Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, feasting and of course, watching movies together. After the turkey has been carved and the pumpkin pie devoured, there’s nothing better than settling in on the couch for a classic Thanksgiving film. From heartwarming family comedies to thought-provoking dramas, these are the 30 best Thanksgiving movies to enjoy this holiday season.
1. Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
This classic comedy is the quintessential Thanksgiving movie. Starring Steve Martin as Neal Page, an uptight advertising executive, and John Candy as Del Griffith, a lovable but annoying shower curtain ring salesman, the film follows their misadventures as they try to make it home for Thanksgiving.
When Neal’s flight is canceled due to bad weather, he reluctantly teams up with Del to find alternative transportation. What follows is a hilarious and heartwarming journey filled with mishaps, including a destroyed rental car, a near-death experience on the highway, and an uncomfortably close night in a motel room.
Director John Hughes masterfully balances comedy and emotion, creating moments of pure hilarity alongside touching scenes that explore themes of friendship and gratitude. The film’s ending, where Neal invites the lonely Del to join his family for Thanksgiving dinner, is a beautiful reminder of the holiday’s true meaning.
Fun fact: The famous “Those aren’t pillows!” scene was improvised by Martin and Candy, showcasing their incredible comedic chemistry.
2. A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
This beloved animated special has been a Thanksgiving staple for generations. Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang bring their trademark charm and wisdom to the holiday, teaching viewers young and old about the importance of gratitude and friendship.
When Peppermint Patty invites herself and others to Charlie Brown’s house for Thanksgiving, panic ensues as he tries to prepare a feast with the help of Linus, Snoopy, and Woodstock. The result is a hilariously unconventional meal of toast, popcorn, and jelly beans.
Despite the culinary disaster, the friends learn valuable lessons about togetherness and appreciation. The special’s iconic scenes, like Snoopy and Woodstock’s wishbone tug-of-war, have become part of Thanksgiving pop culture.
Did you know? This special won an Emmy Award in 1974 for Outstanding Individual Achievement in Children’s Programming.
3. Home for the Holidays (1995)
Directed by Jodie Foster, this dramedy captures the chaotic and often dysfunctional nature of family gatherings during the holidays. Holly Hunter stars as Claudia Larson, a single mother who loses her job just before Thanksgiving and reluctantly returns home for the holiday.
The film expertly portrays the complex dynamics of family relationships, from sibling rivalries to generational gaps. As Claudia navigates her eccentric relatives, including her overbearing mother (Anne Bancroft) and her free-spirited aunt (Geraldine Chaplin), she rediscovers the importance of family bonds.
Robert Downey Jr. shines as Claudia’s gay brother Tommy, bringing both humor and depth to his role. The movie’s strength lies in its realistic portrayal of family interactions, with moments of tension, laughter, and unexpected tenderness.
Interesting tidbit: The film’s Thanksgiving dinner scene took three days to shoot, with the cast consuming real food throughout.
4. Pieces of April (2003)
This indie gem stars Katie Holmes as April Burns, a young woman estranged from her family who decides to host Thanksgiving dinner in her tiny New York City apartment. The catch? Her mother (Patricia Clarkson) is battling cancer, and this could be their last holiday together.
As April struggles to cook the perfect meal with a broken oven, her family makes the tense journey from the suburbs. The film alternates between April’s cooking mishaps and her family’s car ride, revealing layers of their complicated relationships.
Director Peter Hedges crafts a poignant and often funny story about reconciliation and the power of food to bring people together. Patricia Clarkson’s performance as the acerbic, dying mother earned her an Oscar nomination.
Behind the scenes: The entire movie was shot in just 16 days, adding to its raw, authentic feel.
5. The Ice Storm (1997)
Set in 1973 Connecticut, Ang Lee’s “The Ice Storm” offers a chilling look at suburban life during Thanksgiving weekend. The film follows two dysfunctional families as they navigate sexual experimentation, substance abuse, and emotional disconnection.
Kevin Kline and Joan Allen star as Ben and Elena Hood, a couple whose marriage is crumbling. Their children, Paul (Tobey Maguire) and Wendy (Christina Ricci), are exploring their own sexuality and rebellion. Meanwhile, their neighbors, the Carvers, are dealing with similar issues.
As a literal ice storm descends, the characters’ lives intertwine in unexpected and tragic ways. Lee’s direction is masterful, creating a palpable sense of unease and impending doom. The film’s climax, set against the backdrop of the ice storm, is both beautiful and devastating.
Critical acclaim: “The Ice Storm” won the Best Screenplay award at the Cannes Film Festival.
6. What’s Cooking? (2000)
This ensemble film directed by Gurinder Chadha offers a unique take on Thanksgiving by following four diverse families in Los Angeles as they prepare for the holiday. The movie celebrates the multicultural fabric of America while exploring universal themes of family, love, and tradition.
We see a Vietnamese family grappling with generational differences, a Latino family dealing with a daughter’s unexpected pregnancy, an African American family facing marital strife, and a Jewish family coming to terms with their son’s sexuality.
The film’s strength lies in its authentic portrayal of cultural traditions and family dynamics. As each family prepares their own version of Thanksgiving dinner, we see how the holiday adapts to different cultures while maintaining its core values of gratitude and togetherness.
Food for thought: The movie features four distinctly different Thanksgiving menus, showcasing the diversity of American cuisine.
7. Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
While primarily known as a Christmas movie, “Miracle on 34th Street” actually begins during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, making it a perfect bridge between the two holidays.
The story follows Kris Kringle (Edmund Gwenn), who is hired as Macy’s Santa Claus but claims to be the real deal. His assertion leads to a court case to determine his sanity and, by extension, the existence of Santa Claus.
At its heart, the film is about faith, imagination, and the spirit of giving – themes that resonate strongly with Thanksgiving. The parade scenes offer a nostalgic glimpse into a bygone era of holiday celebrations.
Academy recognition: Edmund Gwenn won an Oscar for his portrayal of Kris Kringle.
8. Hannah and Her Sisters (1986)
Woody Allen’s critically acclaimed film spans two years between three Thanksgivings, exploring the lives and loves of Hannah (Mia Farrow) and her sisters Lee (Barbara Hershey) and Holly (Dianne Wiest).
The movie weaves together multiple storylines, including Hannah’s husband’s infatuation with Lee, Holly’s struggles as an aspiring actress, and the hypochondriac Mickey’s (Woody Allen) search for meaning in life.
Allen’s signature wit and neurotic humor are on full display, but the film also offers profound insights into family dynamics, love, and the human condition. The Thanksgiving scenes serve as anchors, highlighting how relationships evolve over time.
Awards galore: The film won three Academy Awards, including Best Original Screenplay for Allen.
9. Scent of a Woman (1992)
While not strictly a Thanksgiving movie, this classic drama is set during Thanksgiving weekend and explores themes of gratitude and personal growth.
Al Pacino stars as Frank Slade, a blind, retired Army officer who hires Charlie Simms (Chris O’Donnell) as an aide for a trip to New York City. What starts as a simple job for Charlie turns into a life-changing experience for both characters.
The film’s Thanksgiving dinner scene is particularly poignant, showcasing Frank’s complex relationship with his family. Pacino’s tour-de-force performance earned him an Oscar for Best Actor.
Memorable quote: “Hoo-ah!” became Pacino’s catchphrase after this film.
10. The Oath (2018)
This dark comedy, written and directed by Ike Barinholtz, takes place in a near-future America where citizens are asked to sign a loyalty oath to the government. The deadline? The day after Thanksgiving.
Barinholtz and Tiffany Haddish star as Chris and Kai, a couple hosting Thanksgiving dinner for their politically divided family. As tensions rise and the oath deadline approaches, the gathering spirals into chaos.
The film cleverly uses the holiday setting to explore themes of political polarization and family loyalty. While satirical, it hits close to home in its portrayal of how politics can divide even the closest families.
Timely release: The film was released just before the 2018 U.S. midterm elections, adding to its relevance.
11. Krisha (2015)
This intense indie drama follows Krisha, a troubled woman in her 60s who returns to her family’s Thanksgiving celebration after years of estrangement. Director Trey Edward Shults cast his own aunt, Krisha Fairchild, in the lead role, lending an air of authenticity to the film.
As Krisha attempts to reconnect with her family and cook the Thanksgiving turkey, her fragile sobriety and mental state begin to unravel. The film’s claustrophobic cinematography and dissonant score heighten the sense of impending disaster.
“Krisha” is a raw and unflinching look at addiction, family dynamics, and the pressure of holiday expectations. It’s not an easy watch, but it’s a powerful exploration of how past traumas can resurface during family gatherings.
Behind the scenes: The film was shot in just nine days at the director’s parents’ house.
12. The Big Chill (1983)
While not explicitly a Thanksgiving movie, “The Big Chill” captures the essence of coming together and reflecting on life, themes central to the holiday. The film follows a group of college friends who reunite for a weekend after the suicide of one of their own.
Set in autumn, the movie’s warm color palette and themes of nostalgia evoke a Thanksgiving-like atmosphere. As the friends cook meals together and reminisce about their past, they grapple with the realities of their adult lives.
The ensemble cast, including Glenn Close, William Hurt, and Jeff Goldblum, delivers nuanced performances that bring depth to their characters’ midlife crises. The film’s exploration of friendship, lost ideals, and the passage of time resonates strongly with Thanksgiving’s spirit of reflection and gratitude.
Musical note: The film’s soundtrack of 1960s hits became a bestseller.
13. Friendsgiving (2020)
This comedy puts a modern spin on Thanksgiving, focusing on the increasingly popular tradition of “Friendsgiving” – celebrating the holiday with friends instead of family.
Malin Akerman and Kat Dennings star as Molly and Abby, best friends who plan a quiet Thanksgiving dinner that quickly spirals into a chaotic gathering of mismatched guests. The film humorously tackles topics like divorce, sexuality, and the challenges of adulting.
While lighter in tone than some other Thanksgiving films, “Friendsgiving” captures the spirit of creating your own family and finding reasons to be grateful amidst life’s chaos.
Star power: The film features cameos from Jane Seymour, Wanda Sykes, and Margaret Cho.
14. The Humans (2021)
Based on the Tony Award-winning play, “The Humans” offers a claustrophobic and unsettling take on the Thanksgiving family gathering. Set entirely in a rundown New York City apartment, the film follows the Blake family as they come together for Thanksgiving dinner.
As the night progresses, family tensions rise and long-buried secrets come to light. The creaky, dimly lit apartment becomes almost a character itself, adding to the growing sense of unease.
Richard Jenkins, Beanie Feldstein, and Steven Yeun deliver powerful performances that bring depth to their complex family dynamics. The film blends elements of drama and psychological horror to create a uniquely unsettling Thanksgiving experience.
Theatrical roots: The film closely follows the structure of the original stage play, maintaining its claustrophobic feel.
15. Addams Family Values (1993)
While not primarily a Thanksgiving movie, this delightfully macabre sequel features one of the most memorable Thanksgiving scenes in cinema history.
When Wednesday Addams (Christina Ricci) is forced to participate in a camp’s Thanksgiving pageant, she goes hilariously off-script, turning the sanitized version of the first Thanksgiving on its head. Her deadpan delivery and dark twist on the holiday make for an unforgettable moment.
The film’s subversive humor and celebration of outsiders align well with Thanksgiving’s themes of acceptance and coming together despite differences.
Quotable moment: Wednesday’s line, “I’m not perky,” became an anthem for nonconformists everywhere.
16. You’ve Got Mail (1998)
This romantic comedy, starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, features a pivotal scene set during Thanksgiving that captures the holiday’s spirit of kindness and connection.
While the film spans several months, the Thanksgiving scene where Joe (Hanks) comes to the rescue of a cash-strapped Kathleen (Ryan) in a grocery store line is particularly heartwarming. It showcases the holiday’s potential for bringing people together and fostering goodwill.
The autumn setting in New York City provides a perfect backdrop for the film’s cozy, romantic atmosphere, making it an ideal watch for the Thanksgiving season.
Cinematic history: This was the third pairing of Hanks and Ryan, following “Joe Versus the Volcano” and “Sleepless in Seattle.”
17. The New World (2005)
Terrence Malick’s visually stunning historical drama offers a poetic and contemplative take on the story of Pocahontas and John Smith, which is closely tied to the origins of Thanksgiving.
While not explicitly about the holiday, the film’s exploration of the encounter between Native Americans and English settlers provides context for understanding Thanksgiving’s complex history. Malick’s signature style, with its emphasis on nature and internal monologues, creates a dreamlike atmosphere that invites reflection.
The film’s themes of cultural exchange, conflict, and the beauty of the natural world resonate with Thanksgiving’s ideals of gratitude and coming together across differences.
Critical acclaim: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Cinematography.
18. Avalon (1990)
Barry Levinson’s semi-autobiographical drama follows multiple generations of a Jewish immigrant family in Baltimore, with Thanksgiving dinners serving as crucial touchstones throughout the film.
The movie explores how family traditions, including Thanksgiving celebrations, evolve over time as the family becomes more assimilated into American culture. It poignantly captures the tension between holding onto one’s heritage and embracing new customs.
One particularly memorable scene involves a family argument over whether to wait for a late uncle before carving the Thanksgiving turkey, symbolizing the changing dynamics within the family.
Personal touch: Many of the stories in the film are based on Levinson’s own family experiences.
19. The House of Yes (1997)
This dark comedy, set during Thanksgiving, delves into the dysfunctional dynamics of an upper-class family with more than a few skeletons in their closet.
Parker Posey delivers a tour-de-force performance as “Jackie-O,” a mentally unstable young woman obsessed with Jackie Kennedy. When her twin brother brings home his new fiancée for Thanksgiving, long-buried family secrets and twisted relationships come to light.
The film uses the holiday setting to explore themes of family loyalty, mental illness, and the dark underbelly of seemingly perfect families. Its blend of humor and unsettling revelations makes for a unique Thanksgiving viewing experience.
Stage to screen: The film is based on a play of the same name by Wendy MacLeod.
20. Alice’s Restaurant (1969)
Based on Arlo Guthrie’s famous 18-minute song, this counterculture classic uses a Thanksgiving dinner as the starting point for a series of satirical misadventures.
The film follows Arlo (playing himself) as he visits his friend Alice for Thanksgiving, only to end up arrested for littering. This incident spirals into a critique of the Vietnam War draft and 1960s American society.
While not a traditional Thanksgiving movie, it captures a specific moment in American culture and uses the holiday as a launching point for broader social commentary.
Musical connection: The film features the full version of Guthrie’s iconic song, “Alice’s Restaurant Massacree.”
21. The Blind Side (2009)
Based on a true story, this heartwarming drama features a memorable Thanksgiving scene that encapsulates the film’s themes of family, acceptance, and gratitude.
The movie follows the story of Michael Oher (Quinton Aaron), a homeless African American teenager who is taken in by the wealthy white Tuohy family. During a Thanksgiving dinner, Michael’s presence prompts the family to reflect on their blessings and the importance of helping others.
While the film has been criticized for its simplistic handling of race and poverty, its Thanksgiving scene offers a poignant reminder of the power of kindness and inclusion.
Real-life inspiration: Michael Oher went on to have a successful NFL career.
22. The Daytrippers (1996)
This indie comedy-drama follows a dysfunctional family as they embark on a road trip from Long Island to Manhattan on Thanksgiving Day to confront a suspected infidelity.
As the family members navigate the city and their own relationships, secrets are revealed and tensions come to a head. The film’s claustrophobic setting and sharp dialogue create a sense of intimacy and realism.
While not a traditional Thanksgiving movie, “The Daytrippers” uses the holiday as a backdrop to explore complex family dynamics and the ways in which we hurt and heal each other.
Directorial debut: This was Greg Mottola’s first feature film as a director.
23. Dutch (1991)
This road trip comedy stars Ed O’Neill as Dutch, a working-class guy tasked with picking up his girlfriend’s spoiled son from prep school for Thanksgiving.
As Dutch and the boy, played by Ethan Embry, make their way from Georgia to Chicago, they encounter a series of misadventures that test their patience and ultimately forge an unlikely bond between them.
The film’s heartwarming message about the importance of family and understanding is perfect for the Thanksgiving season, even if it’s wrapped in a package of slapstick humor and odd-couple antics.
Screenwriter’s touch: John Hughes, known for his iconic 1980s teen movies, wrote the screenplay.
24. Funny People (2009)
While not strictly a Thanksgiving movie, Judd Apatow’s dramedy features a poignant Thanksgiving scene that captures the film’s themes of friendship, mortality, and the search for meaning in life.
Adam Sandler stars as George Simmons, a famous comedian diagnosed with a terminal illness who takes a struggling comic (Seth Rogen) under his wing. During a Thanksgiving dinner with George’s estranged family, the characters confront their past mistakes and the fleeting nature of life.
The scene is a reminder of the power of holidays to bring people together and prompt reflection on what truly matters.
Autobiographical elements: Many of the film’s storylines were inspired by Apatow and Sandler’s real-life experiences in the comedy world.
25. Grumpy Old Men (1993)
This beloved comedy stars Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau as feuding neighbors who find their lifelong rivalry reignited when a charming new neighbor (Ann-Margret) moves in across the street.
While not centered around Thanksgiving, the film features a memorable holiday scene where the characters come together for a dysfunctional but ultimately heartwarming dinner. The scene showcases the film’s themes of forgiveness, friendship, and the importance of letting go of grudges.
With its cozy winter setting and focus on the power of human connection, “Grumpy Old Men” is a perfect choice for a lighthearted Thanksgiving watch.
Reunited duo: Lemmon and Matthau had previously starred together in the classic comedy “The Odd Couple.”
26. The War at Home (1996)
This powerful drama follows the Collier family as they gather for Thanksgiving in the wake of the Vietnam War. As the family members grapple with the war’s impact on their lives, long-simmering tensions and secrets come to the surface.
Emilio Estevez directs and stars alongside his real-life father Martin Sheen, with Kathy Bates delivering a standout performance as the family matriarch. The film’s exploration of the ways in which war can tear families apart and bring them together is particularly poignant during the holiday season.
The Thanksgiving setting serves as a microcosm for the larger societal divisions and traumas caused by the Vietnam War, making “The War at Home” a thought-provoking choice for the holiday.
Family affair: In addition to Estevez and Sheen, the film also features Estevez’s brother Charlie Sheen in a supporting role.
27. The Myth of Fingerprints (1997)
This indie drama follows the dysfunctional Warden family as they come together for Thanksgiving in their small Maine hometown. As the family members navigate their complicated relationships and confront long-buried secrets, the film offers a poignant exploration of the ties that bind us and the wounds that divide us.
With a talented ensemble cast that includes Julianne Moore, Roy Scheider, and Noah Wyle, “The Myth of Fingerprints” captures the complex dynamics and emotional landmines that often characterize family gatherings. The Thanksgiving setting serves as a catalyst for the characters to confront their past and work towards healing.
While not always easy to watch, the film’s honest portrayal of family dysfunction and its ultimate message of hope make it a meaningful choice for the holiday season.
Directorial debut: This was Bart Freundlich’s first feature film as a director.
28. The Vicious Kind (2009)
This dark comedy-drama stars Adam Scott as Caleb, a construction worker who becomes increasingly unhinged when his younger brother brings home his new girlfriend for Thanksgiving.
As Caleb grapples with his own demons and the ghosts of his past relationship, the film offers a searing look at the ways in which hurt people hurt people. The Thanksgiving setting serves as a pressure cooker for the characters’ emotions, leading to a series of confrontations and revelations.
With its sharp dialogue and unflinching exploration of toxic masculinity and family dysfunction, “The Vicious Kind” is not a lighthearted Thanksgiving watch. However, its raw honesty and ultimate message of the importance of breaking destructive cycles make it a powerful and thought-provoking choice for the holiday.
Critical acclaim: Adam Scott’s performance earned him an Independent Spirit Award nomination for Best Male Lead.
29. The Thanksgiving House (2013)
This heartwarming Hallmark Channel original movie follows Mary Ross (Emily Rose), a lawyer who inherits a house from her late aunt with the stipulation that she must host the town’s annual Thanksgiving dinner.
As Mary works to carry on her aunt’s legacy and bring the community together, she finds herself falling for Everett (Justin Bruening), a local historian helping her uncover the house’s secrets. With its cozy small-town setting and themes of tradition, family, and love, “The Thanksgiving House” is a quintessential feel-good holiday movie.
While it may not break new ground, the film’s warmth and sincerity make it a comforting choice for a Thanksgiving evening with loved ones.
Hallmark tradition: The movie is part of Hallmark Channel’s annual “Countdown to Thanksgiving” programming event.
30. An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving (2008)
Based on a short story by Louisa May Alcott, this period drama follows recently widowed Mary Bassett (Helene Joy) and her three children as they prepare for a lean Thanksgiving in 1870s New Hampshire.
When Mary’s wealthy and estranged mother Isabella (Jacqueline Bisset) unexpectedly arrives for the holiday, old tensions and secrets come to the surface. As the family works to mend their relationships and celebrate the true meaning of Thanksgiving, the film offers a heartwarming message about the power of forgiveness and the importance of family.
With its lush cinematography, period details, and strong performances, “An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving” is a charming and nostalgic choice for the holiday season.
Literary roots: Louisa May Alcott, best known for her novel “Little Women,” wrote the short story “An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving” in 1882.
These 30 movies offer a diverse range of Thanksgiving-themed stories, from heartwarming family dramas to quirky comedies and thought-provoking social commentaries. Whether you’re looking for a cozy feel-good movie or a more challenging exploration of the complexities of family and society, there’s a Thanksgiving film on this list for every taste and mood.
As you gather with loved ones this holiday season, consider adding one of these memorable movies to your Thanksgiving traditions. They may just inspire you to reflect on the true meaning of the holiday: gratitude, connection, and the enduring power of love and family in the face of life’s challenges.
Happy Thanksgiving and happy viewing!
