"The Best Christmas Pageant Ever" is a delightful adaptation of Barbara Robinson's now-classic Christmas book, in theaters now. (Lions Gate Entertainment)
by Princess Jones
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As you dust off your holiday boxes and pull out beloved ornaments and twinkling lights this weekend, odds are good that you already have a list of nostalgic holiday movies as long as the tinsel in your hand. But alongside your treasured classics this season, there are some new gems worth adding to your Christmas movie rotation for a fresh sprinkle of holiday cheer.
From indie gems, to box office movie stars, to Hallmark favorites, these new films offer a delightful range of unique stories that are perfect for the season. Whether you're in the mood for heartwarming romance, festive family fun or a good laugh, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
"Red One" (PG-13) brings together blockbuster icons Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans in an action-packed comedy. Directed by Jake Kasdan, Johnson plays commander of E.L.F. (Enforcement, Logistics and Fortification, and also "Extremely Large and Formidable"), who teams up with Evans to rescue none other than Santa Claus himself — who has been kidnapped! Expect plenty of hilarious banter, epic fight scenes and even a talking bear. You can catch this silly holiday adventure in theaters now.
"The Best Christmas Pageant Ever" (PG) is a delightful adaptation of Barbara Robinson's now-classic Christmas book. When the Herdman siblings — known for lying, stealing and bullying — somehow land the lead roles in the local church's Christmas pageant, the townspeople are less than thrilled. Directed by Dallas Jenkins, best known for his work on "The Chosen," the film offers a fresh take on the Christmas story and delivers a touching reminder that no one is beyond God's grace. Fun for all ages, "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever" is now playing in a movie theater near you.
"To Have and To Holiday" (G) is the kind of whimsical Christmas romance that Hallmark is known for. Newly engaged Celeste and Jason find their journey to the altar taking an unexpected twist when Pastor Mark, the couple's officiant — and also Celeste's father — puts the pair through a challenging pre-wedding "boot camp" of Christmas-themed tasks.
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In "To Have and To Holiday," a newly engaged couple find their journey to the altar taking an unexpected twist. (Hallmark)
Starring Madeleine Arthur, Robert Bazzocchi and Eric Close, this charming movie is sure to captivate couples and Christmas enthusiasts alike. This film is now playing on the Hallmark Channel and streaming on Peacock.
"Christmas Eve in Miller's Point" (PG-13) is a heartwarming dramedy centered around a family preparing for what could be their final Christmas in their ancestral home. Determined to make this holiday one to remember, the adults' heartfelt efforts are interspersed with the antics of the teenagers stirring up a bit of trouble along the way. Directed by Tyler Taormina, the film showcases a talented cast of rising stars including Michael Cera ("Barbie"), Francesca Scorsese ("We Are Who We Are"), Gregg Turkington ("Ant-Man"), Elsie Fisher ('Eighth Grade") and Sawyer Spielberg ("Masters of the Air"). Available for streaming on AMC+ on Dec. 6, this film promises a mix of nostalgia, humor and heart.
"Three Wiser Men and a Boy" (G) is the sequel to Hallmark's 2022 hit film, "Three Wise Men and a Baby," finding the Brenner brothers returning for another unforgettable Christmas, set five years after the first. Luke is determined to make his son's stage dreams happen, and needs his brothers' help to pull off a school holiday musical when the director quits. Starring Paul Campbell, Tyler Hynes, Andrew Walker and Margaret Colin, this movie is sure to elicit giggles from young and old. Now playing on the Hallmark Channel and streaming on Peacock.
