5 excellent free films to enjoy during Christmas

      Christmas is a season for giving gifts, and what better gift could there be than a free movie? While numerous classic Christmas films will be broadcast on television throughout December, viewers can also enjoy many great movies for free at their convenience as part of the celebrations.

      There are plenty of festive films spanning various genres that audiences can watch for free on different streaming platforms. Whether or not you observe Christmas, here are some of the finest new and classic films that would make for an enjoyable movie night this holiday season.

      It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)

      Liberty Films / Liberty Films

      Directed by the iconic Frank Capra, It’s A Wonderful Life tells the story of George Bailey (Jimmy Stewart) as he matures, falls in love, and faces challenging times in his lifelong goal of helping others. In a moment of desperation and contemplating suicide, George receives assistance from an angel named Clarence (Henry Travers), who reveals what life would have been like if he had never existed.

      This film serves as a reminder of the joy and worth of one’s life, as viewers witness George discovering true richness in his relationships. Given the sometimes gloomy nature of the modern world, this movie may provide the uplifting experience that many need during the holiday season.

      You can stream It’s A Wonderful Life for free on Prime Video.

      Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)

      Paramount Pictures / Paramount Pictures

      Although technically a Thanksgiving film, this John Hughes classic has become a holiday staple that families often view during Christmas. Planes, Trains and Automobiles follows marketing executive Neal Page (Steve Martin) as he attempts to get home to his family in Chicago, only to find himself on a chaotic road trip with the excessively talkative but endearing salesman Del (John Candy).

      The many misadventures in this tale unfold in hilariously absurd ways, making it one of the greatest buddy comedies ever. At its core, it conveys a touching message that encourages viewers to empathize with others, even when they can be bothersome. Del’s sage words might be particularly useful for those navigating tricky family gatherings during the holidays.

      You can stream Planes, Trains and Automobiles for free on Pluto TV.

      A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

      Warner Bros. Animation / Warner Bros. Animation

      What would Christmas be without a little Peanuts? As his classmates celebrate the holiday season, the melancholic Charlie Brown (Peter Robbins) grapples with the true meaning of Christmas and seeks to rekindle his holiday spirit. Following his “psychiatrist” Lucy’s (Tracy Stratford) suggestion, Charlie Brown decides to direct the annual Christmas play with his friends, but not all of them support his vision.

      The music by Vince Guaraldi from this special has become synonymous with the Christmas season. Moreover, A Charlie Brown Christmas has achieved iconic status as it delves into the essence of the holidays, illustrating how Charlie Brown finds happiness in the company of loved ones rather than material gifts. Many can relate to Charlie Brown’s struggle with loneliness and melancholy, making this film one of the most heartfelt and grounded Christmas stories.

      You can stream A Charlie Brown Christmas for free on Apple TV.

      Roofman (2025)

      Paramount Pictures / Paramount Pictures

      This remarkable new crime film recounts the true story of Jeffrey Manchester (Channing Tatum), a divorced army veteran imprisoned for robbing numerous McDonald's. After escaping, the film follows Jeffrey as he hides in a Toys “R” Us for months, where he begins a romantic relationship with an employee, single mother Leigh (Kirsten Dunst).

      Many viewers may empathize with this version of Jeffrey, who turns to crime to fund gifts for his daughter and strive to be a “better” father. While it contains some serious themes, Roofman presents a witty and heartfelt narrative of redemption and kindness, depicting Jeffrey’s journey to improve himself and give back to those he cares for, ultimately discovering his true worth and what it means to be a good person.

      You can stream Roofman for free on Paramount+.

      The Green Knight (2021)

      A24 / A24

      Fans of King Arthur and fantasy films will appreciate The Green Knight this holiday season. The film begins with Sir Gawain (Dev Patel) confronting the titular knight (Ralph Ineson), who is summoned on Christmas Day by Gawain’s magical mother, Morgane le Fay (Sarita Choudhury). After delivering what should have been a lethal strike to his opponent, Gawain embarks on a quest to receive a similar blow from the immortal warrior a year later to prove his bravery.

      Though it may not fit the traditional Christmas movie mold, this fantasy-adventure from David Lowery and A24 is a captivating and thought-provoking film that deserves to be seen at least once. It delves into the true meaning of valor and chivalry as Gawain sets out to face his destiny against the Green Knight, making it one of the