20 Of The Best Christmas Christian Films Ever Made

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Are you struggling to find quality Christmas Christian films that honour your faith while still being enjoyable for the whole family?

I’ll be honest with you. One of my favourite childhood memories is coming home from church on Christmas Day, still buzzing from the morning service, and settling in to watch films with my family. There was something so lovely about those slow, intentional hours together.

The tree lights twinkling. Leftover breakfast pastries on the side. Everyone in their comfiest clothes, just being present with each other.

But here’s what I’ve noticed lately. Finding good, meaningful Christian Christmas films has become surprisingly difficult. So much of what’s available feels either overly sentimental or completely disconnected from the true meaning of Christmas.

I’ve spent more time scrolling through options than actually watching anything worthwhile.

That’s why I wanted to create this list for you. A proper watchlist that has a little bit of something for everyone. Whether you’re eight or eighty, whether you’re watching alone on a quiet December evening or hosting your whole extended family, I wanted these recommendations to feel relevant and worth your time.

These are Christian Christmas movies that centre Jesus, honour Scripture, and still manage to be genuinely engaging. Some are classics you might remember. Others might be brand new to you. But each one offers something meaningful.

They are a reminder of hope, a gentle nudge towards faith, or simply a beautiful retelling of the greatest story ever told.

So grab a cup of tea, get comfortable, and let’s build your perfect Christmas viewing list together.

Table of Contents show

1. The Nativity Story

This film walks you through Mary and Joseph’s journey from the angel’s announcement to the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. It’s biblically grounded and beautifully filmed, showing the humanity of Mary’s fear and Joseph’s doubt whilst honouring the divine miracle unfolding.

Why it’s one of the best: It stays faithful to Scripture whilst making the familiar story feel fresh and deeply moving. You’ll see these biblical figures as real people wrestling with real faith.

One reason to watch: It’s a powerful way to ground your Christmas celebrations in the actual nativity account, especially helpful for families wanting to teach children the true story.

2. A Charlie Brown Christmas

Charlie Brown feels overwhelmed by Christmas commercialism and searches for the holiday’s real meaning. With help from Linus, who recites Luke’s Gospel, he discovers what truly matters.

Why it’s one of the best: This 1965 classic boldly proclaims the Gospel in a children’s animation—something almost unheard of in mainstream media today. It’s gentle, honest, and timeless.

One reason to watch: It’s short, accessible for all ages, and delivers profound truth with simplicity and grace.

3. The Star

This animated film tells the nativity from the perspective of a small donkey named Bo who becomes part of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem. It’s lighthearted but doesn’t shy away from the miracle of Christ’s birth.

Why it’s one of the best: It makes the Christmas story accessible and engaging for young children whilst keeping Jesus firmly at the centre. The animation is gorgeous and the voice cast is fantastic.

One reason to watch: Perfect for Christian Christmas movies for kids—it sparks conversations about faith in a way that feels fun rather than preachy.

4. The Miracle of the Cards

Based on a true story, this film follows a young boy battling cancer whose mother rallies their community to send Christmas cards. The outpouring of love and prayer becomes a testament to God’s presence in suffering.

Why it’s one of the best: It’s raw and real, showing faith in the midst of pain rather than pretending life is always tidy. It’ll make you cry, but in the best way.

One reason to watch: It reminds us that miracles aren’t always about healing—sometimes they’re about community, hope, and experiencing God’s nearness.

5. Joyeux Noël (Merry Christmas)

Set during World War I, this film depicts the true story of a Christmas Eve truce between enemy soldiers. It’s a powerful reminder of peace, humanity, and the hope Christ brings even in darkness.

Why it’s one of the best: Though not explicitly a religious Christmas movie in every scene, its themes of grace, forgiveness, and peace echo the heart of the Gospel beautifully.

One reason to watch: It’s a profound reminder that Christmas is about God breaking into our brokenness with peace. This is something especially meaningful for adults.

6. The Christmas Candle

Set in a small English village in the 1890s, this story centres on a legend that one candle each Christmas can grant a miracle. A new minister arrives and challenges the town to seek the true source of miracles, Jesus.

Why it’s one of the best: It gently confronts our tendency to seek magic rather than the Maker. The setting is quintessentially British and utterly charming.

One reason to watch: It’s a beautiful conversation starter about where we place our hope and what we’re truly seeking during Christmas.

7. The Case for Christ

Whilst not strictly a Christmas film, this movie follows journalist Lee Strobel’s investigation into the evidence for Jesus’ resurrection. It’s perfect for Christmas viewing because it grounds our celebration in historical truth.

Why it’s one of the best: It’s intellectually engaging and deeply faith-affirming. If you’ve ever wrestled with doubt, this film meets you there with grace and evidence.

One reason to watch: Great for teenagers or skeptical family members who appreciate a thoughtful, evidence-based approach to faith.

8. The Shack

After unimaginable tragedy, a father receives a mysterious invitation to meet God. What unfolds is a powerful exploration of pain, forgiveness, and God’s nature.

Why it’s one of the best: It doesn’t avoid hard questions. Instead, it invites you into a deeper understanding of God’s character and love.

One reason to watch: If you or someone you love is walking through grief this Christmas, this film offers comfort without platitudes.

9. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe

Four siblings discover a magical world where they meet Aslan, a lion who sacrifices himself to save another. It is a beautiful allegory for Christ’s atonement.

Why it’s one of the best: C.S. Lewis crafted a story that’s both adventurous and deeply theological. The imagery of Aslan’s sacrifice mirrors Jesus’ crucifixion in a way that moves hearts.

One reason to watch: Perfect for family Christian Christmas movies—it’s engaging for all ages and sparks meaningful conversations about sacrifice and redemption.

10. The Preacher’s Wife

A pastor struggling to save his church from being turned into condominiums is visited by an angel named Dudley. The angel helps repair the pastor’s marriage to his wife Julia, strengthen his faith, and solve the church’s problems. He does all of this while reminding them of what truly matters at Christmas.

Why it’s one of the best: Starring Denzel Washington and Whitney Houston, this 1996 remake beautifully balances comedy with profound messages about faith, marriage, and community. The Gospel music is absolutely stunning.

One reason to watch: It’s entertaining enough for everyone whilst keeping faith at its core—perfect for families wanting a film that’s both uplifting and genuinely funny.

11. A Christmas Carol (2009)

Scrooge’s transformation from miserly to generous mirrors a spiritual awakening. This adaptation stays true to Dickens’ redemption-focused narrative.

Why it’s one of the best: Redemption stories always point us back to the ultimate redemption found in Christ. It’s a powerful reminder that change is always possible.

One reason to watch: The stunning animation and emotional depth make it a compelling watch for older children and adults alike.

12. The Ultimate Gift

A wealthy young man must complete twelve tasks to receive his inheritance, discovering along the way what truly matters. Christmas frames the story’s beginning and end.

Why it’s one of the best: It challenges materialism and asks what we’re living for. The lessons learned reflect biblical wisdom about generosity, work, and love.

One reason to watch: It’s incredibly inspiring and will leave you reflecting on your own life and priorities.

13. Little Boy

Set during World War II, a young boy believes his faith can bring his father home from war. His journey explores what real faith looks like.

Why it’s one of the best: It wrestles honestly with childlike faith, doubt, and the sometimes confusing ways God works. It’s tender and powerful.

One reason to watch: Perfect for families with children learning about faith—it shows that questions and struggles are part of believing.

14. The Polar Express

A boy’s magical train journey to the North Pole becomes about believing in what you cannot see. Though not explicitly Christian, its themes mirror faith beautifully.

Why it’s one of the best: The visuals are stunning and the message about belief resonates with the call to walk by faith, not by sight.

One reason to watch: It’s visually captivating and offers a gentle entry point for conversations about believing in things beyond our understanding.

15. Journey to Bethlehem

This recent musical retelling of Mary and Joseph’s story brings fresh energy to the nativity narrative with songs, humour, and heart.

Why it’s one of the best: It honours Scripture whilst making the story feel vibrant and accessible. The music is genuinely good and the performances are lovely.

One reason to watch: If you’re looking for biblical Christmas movies that feel modern and engaging, this is it.

16. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

The misbehaving Herdman children take over the church Christmas pageant, bringing chaos and unexpected truth to the familiar story.

Why it’s one of the best: It’s hilarious, heartwarming, and reminds us that Jesus came for the messy, the broken, and the unlikely.

One reason to watch: Perfect for families who appreciate humour alongside faith—it’ll have you laughing and tearing up.

17. A Godwink Christmas (Series)

These Hallmark films centre on “God winks”. It focuses on those small, divine moments that remind us we’re seen and loved. Each follows a different love story woven with faith.

Why it’s one of the best: They’re feel-good, wholesome, and sprinkle in just enough faith to remind you of God’s presence without feeling heavy-handed.

One reason to watch: Great for a cosy evening when you want something warm and uplifting without deep intensity.

18. The Christmas Secret

A single mother Christine struggles through financial hardship at Christmas. She loses her job, faces eviction, and misplaces a precious family heirloom. But as she uncovers a long-standing family secret, unexpected blessings and romance begin to unfold.

Why it’s one of the best: It’s a Hallmark film done right—heartwarming without being cheesy, with genuine struggles that feel real. The faith elements are woven naturally throughout.

One reason to watch: Perfect for when you want something cosy and hopeful that still touches on real-life challenges like financial stress and single parenting.

19. The Christmas Blessing

A medical student returns home for Christmas and must choose between his career ambitions and caring for his ailing father. Faith, family, and forgiveness become central to his journey.

Why it’s one of the best: It’s honest about the tension between our plans and God’s calling. The family dynamics feel authentic and the faith elements are woven naturally throughout.

One reason to watch: Perfect for adult viewers navigating difficult family relationships or career crossroads—it shows how God meets us in those messy, real-life decisions.

20. A Christmas Carol: The Musical

This stage-to-screen adaptation brings Dickens’ story to life with beautiful music and powerful performances. Scrooge’s transformation remains central.

Why it’s one of the best: Music has a unique way of reaching our hearts. This version combines artistry with a timeless redemption story.

One reason to watch: If you love musicals, this is a wonderful way to experience a classic tale with fresh energy.

(Bonus Christmas Film) The Perfect Gift

A spoiled schoolgirl named Maxine who shares her birthday with Christmas only sees the day as an opportunity for expensive presents. A mysterious drifter named Jess arrives in town and teaches Maxine, her overworked mother, and a disillusioned young minister the true meaning of Christmas. She learns that the greatest gift doesn’t come in wrapping paper.

Why it’s one of the best: It’s heartwarming without being cheesy and gently challenges our consumerist approach to Christmas. The mysterious stranger narrative echoes Christ’s presence in everyday moments.

One reason to watch: Perfect for families wanting to discuss materialism and generosity with children in a way that’s engaging rather than preachy. Available free on Tubi and other platforms.

Final Thoughts

Christmas is a gift. Not just the day itself, but the space it creates for us to slow down, gather together, and remember what truly matters.

These Christian Christmas family movies aren’t just entertainment. They’re invitations to reflect, to worship, and to experience the story of Jesus in new ways. Some will make you laugh. Others will make you cry. But each one, in its own way, points back to the hope we have in Christ.

So whether you’re watching alone after a long day of teaching, curled up on the sofa after a bus ride home, or gathered with loved ones around the telly, I pray these films draw you closer to Jesus. That they remind you of His nearness. That they make space for joy, peace, and holy moments in the midst of a busy season.

Which of these Christmas Christian films are you most excited to watch? I’d love to hear what ends up on your list.

With love,