10 Must-Watch Thanksgiving Movies for Every Mood
Thanksgiving is here, and whether you’re celebrating with a home-cooked meal or enjoying some takeout, nothing completes the holiday quite like a good movie. From heartwarming family films and hilarious comedies to the greatest music documentary of all time, there’s a Thanksgiving movie for everyone. As a TV and film fan, I’ve rounded up 10 Thanksgiving movies that will set the right mood, whether you’re entertaining the kids, winding down after a long day, or defusing holiday tension.
1. Addams Family Values
Available to rent or buy on Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, Vudu
A classic for all ages, this 1993 sequel brings subversive humor and a sharp commentary on the Thanksgiving holiday. It’s a funny and eye-opening way to discuss the history of Thanksgiving with children, especially through Wednesday Addams’ biting speech. With its dark humor, Addams Family Values is a great reminder of the complex history behind the holiday.
2. Beethoven
Streaming on The Roku Channel and Tubi
If you’re in the mood for a light-hearted laugh, Beethoven delivers a chaotic Thanksgiving dinner scene that will have you laughing at the mayhem a dog can cause during a family meal. The movie perfectly highlights the often imperfect nature of the holidays.
3. For Your Consideration
Stream on The Roku Channel, and Kanopy (with library card)
Christopher Guest’s 2006 film offers a satirical look at the commercial pressures surrounding Thanksgiving. It follows a fictional film, Home for Thanksgiving, and offers a comedic perspective on family reunions, reminding us of what truly matters during the holidays.
4. Planes, Trains and Automobiles
Stream on Paramount+
Widely regarded as the definitive Thanksgiving film, John Hughes’ Planes, Trains and Automobiles brings a hilarious, yet heartwarming look at the challenges of traveling home for the holidays. With Steve Martin and John Candy, it’s a comedy about the chaos of family travel and the importance of connection.
5. The Prince and Me
Stream on Netflix
This underrated 2004 romance stars Julia Stiles as a pre-med student who invites her classmate (played by Luke Mably) to spend Thanksgiving with her family. Set on a Wisconsin farm, it explores humility, community, and finding love, all while celebrating the true meaning of home.
6. Instant Family
Stream on Paramount+, FuboTV, DIRECTV
Mark Wahlberg and Rose Byrne star in this 2018 comedy about a couple who, after deciding to adopt three foster children, face unexpected challenges during Thanksgiving. It’s an emotional exploration of family, gratitude, and the messy yet beautiful reality of forming a new family.
7. You’ve Got Mail
Stream on Max
Nora Ephron’s 1998 rom-com set in fall New York is the ultimate cozy Thanksgiving movie. With Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, it’s full of sweater weather, coffee cups, and the magic of tradition. It’s the perfect watch if you’re in the mood for romance and nostalgia.
8. Home for the Holidays
Stream on Paramount+, MGM+, FuboTV, Philo
This 1995 film directed by Jodie Foster takes a brutally honest and hilarious look at the chaos of family reunions. Holly Hunter stars as Claudia, a woman dealing with family secrets, sibling rivalries, and holiday stress. Home for the Holidays captures the humor and discomfort of gathering with relatives.
9. The Ice Storm
Available on streaming services like Tubi
For something darker, The Ice Storm (1997), directed by Ang Lee, takes place over Thanksgiving weekend in 1973. It’s a poignant exploration of two families unraveling beneath the facade of suburban perfection, all while a deadly ice storm descends on their community.
10. The Last Waltz
Stream on Pluto TV (Free w/ Ads), Tubi (Free w/ Ads)
A wild card on this list, Martin Scorsese’s 1978 documentary The Last Waltz is about The Band’s farewell concert on Thanksgiving Day in 1976. It’s more than just a music doc—it’s a poignant exploration of family, legacy, and the emotions tied to saying goodbye, making it a perfect choice for music lovers.
No matter your mood, these Thanksgiving movies offer something for everyone—whether you’re looking for a laugh, a bit of romance, or a heartfelt reflection on family and tradition. Grab your deviled eggs and sparkling cider, and enjoy one of these films to wrap up your Thanksgiving day!