5 Criminally Underrated Modern Films to Enjoy This Christmas

Though we have our favorite classic Christmas movies, there are still plenty of brilliant holiday movies out there that deserve our attention. Here are just five films you should consider watching tonight.

Klaus (2019, 8.2 on IMDb)

Set in the 19th century, this unorthodox animated take on the origins of Santa Claus follows Jesper Johansen, the entitled and obnoxious son of Norway's Postmaster General, who is sent to the desolate island of Smeerensburg to serve as its postman.

In an effort to deliver six thousand letters in one year, Jesper convinces the local toy maker, Klaus, to make toys for children who would write him a letter. As their venture succeeds, the townspeople feel threatened by the joy the two characters bring, leading to a tense standoff.

The Christmas Chronicles (2018, 7.0 on IMDb)

This Christmas comedy centers on the Pierce family from a small town in Massachusetts, who are dealing with the personal drama of their firefighter father's death. Still grieving, they struggle to get into the mood for Christmas. But their festive spirits are restored when they stumble upon evidence of Santa's existence and decide to catch him the next time he pays them a visit. Naturally, all sorts of fascinating events ensue.

Last Christmas (2019, 6.5 on IMDb)

Starring Emilia Clarke, Emma Thompson, Michelle Yeoh, and Henry Golding, this Christmas dramedy revolves around Katarina, an aspiring singer who feels like she's failing in life. Fortunately, Kate meets Tom, who opens her eyes to the beauty of the world and the people around her. As she gets to know him, the heroine understands that they have much more in common than she may have thought. At the same time, Kate strives to find her purpose and learns to love and help people. If you need another reason to watch it, note that Emilia Clarke sings Wham!'s hit of the same name in the movie.

Love the Coopers (2015, 5.8 on IMDb)

In this star-studded dramedy, Diane Keaton, John Goodman, Ed Helms, Amanda Seyfried, Olivia Wilde, and Timothée Chalamet's characters gather for a family Christmas party. While there's love and warmth in the air, the story is full of dysfunctional family drama and suspenseful plot twists. But, of course, it has a very happy ending, making it the perfect holiday movie.

The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (2018, 5.6 on IMDb)

This stunning festive fantasy action from Disney checks all the boxes. It has a captivating plot that follows Clara Stahlbaum on her adventures in the Four Realms, an all-star cast that includes Keira Knightly, Helen Mirren, and Morgan Freeman, spectacular visuals, and exquisite music. Based on E.T.A. Hoffmann's classic Nutcracker story and P.I. Tchaikovsky's eponymous ballet, this movie is the ultimate holiday treat.

Merry Christmas!