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Thanksgiving Movie Night Movies

Step into the enchanting world of  as we guide you through a handpicked selection of heartwarming family films, timeless holiday classics, and exciting new additions to your cherished Thanksgiving Movie Night Movies Thanksgiving tradition.

Movie night at back yard with text: "Thanksgiving Movie Night Movies"

Enjoy a night of laughter and joy as you and your family share these classic films together. Gather around and enjoy a night of memories that will last a lifetime.

What movies should I watch on a Thanksgiving movie night? 

When selecting movies for your Thanksgiving movie night, consider the audience's preferences and the desired mood. Opt for heartwarming family films or classics to evoke nostalgia. Comedies bring laughter, while dramas provide depth and reflection.

Animated films entertain the kids, and romantic stories can add a touch of warmth. Ultimately, choose movies that resonate with your guests, ensuring an enjoyable and memorable Thanksgiving movie night for all.

What do most people watch on Thanksgiving?

On Thanksgiving, most people typically watch a mix of traditional and themed content. This includes the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, NFL football games, and various holiday-related specials.

Families often enjoy classics and heartwarming movies, providing a diverse selection of entertainment to suit all age groups and tastes. These shared programs bring generations together in the spirit of gratitude and celebration during the holiday.

What movies have a Thanksgiving theme?

Immerse yourself in the spirit of Thanksgiving with this curated list of movies that revolve around this special holiday. Whether you're looking for a classic film, a comedy to lighten the mood or a heartwarming family drama, this list has something for every movie lover.

RELATED:  Thanksgiving Movies on Hulu

Thanksgiving Movie Night Movies

Here are our picks:

The Gold Rush (1925)
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Charles Chaplin, Mack Swain, Tom Murray (Actors)

The Gold Rush (1925)

Set during the Klondike Gold Rush, it follows the iconic character, the Tramp, as he faces the challenges of the harsh wilderness in pursuit of fortune. 

While not explicitly centered around Thanksgiving, the film's themes of resilience, friendship, and the pursuit of happiness align with the spirit of Thanksgiving, making it a heartwarming choice for holiday viewing.

Krisha
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Krisha Fairchild, Trey Edward Shults, Olivia Grace Applegate (Actors)

Krisha (2015)

Krisha is a drama film written and directed by Trey Edward Shults. The story revolves around Krisha, a troubled woman who returns to her family for Thanksgiving after being absent for many years.

Her presence disrupts the family dynamic, and the film explores themes of addiction, forgiveness, and the complexities of familial relationships. 

The movie is known for its intense portrayal of personal struggles and the impact of unresolved issues within a family during a holiday gathering.

Fantastic Mr. Fox
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • George Clooney, Meryl Streep, Jason Schwartzman (Actors)

Fantastic Mr. Fox

Fantastic Mr. Fox is a delightful animated film where Mr. Fox's return to thieving jeopardizes his family and friends. 

While not directly related to Thanksgiving, the movie's themes of family, camaraderie, and celebrating uniqueness align with the values associated with the holiday, making it an engaging choice for the festive season.

Planes, Trains and Automobiles
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Steve Martin, John Candy, Laila Robins (Actors)

Planes, Trains & Automobiles (1987)

Planes, Trains, & Automobiles is a classic 1987 comedy film directed by John Hughes.

The story follows an odd-couple duo, played by John Candy and Steve Martin, as they embark on a chaotic journey to get home for Thanksgiving. 

RELATED:  Thanksgiving Movie Night

The film explores friendship, mishaps, and the true meaning of the holiday season.

The Big Chill
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Jeff Goldblum, Glenn Close, Kevin Kline (Actors)

The Big Chill (1983)

The Big Chill revolves around a group of college friends reuniting for a weekend after the funeral of one of their own. 

While not specifically a Thanksgiving movie, it explores themes of friendship, nostalgia, and life changes during a gathering around Thanksgiving. 

The film delves into the complexities of relationships and the impact of time on personal growth.

Movie night popcorn

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A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving [Blu-ray]
  • Factory sealed DVD
  • Various (Actor)

A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)

In this Peanuts special, Charlie Brown and friends plan a Thanksgiving dinner. 

However, things go awry when Peppermint Patty invites herself and her friends, leading to an unconventional but heartwarming Thanksgiving celebration centered around friendship and gratitude.

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FRIENDSGIVING
  • Wanda Sykes, Jane Seymour, Malin Akerman (Actors)
  • Spanish (Subtitle)

Friendsgiving (2020)

The movie revolves around Molly and Abby, who plan a last-minute ‘Friendsgiving' celebration after their Thanksgiving plans fall apart. 

The day takes unexpected turns as friends and quirky characters gather, exploring themes of friendship, acceptance, and the importance of chosen family during the holiday season.

Little Women
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh (Actors)

Little Women (2019)

Little Women is an adaptation of Louisa May Alcott's classic novel. 

While Thanksgiving isn't a central focus, the film spans several years, encompassing various holiday seasons, including Thanksgiving. 

The narrative revolves around the March sisters, their ambitions, struggles, and relationships, emphasizing themes of family, love, and personal growth.

TURKEY BOWL, THE
  • Ryan Hansen, Kristen Hager, Alan Ritchson (Actors)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

The Turkey Bowl (2019)

While not explicitly centered around Thanksgiving, the story follows a former high school football star who, during a Thanksgiving visit to his hometown, organizes an impromptu football game, reigniting old rivalries and sparking unexpected connections.

RELATED:  Tips for Hosting an Outdoor Movie Night

The film explores camaraderie and the spirit of competition during the Thanksgiving holiday.

The Oath
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Ike Barinholtz, Tiffany Haddish, John Cho (Actors)

The Oath (2018)

Set in a politically charged America, the story follows a family trying to navigate Thanksgiving dinner amid heated political discussions and a controversial loyalty pledge called The Oath. 

The film explores tensions, societal divisions, and the challenges of family gatherings in a politically charged climate.

Hannah And Her Sisters
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Woody Allen, Mia Farrow, Michael Caine (Actors)

Hannah and Her Sisters (1986)

Is a comedic drama that spans two years and explores the lives of three sisters, their relationships, and personal struggles. 

While the film is not centered around Thanksgiving, it features memorable scenes during the holiday, serving as a backdrop for family dynamics, revelations, and moments of reflection.

Thanksgiving becomes a symbolic setting for the interconnected lives of the characters, contributing to the film's exploration of love, family, and existential concerns.

Addams Family Values
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Anjelica Huston, Raul Julia, Christopher Lloyd (Actors)

Addams Family Values (1993)

Addams Family Values is a dark comedy film with a memorable Thanksgiving-themed subplot.

The movie follows the eccentric Addams family as they hire a nanny, Debbie Jellinsky, who has sinister intentions.

In the Thanksgiving scenes, Wednesday Addams challenges the traditional Pilgrim narrative during a school play, providing a humorous and macabre twist on the holiday.

The film explores themes of family, acceptance, and the uniqueness of the Addams clan, with Thanksgiving serving as a backdrop for the family's unconventional take on societal norms.

Dutch
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Ed O'Neill, Ethan Embry, JoBeth Williams (Actors)

Dutch

The story follows Dutch Dooley, played by Ed O'Neill, who embarks on a road trip to bring his girlfriend's spoiled son, Doyle Standish, home for Thanksgiving.

The movie explores the clash of personalities between the working-class Dutch and the privileged Doyle, providing humor and lessons about family and understanding, especially during the Thanksgiving season.

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Free Birds

Free Birds is a 2013 animated time-travel film featuring two turkeys, Reggie and Jake.

They returned to the first Thanksgiving in 1621 to alter history and remove turkeys from the menu.

DOWNLOAD AND PRINT THIS THANKSGIVING MOVIE BUCKET NIGHT

Use this blank Thanksgiving Movie Watch List to track what you want to watch this holiday season.

Or, get some ideas from this Family-Friendly list or list of Adult Favorites.

Thanksgiving Movie Bucket List mock up printable

Click here to download the printable.

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