The Best Movies to Stream this Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is about more than just turkey and pumpkin pie—it's a time to slow down, reconnect with family and friends, and indulge in some cozy, feel-good entertainment. Whether you're watching with a crowd after the big meal or enjoying a solo wind-down on the couch, the right movie can make your Thanksgiving break even more memorable. Here’s a roundup of the best movies to watch over the holiday weekend, covering everything from family-friendly classics to laugh-out-loud comedies and heartwarming dramas.
1. Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
Streaming on: Paramount+ or for rent on most platforms
This John Hughes classic is arguably the ultimate Thanksgiving movie. Steve Martin and John Candy star as two mismatched travelers desperately trying to get home for the holiday. Packed with hilarious mishaps and genuine heart, it's a perfect mix of comedy and sentimentality.
2. A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
Streaming on: Apple TV+
A must-watch for all ages, this Peanuts special captures the spirit of the holiday with warmth and charm. Snoopy’s unconventional Thanksgiving dinner (toast and jellybeans, anyone?) has become iconic, and the message of gratitude and togetherness still resonates.
3. Home for the Holidays (1995)
Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video
Directed by Jodie Foster, this often-overlooked gem stars Holly Hunter as a woman navigating a dysfunctional family Thanksgiving. It’s heartfelt, chaotic, and painfully relatable—everything a real Thanksgiving sometimes is.
4. The Blind Side (2009)
Streaming on: Max, Netflix
This inspirational true story about NFL player Michael Oher and the family who took him in is perfect for Thanksgiving. It’s a moving film about generosity, kindness, and what it truly means to be a family.
5. Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
Streaming on: Disney+
Wes Anderson’s beautifully animated film isn’t specifically about Thanksgiving, but its earthy autumnal aesthetic, themes of family, and quirky humor make it an ideal choice for the holiday weekend.
6. Knives Out (2019)
Streaming on: Prime Video, Peacock
If your Thanksgiving dinner includes spirited family debates, Knives Out is the perfect watch. This modern whodunit mixes mystery, laughs, and just enough drama to be entertaining without getting too heavy.
7. Little Women (2019)
Streaming on: Netflix
With themes of family, sacrifice, and ambition wrapped in a lush 19th-century setting, Greta Gerwig’s Little Women is a beautiful choice for a quiet post-meal viewing. The warm visuals and emotional depth hit just right during the holiday season.
8. You've Got Mail (1998)
Streaming on: Max
Set during fall in New York City, this romantic comedy starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan is cozy, charming, and filled with autumn vibes. It’s not a Thanksgiving movie per se, but it feels like one.
9. Addams Family Values (1993)
Streaming on: Paramount+
This dark comedy features one of the most memorable Thanksgiving pageants ever filmed. Wednesday Addams steals the show in a hilariously subversive scene, making it a quirky addition to your holiday watchlist.
10. Dutch (1991)
Streaming on: For rent on Amazon or Apple TV
Another Thanksgiving road trip movie, Dutch is about a man (Ed O’Neill) trying to bond with his girlfriend’s snobby son while getting him home for the holiday. It’s funny, heartfelt, and perfect for fans of '90s comedy.
Final Thoughts
Thanksgiving is all about feeling grateful and finding comfort—and these movies deliver just that. Whether you're in the mood to laugh, cry, or simply enjoy a feel-good story, there’s something here to make your Thanksgiving viewing lineup as satisfying as the meal itself.
So grab a plate of leftovers, curl up with a blanket, and press play. Happy Thanksgiving
