizing Smythe family, and James Dunn as Loop, her godfather, “Bright Eyes” is a heartwarming Christmas story directed by David Butler. The narrative takes a poignant turn when Mary is tragically killed by a car on Christmas Day, leading Loop to confront Uncle Ned, the only sympathetic member of the Smythe family, in a legal battle for Shirley’s custody. Meanwhile, the young girl grapples with the challenges of coping with her grief.
In terms of its significance, Temple’s portrayal of Shirley in this film, amidst its themes of tragedy and eventual hope, adds a poignant touch to any nostalgic and emotionally stirring Christmas movie collection. As a child actor, Temple had already won the affection of the audience with her endearing performances, and “Bright Eyes,” with its blend of sorrow and optimism, stands out as a meaningful inclusion in any tear-inducing Christmas viewing. Notably, Temple’s roles in this film and “Little Miss Marker” contributed to her earning a miniature Oscar in 1935, making her the first child to receive an Academy Award nomination.
The Life & Adventures of Santa Claus (1985)
Adapted from the 1902 children’s book of the same title, “The Life & Adventures of Santa Claus” is a 50-minute stop-motion animation, created by Jules Bass and Arthur Rankin Jr., adding to their collection of holiday specials. The film, with voices from Robby Benson, Jim Cummings, and Hal Holbrook, explores the question of whether Santa Claus should be granted immortality for his benevolent deeds. The narrative traces Santa’s upbringing by a lioness and a fairy, his evolution into a skilled artisan, and his efforts to alleviate the suffering of orphans through handmade wooden toys.
What sets this special apart is its original premise and the presence of captivating characters such as the compassionate Great Ak and the cold-hearted King Agua. The movie earned a nomination for a Young Artist Award in the category of Exceptional Family TV Special or Movie of the Week, making it a distinctive and thought-provoking addition to holiday viewing.
The Snowman (1982)
Adapted from Raymond Briggs’ children’s picture book, “The Snowman” is a 26-minute silent animation directed by Dianne Jackson. In the original version, it is introduced by Briggs, while the re-release features David Bowie, and the 20th-anniversary version by Mel Smith.
The plot revolves around an only child in a cozy suburban home who discovers that the snowman he built has magically come to life. Excitedly, he welcomes the snowman into his home, dresses him up, and embarks on a magical journey over cities and mountains. The story culminates in an encounter with Santa and his helpers.
A standout feature of the film is Howard Blake’s captivating orchestral score, performed by the award-winning Sinfonia of London. The theme song, “Walking in the Air,” gained further popularity through covers by the British rock band Rainbow and the Finnish symphonic metal band Nightwish. The animation’s nostalgic and magical perspective, narrated from a child’s point of view, adds to its charm. Offering a brief yet enchanting escape on Christmas Eve, “The Snowman” rekindles the viewers’ connection with their inner child.
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