The month of December is the most appropriate time to watch as many holiday films as you can. Whether it’s Elf or It’s a Wonderful Life or Home Alone, the need for Christmas classics is rarely ever satiated.
However, too much of something is never a good thing. So, what do you turn to when you need to take a break from he usual jingle bells and snowflakes? Look no further than our carefully curated list of 10 non-Christmas movies tailored for your upcoming holiday break. From coming-of-age tales to indie gems, these films offer a refreshing alternative to the standard holiday lineup.
The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)
In Wes Anderson’s The Royal Tenenbaums, the lives of the eccentric Tenenbaum siblings unfold in a symphony of quirkiness. Former child prodigies navigating adulthood, the Tenenbaums’ journey becomes a delightful exploration of family dynamics, redemption, and the pursuit of authenticity.
Available on Prime Video
Eighth Grade (2018)
Bo Burnham’s Eighth Grade paints a poignant picture of adolescence through the experiences of Kayla Day. Navigating the challenges of modern teenage life, Kayla’s journey resonates across generations, offering an authentic portrayal of the awkwardness and trials of growing up.
Available on Max or Hulu
Everything Everywhere All At Once (2022)
The record-breaking masterpiece from directors Daniel Scheinert and Daniel Kwan propels audiences into a mind-bending odyssey through parallel universes. Led by Michelle Yeoh, this visually stunning and genre-defying film delves into the interconnectedness of existence and the infinite possibilities within the cosmos.
Available on Paramount+ or Prime Video
Garden State (2004)
Zach Braff’s Garden State is a heartfelt indie journey as Andrew Largeman returns home for his mother’s funeral. Amid reconnecting with old friends and a quirky love interest portrayed by Natalie Portman, Largeman’s self-discovery becomes a compelling exploration of life’s unexpected turns.
Available on Hulu or Max
Lady Bird (2017)
Long before Greta Gerwig’s was telling tales of little women and larger-than-life dolls, the acclaimed director debuted her vision with Lady Bird. This coming-of-age dramedy navigates the turbulent relationship between a high school senior (Saoirse Ronan) and her well-meaning but overbearing mother (Laurie Metcalf). Set against the backdrop of early 2000s Sacramento, the film beautifully captures the complexities of adolescence and the pursuit of identity.
Available on Netflix
Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris’s Little Miss Sunshine takes us on a darkly comedic road trip with the dysfunctional Hoover family. Filled with humor and heart, this indie gem celebrates the quirks that make a family uniquely special as they embark on a cross-country journey to support their daughter’s beauty pageant aspirations.
Available on Hulu
The Farewell (2019)
Lulu Wang’s The Farewell introduces us to Billi, a young Chinese-American woman, portrayed by Awkwafina, who returns to China with her family under the guise of a fake wedding to stealthily say goodbye to their beloved matriarch, Nai Nai. This heartfelt and culturally resonant film explores themes of identity, family, and the ways we navigate life’s inevitable goodbyes.
Available on Netflix
500 Days of Summer (2009)
Marc Webb’s 500 Days of Summer deconstructs the typical romantic comedy, presenting the nonlinear journey of Tom and Summer. Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel navigate the highs and lows of relationships, offering a realistic portrayal of love’s complexities and the importance of personal growth.
Available on Max
Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Based on Stephen Chbosky’s novel of the same name, The Perks of Being a Wallflower follows Charlie (Logan Lerman), a high school freshman grappling with mental health issues. As he navigates the challenges of adolescence, the film becomes a poignant exploration of friendship, love, and self-acceptance.
Available on Paramount+
Amélie (2001)
Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s Amélie invites viewers into the whimsical world of Amélie Poulain. In the streets of Paris, the shy and imaginative Amélie embarks on a mission to spread joy, leading to enchanting adventures that capture the heart and soul.
Available on Prime Video
