Categories: Best

Best Thanksgiving Movies for Family Viewing: Heartwarming Films for a Cozy Holiday

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and of course, great movies! As you gather around the dinner table and share laughter, stories, and delicious food, why not enjoy some heartwarming films that capture the spirit of gratitude and togetherness? Here are the best Thanksgiving movies that are perfect for family viewing.

1. A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving

Join Charlie Brown and his friends as they attempt to celebrate Thanksgiving with a memorable feast, reminding everyone of the true meaning of the holiday.

  • Best for: Families with young children.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Apple TV+.
  • Question: What is your favorite Thanksgiving tradition?

2. Planes, Trains and Automobiles

This hilarious road trip comedy follows a man trying to get home for Thanksgiving, encountering a series of mishaps along the way that will have you laughing out loud.

  • Best for: Families with older kids and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Paramount+.
  • Question: Have you ever had a travel adventure that went hilariously wrong?

3. Home for the Holidays

A touching and humorous film about a woman who returns home for Thanksgiving with her quirky family, highlighting the ups and downs of family gatherings.

  • Best for: Families and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: What’s the most memorable family gathering you’ve attended?

4. Free Birds

Two turkeys team up to travel back in time to change the course of Thanksgiving history, making for a fun animated adventure for the whole family.

  • Best for: Families with kids.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
  • Question: If you could travel back in time, which historical event would you want to change?

5. The Blind Side

This inspiring true story follows a family’s journey as they take in a homeless teenager, showcasing the importance of love, family, and gratitude during the Thanksgiving season.

  • Best for: Families with teens.
  • Where to Watch: Available on HBO Max.
  • Question: What does family mean to you?

6. Dutch

A heartwarming comedy about a man who drives his girlfriend’s son home for Thanksgiving, leading to unexpected adventures and a growing bond.

  • Best for: Families with older kids.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: What do you think is the best way to bond with someone new?

7. Thankskilling

For those who enjoy dark humor, this slasher comedy features a killer turkey wreaking havoc on a group of friends during Thanksgiving.

  • Best for: Fans of horror-comedy.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Tubi.
  • Question: What’s your favorite type of horror film—scary, funny, or both?

8. The Turkey Bowl

In this charming comedy, a man returns to his hometown to play in a Thanksgiving Day football game against his old rival, reigniting friendships and rivalries.

  • Best for: Families with older kids.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: What’s your favorite Thanksgiving sports tradition?

9. Little Black Book

A comedy that follows a woman who stumbles upon her boyfriend’s secret life, leading to comedic and heartfelt moments that resonate with family dynamics during the holidays.

  • Best for: Families with teens.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: How do you handle secrets within your family?

10. Rocky

This classic sports drama tells the story of an underdog boxer training for a championship fight, culminating in themes of perseverance and gratitude, making it a perfect watch during Thanksgiving.

  • Best for: Families with older kids.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: Who is your favorite sports hero and why?

11. Funny People

This dramedy follows a comedian dealing with his own mortality while reconnecting with friends and family, showcasing humor and heartfelt moments perfect for Thanksgiving viewing.

  • Best for: Adults and older teens.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: How do you balance humor and seriousness in your life?

12. The Family Stone

A heartwarming film about a woman who meets her boyfriend’s family over Thanksgiving, revealing the complexities and joys of family gatherings.

  • Best for: Families with teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: What’s the best way to get along with your partner’s family?

13. The Blind Side

This inspirational true story of a family who adopts a homeless teenager emphasizes the power of love and compassion, making it a perfect holiday viewing choice.

  • Best for: Families with teens.
  • Where to Watch: Available on HBO Max.
  • Question: How can one act of kindness change a person’s life?

14. The Oath

This dark comedy explores family dynamics and the pressures of Thanksgiving, showcasing the absurdities of politics and family gatherings in a humorous light.

  • Best for: Adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: How do you navigate difficult conversations during family gatherings?

15. Pieces of April

A heartfelt indie film about a young woman trying to cook Thanksgiving dinner for her estranged family, focusing on themes of forgiveness and connection.

  • Best for: Families with teens.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: What’s your favorite way to show someone you care?

16. Scent of a Woman

In this powerful drama, a young man spends Thanksgiving with a blind, retired Army officer, discovering life lessons about honor and gratitude.

  • Best for: Families with older kids.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: What life lesson has had the most impact on you?

17. The Princess and the Frog

This enchanting animated film features a young woman dreaming of owning a restaurant, reminding viewers of the importance of hard work and following your dreams during the holidays.

  • Best for: Families with kids.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Disney+.
  • Question: What’s your dream job?

18. The Last Holiday

In this uplifting comedy, a woman discovers she has a terminal illness and decides to live her dreams, focusing on gratitude and making the most of every moment.

  • Best for: Families with older kids.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: If you could do anything for a day, what would it be?

19. The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown

While not strictly a Thanksgiving film, this classic Peanuts special captures the spirit of the season and family traditions, making it a delightful addition to holiday viewing.

  • Best for: Families with young children.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Apple TV+.
  • Question: What’s your favorite holiday character?

20. Over the River and Through the Woods

This family comedy centers on a young man who visits his grandparents for Thanksgiving, leading to funny situations and heartfelt moments.

  • Best for: Families with kids.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: What’s your favorite memory with your grandparents?

21. Addams Family Values

In this darkly comedic sequel, the Addams family welcomes a new baby while facing off against a cunning summer camp counselor, making for a quirky and entertaining Thanksgiving celebration.

  • Best for: Families who enjoy dark humor.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Paramount+.
  • Question: What’s your favorite quirky family tradition?

22. The Muppet Christmas Carol

Although primarily a Christmas movie, the Muppets bring their unique charm to the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, reminding viewers of gratitude and kindness during the holiday season.

  • Best for: Families with kids and Muppet fans.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Disney+.
  • Question: What holiday lesson do you think is the most important?

23. The Santa Clause

This heartwarming comedy follows a man who accidentally becomes Santa Claus after a mishap, leading to funny and touching moments that resonate during Thanksgiving and Christmas alike.

  • Best for: Families with young children.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Disney+.
  • Question: What’s your favorite part of the holiday season?

24. The House of Yes

A dark comedy about a family reunion gone wrong, showcasing the complexities of love and loyalty, it’s perfect for older teens and adults who enjoy unconventional films.

  • Best for: Families with older teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: How do you handle unexpected family drama?

25. The Family Stone

A warm and humorous story about family dynamics during a Thanksgiving gathering, highlighting the importance of acceptance and understanding.

  • Best for: Families with teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: How do you ensure everyone feels welcome during family gatherings?

26. Thanksgiving

In this hilarious comedy, a group of friends gathers for an unconventional Thanksgiving celebration, showcasing the importance of friendship and laughter.

  • Best for: Adults and older teens.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: What’s your favorite way to celebrate with friends?

27. My All-American

This touching drama tells the true story of a college football player whose dreams are shattered, emphasizing the importance of family and support during tough times.

  • Best for: Families with teens.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: How do you support your loved ones during difficult times?

28. A Thanksgiving Reunion

A charming romantic comedy about a woman who returns home for Thanksgiving and unexpectedly reconnects with an old flame, perfect for fans of light-hearted love stories.

  • Best for: Families and young adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: Do you believe in second chances in relationships?

29. The Big Chill

A group of college friends reunites for a Thanksgiving weekend after many years apart, leading to heartfelt conversations and reflections on life.

  • Best for: Adults and older teens.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: What do you think is the most important part of maintaining friendships?

30. Thanksgiving with the Addams Family

Join the Addams family in this animated special that combines humor and the unique spirit of Thanksgiving with their trademark eccentricity.

  • Best for: Families with kids.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: What’s your favorite animated character?

31. The Grown-Ups

A comedy featuring a group of childhood friends who reunite after their basketball coach passes away, focusing on friendship and family during the Thanksgiving holiday.

  • Best for: Families with older kids.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
  • Question: What’s your funniest memory from childhood?

32. The Last Holiday

In this uplifting comedy, a woman learns she has a terminal illness and decides to live her dreams, emphasizing gratitude and seizing the moment during the holiday season.

  • Best for: Families with teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: If you could spend a day doing anything, what would it be?

33. The Incredibles

This animated superhero film highlights family dynamics and teamwork, making it a great pick for Thanksgiving family viewing.

  • Best for: Families with kids.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Disney+.
  • Question: What superpower would you choose if you could have one?

34. The Peanuts Movie

This animated film follows Charlie Brown and his friends as they navigate friendship and self-discovery, perfect for families looking for a heartwarming film during the holidays.

  • Best for: Families with young children.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Disney+.
  • Question: Who is your favorite Peanuts character and why?

35. Sweet Home Alabama

A romantic comedy that follows a woman who returns to her hometown for a divorce, exploring themes of love, nostalgia, and family ties during Thanksgiving.

  • Best for: Families with older kids and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: What’s your favorite thing about going back home?

36. The Longest Yard

This comedy centers on a former football player who ends up in prison and leads a team of inmates against the guards, showcasing teamwork and resilience.

  • Best for: Families with older teens.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: How do you feel about competition—friendly or fierce?

37. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey

This animated adventure tells the story of two dogs and a cat trying to find their way home, emphasizing loyalty and family love—great for Thanksgiving viewing.

  • Best for: Families with kids.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Disney+.
  • Question: If you could be any animal for a day, which one would you choose?

38. The Great Race

In this comedic adventure, a race across the world leads to hilarious mishaps and unforgettable moments, showcasing the importance of teamwork and friendship.

  • Best for: Families with older kids.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: What’s the craziest adventure you’ve ever been on?

39. The Polar Express

This animated film takes children on a magical train ride to the North Pole, emphasizing the importance of belief and family during the holiday season.

  • Best for: Families with young children.
  • Where to Watch: Available on HBO Max.
  • Question: What do you believe makes the holiday season special?

40. Four Christmases

In this comedy, a couple must visit all four of their divorced parents during the holiday season, leading to unexpected humor and heartfelt moments.

  • Best for: Families with older teens.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: How do you manage family expectations during the holidays?

41. Planes, Trains and Automobiles

This classic comedy follows a man trying to reach his family for Thanksgiving, encountering hilarious and frustrating obstacles along the way, making it a must-watch for the holiday season.

  • Best for: Families with older kids and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: What’s the most memorable journey you’ve ever taken?

42. Home for the Holidays

A heartfelt dramedy about a woman who returns home for Thanksgiving, navigating family dynamics and unexpected surprises, reminding us of the importance of love and connection.

  • Best for: Families with teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: How do you keep the peace during family gatherings?

43. Free Birds

This animated adventure follows two turkeys who team up to travel back in time to change the course of history and save their species from Thanksgiving dinner.

  • Best for: Families with young children.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
  • Question: If you could change one holiday tradition, what would it be?

44. Little Fockers

In this comedic sequel, family dynamics take center stage as tensions rise during a family gathering, offering laughs and relatable moments for the holiday season.

  • Best for: Families with older teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: How do you balance humor and seriousness during family time?

45. The Blind Side

Based on a true story, this inspiring film showcases the bond between a caring woman and a troubled teen, highlighting themes of family, love, and support during tough times.

  • Best for: Families with teens.
  • Where to Watch: Available on HBO Max.
  • Question: Who has been your biggest supporter in life?

46. Miracle on 34th Street

Though primarily a Christmas movie, this classic begins with a Thanksgiving theme, exploring themes of belief, love, and the spirit of the holiday season.

  • Best for: Families with young children.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Disney+.
  • Question: What do you think makes someone truly “believe”?

47. Thanksgiving: A History

This documentary explores the origins and evolution of Thanksgiving in America, offering an educational yet entertaining viewing experience for the whole family.

  • Best for: Families with teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: What part of Thanksgiving history surprises you the most?

48. The Family Stone

A touching ensemble comedy-drama about family dynamics and acceptance, showing the challenges and joys of gathering together during the holidays.

  • Best for: Families with older teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: How do you express your gratitude during the holidays?

49. Nutcracker: The Motion Picture

A beautifully animated adaptation of the classic Nutcracker story, showcasing stunning visuals and an enchanting storyline perfect for the holiday season.

  • Best for: Families with young children.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: What’s your favorite holiday story?

50. Bigger Than the Sky

This heartwarming tale follows a man who discovers the true meaning of life and love during a Thanksgiving gathering with his friends and family.

  • Best for: Families with teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: What life lessons do you cherish the most?

51. Knives Out

A modern twist on the classic whodunit, this film takes place during a family gathering where secrets are revealed, making it perfect for families who love mysteries.

  • Best for: Families with older teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: How would you solve a mystery in your own family?

52. The Thanksgiving House

A romantic drama about a woman who inherits a historic house and learns about her family’s past while celebrating Thanksgiving, blending romance and nostalgia beautifully.

  • Best for: Families with older teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: If you could inherit any family heirloom, what would it be?

53. Pieces of April

This indie film follows a young woman who invites her estranged family to her tiny New York City apartment for Thanksgiving, exploring themes of love and reconciliation.

  • Best for: Families with older teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: How do you handle family disagreements during the holidays?

54. Charlie Brown Thanksgiving

Join Charlie Brown and his friends as they celebrate Thanksgiving in their own unique way, teaching lessons about friendship and gratitude in a fun, animated format.

  • Best for: Families with young children.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Apple TV+.
  • Question: What’s your favorite way to celebrate with friends?

55. Home Alone

Though primarily a Christmas film, this holiday favorite about a boy left behind at home during the holidays has plenty of Thanksgiving charm with its themes of family and togetherness.

  • Best for: Families with kids.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Disney+.
  • Question: What would you do if you were home alone for a holiday?

56. The Odd Life of Timothy Green

A heartwarming tale about a couple who wish for a child and get an unexpected surprise, emphasizing the importance of family and love during the holiday season.

  • Best for: Families with kids and teens.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Disney+.
  • Question: What does family mean to you?

57. Love at the Thanksgiving Day Parade

A romantic comedy about a woman who runs the Thanksgiving parade and meets a man who challenges her ideas about love, making it a sweet holiday viewing.

  • Best for: Families and young adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: What do you think makes a great romantic story?

58. Thanksgiving Family Reunion

In this heartwarming comedy, a family comes together for Thanksgiving, showcasing their unique dynamics and the love that binds them.

  • Best for: Families with kids.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: What’s your favorite memory from family reunions?

59. The Thanksgiving Promise

A touching drama about family, love, and promises made during Thanksgiving, perfect for families looking for emotional depth in their holiday films.

  • Best for: Families with older teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: What promise do you cherish the most?

60. The Turkey Bowl

A fun comedy about a group of childhood friends who come together for a Thanksgiving football game, reigniting old rivalries and friendships.

  • Best for: Families with teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: What’s your favorite sports memory?

61. The Big Chill

This ensemble film brings together college friends who reunite after the death of a friend, exploring themes of nostalgia, relationships, and the meaning of life, making it a great watch during the holidays.

  • Best for: Families with older teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: How do you keep friendships alive over the years?

62. The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown

While primarily a Halloween special, it contains themes of friendship and family that resonate during Thanksgiving, making it a delightful watch for all ages.

  • Best for: Families with young children.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Apple TV+.
  • Question: What’s your favorite holiday tradition?

63. Thanksgiving Day

This family film focuses on the chaos and fun that ensue when a big Thanksgiving feast brings together a colorful cast of characters.

  • Best for: Families with kids.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: What’s your most chaotic family gathering like?

64. My Boyfriend’s Back

A unique blend of comedy and horror, this film tells the story of a boy who comes back from the dead to win over the girl he loves, showcasing themes of love and acceptance.

  • Best for: Families with older teens.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: If you could bring someone back for the holidays, who would it be?

65. Thanksgiving at the Old Bailey

This historical drama offers a look into the lives of people in a small town during Thanksgiving, showcasing the beauty of family and community.

  • Best for: Families with older teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: What role does community play in your holiday celebrations?

66. Unaccompanied Minors

A comedic adventure about a group of kids stranded at an airport during the holiday season, who band together to create their own Thanksgiving experience.

  • Best for: Families with kids and teens.
  • Where to Watch: Available on HBO Max.
  • Question: What would you do to make a holiday special?

67. Son in Law

A lighthearted comedy about a college student who visits her family for Thanksgiving with her eccentric friend, leading to unexpected laughs and lessons about family.

  • Best for: Families with teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: How do you handle surprises during family visits?

68. The Thanksgiving Promise

A touching film about family love and forgiveness, centering on a daughter who learns the importance of family while preparing for Thanksgiving.

  • Best for: Families with older teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: What family values do you hold dear?

69. Thanksgiving with a Twist

This lighthearted comedy follows a family navigating holiday mishaps while discovering the true meaning of Thanksgiving and togetherness.

  • Best for: Families with kids.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: What unexpected moments have made your holidays memorable?

70. The Last Holiday

A feel-good film about a woman who learns she has a terminal illness and decides to live life to the fullest during her last holiday season, celebrating love and joy.

  • Best for: Families with older teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on HBO Max.
  • Question: What would you do if you had one last holiday to celebrate?

71. The Muppet Christmas Carol

While technically a Christmas film, the Muppets’ humor and heart can bring family warmth and laughter to any holiday, including Thanksgiving.

  • Best for: Families with kids.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Disney+.
  • Question: Which Muppet character do you relate to the most?

72. The Family Man

A holiday favorite about a man who wakes up to discover an alternate life where he chose family over career, offering a heartwarming perspective on love and commitment.

  • Best for: Families with older teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: What would you change about your life if you had the chance?

73. The Princess Switch

A romantic comedy where a baker and a princess switch lives during the holidays, bringing humor and charm to the Thanksgiving season.

  • Best for: Families with teens.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
  • Question: What’s your favorite twist in a movie?

74. The Night Before

A hilarious comedy about three childhood friends who reunite for one last wild night of holiday fun before settling down, blending laughter with heartwarming moments.

  • Best for: Families with older teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: How do you keep your friendships strong as you grow older?

75. Mickey’s Magical Christmas: Snowed in at the House of Mouse

This animated holiday film features beloved Disney characters coming together for a festive celebration, perfect for families with young children.

  • Best for: Families with young children.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Disney+.
  • Question: Who is your favorite Disney character during the holidays?

76. A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving

In this animated classic, Charlie Brown hosts a unique Thanksgiving feast for his friends, teaching valuable lessons about friendship and gratitude.

  • Best for: Families with young children.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Apple TV+.
  • Question: What’s your favorite Charlie Brown moment?

77. Home for Christmas

A romantic comedy about a woman who returns home for the holidays and rekindles a romance with an old flame, filled with sweet moments and laughs.

  • Best for: Families with teens.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
  • Question: Do you believe in second chances when it comes to love?

78. Thanksgiving at the Old Bailey

This historical drama highlights the importance of family and community during Thanksgiving, offering heartwarming stories of resilience and love.

  • Best for: Families with older teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: What do you appreciate most about your family history?

79. A Family Thanksgiving

A woman learns the importance of family and love when she finds herself in an alternate life, emphasizing the value of relationships during the holidays.

  • Best for: Families with older teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
  • Question: How do you prioritize family during the holiday rush?

80. Thanksgiving in a Day

This documentary explores various Thanksgiving celebrations across the country, showcasing the diversity of traditions and food that make this holiday special.

  • Best for: Families with teens and adults.
  • Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
  • Question: What unique traditions does your family celebrate on Thanksgiving?

Celebrate Thanksgiving with These Family-Friendly Movies!

These Thanksgiving movies capture the essence of family, friendship, and gratitude, making them perfect for your holiday viewing. So, gather your loved ones, prepare some snacks, and enjoy these heartwarming films that remind us of the joy and warmth of the Thanksgiving season!

Movie Lover

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