The Best Winter Movies, Ranked By Fans

Ranker Film
Updated September 15, 2023 10.3K votes 1.1K voters 96.8K views
Over 1.1K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Winter Movies, Ranked By Fans
Voting Rules
Films about or set during the winter season. Vote up the best movies about winter.

With over 1,100 movie fans voting on this list of the best winter movies, it's no wonder why these films have stood the test of time. From heartfelt holiday classics to classic rom-coms set in snowy landscapes, there's something for everyone when it comes to winter movies.

Who can forget such beloved Christmas tales as It’s a Wonderful Life and Miracle on 34th Street? These timeless stories remind us that even during our darkest moments, hope is never too far away. On the other hand, some may prefer more lighthearted fare like Elf or Love Actually - comedic gems that warm your heart and put a smile on your face.

Of course, we can't forget about those nostalgic favorites from childhood like Home Alone or The Santa Clause that make you feel all fuzzy inside whenever you revisit them each year. Or perhaps you're looking for something a bit more offbeat with killer soundtracks like Die Hard or Gremlins - perfect for those cozy nights spent snuggled up indoors.

No matter what winter movie brings out your inner child (or adult) this season, be sure to vote up your favorite titles on this list so others can get in on the fun too.

Most divisive: Scrooge
Ranked by
  • Home Alone
    1

    Home Alone

    Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern
    327 votes
    • Released: 1990
    • Directed by: Chris Columbus
    Home Alone, a comedic family film, spins the tale of Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin), an 8-year-old boy accidentally left behind when his family flies to Paris for Christmas. In their absence, he must defend his suburban Chicago home from two bumbling burglars, Harry (Joe Pesci) and Marv (Daniel Stern). Using wit and daring traps, Kevin turns the tables on the intruders. Directed by Chris Columbus, this movie won a British Comedy Award and received two Academy Award nominations, cementing its place in holiday movie history. It's a delightful mix of humor, adventure, and the indomitable spirit of a child.

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  • It's a Wonderful Life
    2

    It's a Wonderful Life

    James Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore
    209 votes
    • Released: 1946
    • Directed by: Frank Capra
    In the heartwarming film It's a Wonderful Life, George Bailey (James Stewart) teeters on the brink of despair. His small-town existence, full of missed opportunities and financial struggles, seems unbearable. Luckily, his guardian angel Clarence Odbody (Henry Travers) steps in, showing George what life would be like if he'd never been born. This 1946 classic, directed by Frank Capra, brilliantly blends elements of drama and fantasy. It won an Academy Technical Achievement Award and has been lauded for its enduring message about the value of every individual life.

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  • Die Hard
    3

    Die Hard

    Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman, Bonnie Bedelia
    178 votes
    • Released: 1988
    • Directed by: John McTiernan
    Die Hard, a classic action-thriller, revolves around New York cop John McClane (Bruce Willis). He's just trying to reconcile with his estranged wife, Holly (Bonnie Bedelia), at her company's Christmas Eve party. But things spiral out of control when German terrorist Hans Gruber (Alan Rickman) and his henchmen take over the high-rise building. Armed only with his wits and determination, McClane must face down the deadly adversaries, save the hostages, including his wife, and thwart Gruber's grandiose heist plan. A high-stakes game of cat and mouse ensues creating an unforgettable cinematic experience resulting in four Academy Award nominations.

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  • Elf
    4

    Elf

    Will Ferrell, James Caan, Bob Newhart
    212 votes
    • Released: 2003
    • Directed by: Jon Favreau
    A charming blend of whimsy and comedy, Elf is a festive delight. The film chronicles the journey of Buddy (Will Ferrell), an oversized elf who hails from Santa's workshop in the North Pole. Raised among elves, Buddy discovers he's actually human and embarks on a quest to New York City to find his biological father, Walter Hobbs (James Caan). Encountering a world that lacks Christmas spirit, Buddy is determined to win over his cynical dad while spreading holiday cheer. Directed by Jon Favreau, Elf spins a heartwarming yarn about identity, family, and the magic of Christmas without revealing too much or transforming into a saccharine overdose. This is a movie that has won hearts without claiming any major awards.

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  • Groundhog Day
    5

    Groundhog Day

    Bill Murray, Andie MacDowell, Chris Elliott
    156 votes
    • Released: 1993
    • Directed by: Harold Ramis
    In the iconic comedy Groundhog Day, Phil Connors (Bill Murray), a cynical weatherman, finds himself in a time loop, living the same day over and over. Trapped in Punxsutawney for Groundhog Day festivities, Phil's initial disdain turns to desperation as he tries to break free from this endless cycle. Directed by Harold Ramis, the film cleverly explores themes of self-improvement and redemption. Co-starring Andie MacDowell as Rita Hanson, Phil's producer and eventual love interest, Groundhog Day deftly blends humor with a thought-provoking narrative. This film is a staple of American cinema and a testament to Bill Murray's comedic prowess.

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  • Ice Age
    6

    Ice Age

    Ray Romano, John Leguizamo, Denis Leary
    118 votes
    • Released: 2002
    • Directed by: Chris Wedge
    In the heart of the Ice Age, a woolly mammoth named Manny (Ray Romano), a sloth known as Sid (John Leguizamo), and a saber-toothed cat called Diego (Denis Leary) find themselves on an unexpected quest. A human infant has been lost, and this unlikely trio makes it their mission to return him to his tribe. As they traverse icy terrains and face prehistoric perils, they discover the power of friendship in their shared adventure. The movie Ice Age, an animated comedy-drama, earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature.

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