Top Thanksgiving Movies to Watch This Year

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If you’re looking for the perfect Thanksgiving movie lineup, classics like Planes, Trains and Automobiles, Pieces of April, and A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving are must-watches. These films capture the chaos, warmth, and humor of the holiday, making them ideal companions after the feast. Read on for more film favorites to carve into this Thanksgiving with your family.

Why Thanksgiving Movies Matter

Unlike Christmas or Halloween, Thanksgiving doesn’t have an overwhelming cinematic canon. That scarcity makes the few films tied to the holiday feel extra special. They often focus on family dynamics, travel mishaps, and the bittersweet humor of gathering together, which perfectly mirrors the real-life holiday experience.

Essential Thanksgiving Classics

  • Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
    Steve Martin and John Candy star in this hilarious yet heartfelt comedy about trying to get home in time for Thanksgiving. It’s widely considered the quintessential Thanksgiving movie.
  • Pieces of April (2003)
    Katie Holmes plays a young woman hosting Thanksgiving dinner for her estranged family in a cramped New York apartment. It’s messy, funny, and deeply touching.
  • Hannah and Her Sisters (1986)
    Woody Allen’s ensemble drama weaves together multiple family stories, with Thanksgiving gatherings serving as emotional milestones.
  • A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
    This animated classic brings nostalgia and warmth, perfect for kids and adults alike.

Quirky & Offbeat Picks

  • Addams Family Values (1993)
    Believe it or not, this gothic comedy includes a hilarious Thanksgiving pageant scene that’s become iconic.
  • The Ice Storm (1997)
    A darker take on the holiday, starring Kevin Kline and Sigourney Weaver, explores suburban dysfunction during Thanksgiving weekend.
  • Krisha (2015)
    An indie drama about a woman returning to her family for Thanksgiving after years of estrangement. Raw and emotional.

Cozy Comfort Films

Not every Thanksgiving movie is about the holiday itself—sometimes it’s about the vibe. Films with autumnal colors, family dinners, or themes of gratitude fit beautifully:

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving movies are about connection, chaos, and comfort. Whether you want laughs (Planes, Trains and Automobiles), heartfelt drama (Pieces of April), or nostalgic charm (Charlie Brown), there’s something to match every mood after the turkey is carved.

So grab a slice of pie, settle into the couch, and let these films remind you why Thanksgiving is about more than just food—it’s about family, gratitude, and stories worth sharing.

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