Best Thanksgiving Movies on Netflix to Watch This Holiday
As the crisp autumn air settles in and the aroma of roasted turkey fills the kitchen, there's a special feeling of warmth and togetherness that comes with the Thanksgiving season. It's a time for families to gather, share stories, and express gratitude for the blessings in their lives. And what better way to enhance the festive spirit than by cozying up with loved ones and enjoying some heartwarming movies?
Netflix offers a delightful array of Thanksgiving-themed films that cater to audiences of all ages. From classic comedies to touching dramas, these movies capture the essence of the holiday and celebrate the joy of family bonds. So this Thanksgiving, why not carve out some quality time with your loved ones and embark on a cinematic journey filled with laughter, tears, and plenty of memorable moments? Here are some handpicked Netflix Thanksgiving movies that are perfect for the whole family to enjoy together and disconnect from the holiday rush for a bit!
Best Thanksgiving Movies on Netflix to Watch This Holiday
Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and of course, delicious food. But after the turkey has been carved and the pie has been devoured, what better way to wind down than with a cozy movie night? Netflix offers a plethora of films perfect for the Thanksgiving season, whether you're in the mood for heartwarming family dramas, hilarious comedies, or heart-tugging stories of gratitude and friendship.
Thanksgiving is a time for families to come together and enjoy each other's company, and watching movies can be a great way to bond. While there aren't as many Thanksgiving-specific movies as there are for other holidays like Halloween movies or Christmas specials / movies, there are still plenty of films that capture the spirit of Thanksgiving and are suitable for family viewing and enjoy a football game, Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade, and some of the best Thanksgiving movies after the Thanksgiving feast is over. Watching the perfect Thanksgiving movie all November long is a great way to get in the holiday spirit and I highly recommend watching movies and relaxing on Black Friday too!
There are so many easy and fun craft ideas for Thanksgiving to enjoy with your children, grandchildren or classroom! These Free Printable Thanksgiving Place Mat printables are perfect to keep kids busy while waiting for the Thanksgiving meal to be ready! I love doing this Free Kids Handprint Easy Turkey Craft for Thanksgiving and seeing how much their hands have grown each year with Thanksgiving art activities. 9 DIY Acorn Crafts for Kids Easy Thanksgiving and Fall are a fun list of fun activities to gather items from the yard and get crafty! DIY Thanksgiving Clay Pot Turkey fun crafts makes a great gift for grandparents too!
What is your favorite Thanksgiving table menu item and food? My grandma's delicious food is the absolute best and I think about her big family Thanksgiving dinner all year long! Best Thanksgiving Easy Casserole Recipes to Make This Year give you some delicious options to make for Thanksgiving meals at home or to take with you to a host! Savory Sweet Potato Casserole Recipes You Must Try are my favorite to make all fall and Thanksgiving season long! Best Apple Pie Recipes for Thanksgiving are delicious to make after a long day of apple picking. Apple recipes are perfect for turkey day.
If you are looking to satisfy a sweet tooth make these Turkey Brownies: Easy Thanksgiving Dessert options and let the kids help you decorate for a fun filled evening in Thanksgiving food! Parents will love these 16 Perfect Pumpkin Fall Season Drinks and Recipes to Try and your family will go nuts over these Rice Krispie Mini Pumpkin Pie Recipe treats.
Whether you are looking for an old-fashioned Thanksgiving story or a silly story about a poor turkey, there are so many perfect Thanksgiving picture books and options for everyone. Kick off the holiday season with family traditions like reading some of the best Thanksgiving books with beautiful illustrations. Watching Thanksgiving movies all November long is a great way to get in the spirit and I highly recommend watching movies and relaxing on Black Friday too!
These Thanksgiving board books should provide a delightful way to introduce Thanksgiving themes and traditions to young children. Remember to check for the latest releases and reviews to find the best options for your child's age and interests and for the whole family. These little turkey books offer a wide range of Thanksgiving-themed stories, from historical accounts to playful and humorous tales, making them suitable for different age groups and reading preferences. Creating Thanksgiving-themed DIY bookmarks is a fun and creative craft project for kids. Decorating, creating and coloring these Thanksgiving bookmarks is a perfect coloring activity for older kids and adults! Gather markers, crayons, and colored pencils and sit down for fun fall activities like making new bookmarks with your thankful turkey! We love making seasonal bookmarks at our house and one can never have too many bookmarks.
Creating Thanksgiving traditions with kids and entire family can be a wonderful way to instill a sense of gratitude, togetherness, and fun into the holiday. Here are some ideas for Thanksgiving traditions that families can enjoy with children:
Gratitude Jar: Start a tradition of gratitude by having each family member write down something they're thankful for on a slip of paper and placing it in a decorated jar. Take turns reading aloud from the jar during Thanksgiving dinner, fostering a spirit of appreciation and reflection.
Thanksgiving Crafts: Set aside time before the big day to engage in Thanksgiving-themed crafts and cozy fall vibes with your kids. From handprint turkeys to paper plate pilgrims, there are endless creative activities that can serve as both decorations and keepsakes for years to come.
Family Volunteer Day: Teach your children the value of giving back by participating in a family volunteer activity leading up to Thanksgiving. Whether it's serving meals at a local shelter, collecting donations for a food drive, or making cards for nursing home residents, volunteering as a family can foster empathy and compassion.
Pajama Parade: Start Thanksgiving morning with a festive pajama parade around the house or neighborhood. Let the kids decorate their own "parade floats" (think wagons or strollers) with Thanksgiving-themed decorations, and don't forget to play some lively music to accompany the procession.
Thanksgiving Storytime: Gather the family for a special Thanksgiving storytime session. Choose books that celebrate the holiday and its themes of gratitude, friendship, and family. Encourage kids to share their favorite parts of the stories and discuss what they're thankful for afterward for the first Thanksgiving and beyond.
Outdoor Adventure: If weather permits, spend some time outdoors as a family on Thanksgiving Day. Take a nature walk to admire the fall foliage, play a game of touch football in the backyard, or organize a scavenger hunt with Thanksgiving-themed clues.
Kids' Table Traditions: Make the kids' table a fun and festive place to be by incorporating special traditions just for them. Provide Thanksgiving-themed coloring pages, activity books, or puzzles to keep them entertained during dinner. You can also encourage them to create their own mini Thanksgiving feast using play food or craft supplies.
Thanksgiving Movie Marathon: After dinner, cozy up on the couch for a Thanksgiving perfect movie marathon featuring family-friendly films. From classic cartoons to heartwarming tales of gratitude, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Don't forget the popcorn and blankets!
Family Recipe Exchange: Get the whole family involved in meal preparation by hosting a recipe exchange. Have each family member contribute their favorite Thanksgiving dish or dessert recipe, and then take turns cooking and sharing the dishes together. It's a great way to pass down family holidays and traditions and create new ones.
Gratitude Circle: End the day on a meaningful note by gathering as a family for a gratitude circle before bedtime. Take turns sharing something you're thankful for from the day, whether it's a special moment shared with loved ones or a simple pleasure like a delicious meal. This tradition can help reinforce the true spirit of Thanksgiving and create lasting memories for years to come.
16 Heartwarming Thanksgiving Movies on Netflix for Family Bonding
Thanksgiving is a time for family gatherings, delicious meals, and heartfelt moments. What better way to celebrate the spirit of gratitude and togetherness than by cozying up with your loved ones and enjoying some heartwarming movies? Netflix series offers a treasure trove of Thanksgiving-themed films that are perfect for all ages. Whether you're in the mood for comedy, drama, or a little bit of both, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Here are 10 must-watch Thanksgiving movies on Netflix for families:
Jack and Jill (2011): Directed by Dennis Dugan, "Jack and Jill" is a comedy film starring Adam Sandler in dual roles as both Jack and his twin sister, Jill. The story revolves around Jack's attempts to survive Thanksgiving weekend with his annoying sister visiting. Alongside Sandler, the film features Katie Holmes, Al Pacino, and Dana Carvey in supporting roles. While the film received mixed reviews, Sandler's comedic performances garnered attention.
Ice Storm (1997): Directed by Ang Lee, "Ice Storm" is a drama set in the 1970s that explores the dysfunctional relationships of two suburban families over Thanksgiving weekend. Kevin Kline stars as Ben Hood, a father dealing with personal and marital struggles, alongside an ensemble cast including Joan Allen, Sigourney Weaver, and Christina Ricci. The film received critical acclaim for its nuanced portrayal of complex characters and themes.
The Myth of Fingerprints (1997): Directed by Bart Freundlich, "The Myth of Fingerprints" is a family drama that unfolds during a Thanksgiving reunion of the dysfunctional family. The film stars Roy Scheider, Blythe Danner, and Julianne Moore, and explores themes of family dynamics, secrets, and reconciliation. Freundlich's direction and the performances of the ensemble cast received praise for their authenticity and emotional depth.
The Vicious Kind (2009): Directed by Lee Toland Krieger, "The Vicious Kind" is a dark comedy-drama centered around a tumultuous Thanksgiving gathering. Adam Scott stars as Caleb Sinclaire, a troubled man who becomes involved in a complicated love triangle during the holiday weekend. The film also features Brittany Snow, J.K. Simmons, and Alex Frost, and received acclaim for its raw performances and intense emotional storytelling.
Avalon (1990): Directed by Barry Levinson, "Avalon" is a drama that follows the immigrant Krichinsky family over several generations as they struggle to adapt to life in America. The film spans from the early 20th century to the 1960s, with Thanksgiving serving as a recurring backdrop for family gatherings and traditions. Armin Mueller-Stahl, Aidan Quinn, and Elizabeth Perkins deliver standout performances in this poignant exploration of the American Dream and the evolution of family bonds.
Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987): Directed by John Hughes, this classic comedy stars Steve Martin and John Candy as two mismatched travelers trying to make it home for Thanksgiving. Filled with hilarious mishaps and touching moments, it's a timeless tale of friendship and gratitude that showcases the comedic talents of Martin and Candy under Hughes' direction.
Free Birds (2013): Directed by Jimmy Hayward, "Free Birds" is an animated adventure featuring the voices of Owen Wilson, Woody Harrelson, and Amy Poehler. The film follows two turkeys who travel back in time to change the course of history and save their kind from becoming Thanksgiving dinner. With its colorful animation and entertaining storyline, it's a hit with audiences of all ages.
The Blind Side (2009): Directed by John Lee Hancock, "The Blind Side" stars Sandra Bullock and Quinton Aaron in a heartwarming drama based on a true story. Bullock portrays Leigh Anne Tuohy, a woman who takes in a homeless teenager, played by Aaron, and helps him fulfill his potential as a football player. While not strictly a Thanksgiving movie, its themes of love, acceptance, and generosity resonate with the holiday spirit.
Pieces of April (2003): Directed by Peter Hedges, "Pieces of April" stars Katie Holmes as April, a young woman determined to host the perfect Thanksgiving dinner for her estranged family. As she navigates kitchen disasters and family drama, she learns valuable lessons about forgiveness and the true meaning of family. Holmes delivers a compelling performance in this heartfelt and intimate film.
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973): Directed by Bill Melendez, "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving" is a beloved animated special based on Charles M. Schulz's "Peanuts" comic strip. The iconic voices of Peter Robbins as Charlie Brown and Bill Melendez as Snoopy bring the characters to life as they celebrate Thanksgiving with a makeshift feast. With its charming animation and timeless humor, it's a holiday classic for the whole family to enjoy.
The House of Yes (1997): Directed by Mark Waters, this dark comedy features a dysfunctional family gathering for Thanksgiving dinner. Starring Parker Posey, Josh Hamilton, and Tori Spelling, the film delves into themes of obsession, deception, and family dynamics. Mark Waters' direction brings out the eccentricities of the characters, keeping the audience guessing until the very end.
Dutch (1991): Directed by Peter Faiman, "Dutch" stars Ed O'Neill and Ethan Embry in a heartwarming road trip comedy about family and redemption. With John Hughes penning the screenplay, the film features memorable performances from its cast, including JoBeth Williams and Christopher McDonald. Faiman's direction infuses the story with humor and heart, making it a Thanksgiving classic.
Hannah and Her Sisters (1986): Directed by Woody Allen, this ensemble comedy-drama boasts an all-star cast including Mia Farrow, Barbara Hershey, and Dianne Wiest. Allen's signature wit and insight into human relationships shine through as the film explores themes of love, infidelity, and existential angst. With its multi-layered storytelling and standout performances, "Hannah and Her Sisters" remains one of Allen's most acclaimed works.
Home for the Holidays (1995): Directed by Jodie Foster, "Home for the Holidays" features an ensemble cast led by Holly Hunter, Robert Downey Jr., and Anne Bancroft. Foster's sensitive direction captures the chaos and warmth of a family reunion during Thanksgiving weekend, while the talented cast brings the characters to life with authenticity and humor. The film's heartfelt portrayal of family dynamics and holiday traditions resonates with audiences of all ages.
The Oath (2018): Directed by Ike Barinholtz, "The Oath" is a dark comedy starring Barinholtz alongside Tiffany Haddish and Nora Dunn. Barinholtz's sharp writing and direction infuse the film with biting satire as it explores themes of political division and loyalty. With its timely storyline and standout performances, "The Oath" offers a thought-provoking and entertaining take on the challenges of navigating family dynamics during the holiday season.
The Turkey Bowl (2019): The Turkey Bowl, directed by Greg Coolidge, is a family-friendly comedy that centers around a small-town community's annual Thanksgiving flag football game. Starring Ryan Hansen, Matt Jones, and Kristen Hager, the film follows the humorous and heartwarming antics of the players as they compete for bragging rights in the quirky tradition. While not strictly an animated movie, "The Turkey Bowl" features animated sequences that add charm and visual flair to the story. Coolidge's direction brings out the camaraderie and competitive spirit of the characters, making it a charming and entertaining Thanksgiving film for audiences of all ages.
Whether you're looking for laughs, tears, or a little bit of both, these Thanksgiving movies on Netflix are perfect for family movie nights. So grab some popcorn, gather your loved ones, and get ready for a memorable holiday viewing experience!
Whether you're in the mood for laughter, tears, or a little bit of both, Netflix has you covered with these top Thanksgiving movie picks. From classic comedies to heartfelt dramas, these films are sure to add a touch of warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations. So, grab a cozy blanket, gather your loved ones, and settle in for a movie marathon that's sure to become a new Thanksgiving tradition.
As the credits roll and the last echoes of laughter fade away, the magic of Thanksgiving movies on Netflix lingers, leaving behind a warm glow of shared experiences and cherished memories. Whether you found yourself laughing at the antics of mismatched travelers, shedding a tear at tales of love and forgiveness, or simply reveling in the joy of family togetherness, each film has left its mark on your heart.
So as you gather around the table for Thanksgiving dinner, take a moment to reflect on the lessons learned and the bonds strengthened through the power of storytelling. For in the end, it's not just the movies we watch, but the moments we share with those we love that truly make this season special. Here's to many more movie nights, heartfelt conversations, and joyous celebrations with family and friends. Happy Thanksgiving!
