When the turkey is done, the dishes are (mostly) clean, and you’re too full to move, there’s only one thing left to do: pick a movie and settle in.
Thanksgiving movies might not dominate the seasonal spotlight like their Halloween or Christmas counterparts.
Still, for our American readers celebrating the holiday, we’d like to wish you a very happy Thanksgiving!
There’s a surprisingly rich selection out there.
Whether you’re into heartfelt family tales, chaotic comedies, or even something a little darker, this list has something for everyone.
Classics to Kick Off the Holiday Spirit
1. Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
Steve Martin and John Candy’s misadventures while trying to get home for Thanksgiving have made this a holiday staple.
Equal parts hilarious and heartfelt, it’s the perfect reminder of the season’s chaos and warmth.
2. A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
This animated classic has been charming families for decades with its quirky table setting and themes of friendship.
Pro tip: serve popcorn and toast alongside your pumpkin pie for full immersion.
3. Home for the Holidays (1995)
Holly Hunter navigates family dysfunction in this sharp and warm dramedy.
With a cast featuring Robert Downey Jr. and Anne Bancroft, it’s as relatable as it is entertaining.
4. Dutch (1991)
Ed O’Neill’s road trip with his girlfriend’s bratty son offers laughs and heartfelt moments, making it a Thanksgiving underdog worth revisiting.
5. The Blind Side (2009)
While not strictly a Thanksgiving movie, this story of love and family features a touching holiday scene that adds to its heartwarming charm.
Animated Favourites for All Ages
6. Free Birds (2013)
Two turkeys, voiced by Owen Wilson and Woody Harrelson, travel back in time to remove turkey from the Thanksgiving menu. Hilarity ensues.
7. Garfield’s Thanksgiving (1989)
Garfield on a diet during Thanksgiving? The irony alone makes this animated special worth a watch.
8. Chicken Run (2000)
While it’s more about poultry liberation, this claymation gem feels oddly fitting for the season.
9. Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
Wes Anderson’s whimsical tale of a crafty fox provides cosy, autumnal vibes that pair beautifully with a slice of pecan pie.
Comedies for the Dysfunctional Family Vibes
10. Addams Family Values (1993)
The Thanksgiving play scene alone, with Wednesday Addams’ iconic rebellion, makes this dark comedy a must-watch.
11. Friendsgiving (2020)
This chaotic comedy captures the modern-day “chosen family” Thanksgiving, complete with awkward moments and laugh-out-loud mishaps.
12. Son in Law (1993)
Pauly Shore brings his over-the-top antics to a small-town Thanksgiving. It’s ridiculous, but that’s part of its charm.
13. The Oath (2018)
What happens when a politically divided family gathers for Thanksgiving? Chaos.
Tiffany Haddish and Ike Barinholtz deliver biting satire with a side of stuffing.
Heartfelt Family Dramas
14. Pieces of April (2003)
Katie Holmes stars as a black-sheep daughter hosting her family for Thanksgiving in her tiny New York apartment.
It’s raw, touching, and surprisingly funny.
15. Scent of a Woman (1992)
Set over Thanksgiving weekend, Al Pacino’s Oscar-winning performance anchors this drama about mentorship and redemption.
16. The Family Stone (2005)
Love, loss, and clashing personalities come together in this holiday family drama featuring Diane Keaton and Sarah Jessica Parker.
17. The Humans (2021)
A raw, unsettling portrayal of a family Thanksgiving dinner in a creaky Manhattan apartment. Expect tension and impeccable performances.
Thanksgiving with a Twist
18. Trading Places (1983)
Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd’s hilarious tale of swapped lives features an unforgettable Thanksgiving moment (jive turkey, anyone?).
19. Hannah and Her Sisters (1986)
This Woody Allen classic bookends its drama-filled narrative with two Thanksgiving dinners, highlighting family ties and tensions.
20. The Ice Storm (1997)
Set during Thanksgiving in 1973, this haunting drama delves into family dysfunction and societal shifts. It’s beautiful, but heavy.
Underrated Gems
21. Hollidaysburg (2014)
This indie gem follows college students returning home for Thanksgiving, navigating nostalgia and new realities.
22. Krisha (2015)
A recovering alcoholic reunites with her family for Thanksgiving in this emotionally raw indie drama.
23. The Myth of Fingerprints (1997)
This quiet, reflective film captures the complexities of family gatherings over the holiday.
24. Avalon (1990)
Barry Levinson’s nostalgic drama about an immigrant family captures the essence of Thanksgiving traditions and tensions.
Crowd-Pleasing Hits
25. You’ve Got Mail (1998)
Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks’ romantic comedy may not scream Thanksgiving, but its cosy autumn vibes fit the bill.
26. Silver Linings Playbook (2012)
Thanksgiving dinner plays a key role in this quirky, heartfelt story of love and second chances.
27. Dan in Real Life (2007)
Steve Carell’s touching performance as a widowed father shines in this family-centric dramedy.
28. Grumpy Old Men (1993)
Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau’s antics are perfect for some post-dinner laughs.
For the Adventurous Spirits
29. The Last Waltz (1978)
Thanksgiving concerts aren’t a typical tradition, but this iconic rock documentary by Martin Scorsese is worth a watch.
30. The Turkey Bowl (2019)
A light-hearted comedy about reliving high school football glory over Thanksgiving weekend.
31. March of the Wooden Soldiers (1934)
A Thanksgiving Day classic for some, this vintage film offers a whimsical escape.
Movies You Didn’t Know Fit the Theme
32. Spider-Man (2002)
The Thanksgiving dinner scene with Peter Parker and Norman Osborn adds a tense holiday layer to this superhero classic.
33. Instant Family (2018)
Thanksgiving is the backdrop to this heartwarming story of foster care and new beginnings.
34. Tower Heist (2011)
A Thanksgiving weekend heist during the Macy’s parade? Sign us up.
35. Sweet November (2001)
A romantic drama with a November setting that tugs at the heartstrings.
Honourable Mentions
36. Little Women (1994, 2019)
Thanksgiving themes of gratitude and family are beautifully woven into this beloved tale.
37. About a Boy (2002)
While not explicitly about Thanksgiving, its heartfelt exploration of connection and gratitude fits the mood.
38. The Joy Luck Club (1993)
A poignant tale of family and tradition, with scenes that resonate deeply during the holiday season.
39. Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2016)
Magical and autumnal, this is a fun watch for Potterheads during Thanksgiving.
40. The House of Yes (1997)
A darkly comedic look at family gatherings gone terribly, hilariously wrong.
So, grab a plate of leftovers, press play, and let the Thanksgiving magic (and madness) begin. What will you be watching this year?
