7 Unconventional Christmas Movies the Grinch Would Love

Christmas movies don’t all have to be about snow-covered cabins and perfectly choreographed carol singalongs. Sometimes, the best holiday cheer comes in unexpected packaging. Whether you’re over the predictability of typical holiday films or just want to switch things up, this list is for anyone seeking Christmas movies that are a little weirder, darker, or more irreverent—but still give off just enough seasonal spirit to keep you cozy.

1. Die Hard (1988): The Action-Packed Christmas Classic

You’ve probably heard the debate a million times: Is Die Hard a Christmas movie? Well, yes, it absolutely is. And it’s the perfect antidote to saccharine holiday fare.

Set during a Christmas Eve office party, Bruce Willis’ John McClane isn’t delivering gifts—he’s delivering justice. Packed with explosions, clever one-liners, and just enough festive decor to keep it in the holiday spirit, Die Hard offers action junkies a reason to deck the halls with boughs of... Bruce. It’s an adrenaline-fueled way to experience holiday cheer without a single snowflake landing on anyone’s nose.

2. Gremlins (1984): The Cuddly-to-Creepy Christmas Flick

On the surface, Gremlins looks like your standard holiday family movie: snowy small-town vibes, Christmas trees, and a cute creature named Gizmo. But then it takes a sharp left turn into chaos.

What begins as a sweet story of a boy and his unusual Christmas gift turns into a full-blown horror-comedy when Gizmo’s mischievous offspring wreak havoc. This one is perfect for anyone who loves their Christmas with a side of dark humor, and it’s a reminder to always, always read the instructions before gifting someone a pet.

3. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993): A Holiday Double-Feature

Why pick between Halloween and Christmas when you can have both? Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas is a gorgeously animated mashup that delivers spooky whimsy with a heavy dose of holiday spirit.

Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, discovers Christmas Town and becomes obsessed with taking over the holiday. The result? A visually stunning musical filled with quirky characters, hauntingly beautiful songs, and a storyline that’ll satisfy your inner goth without losing the festive charm. It’s the perfect compromise for when you’re still mourning spooky season but need to embrace the holidays.

4. Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005): Noir with a Holiday Twist

If you’re into sharp dialogue, dark humor, and Robert Downey Jr. at his sardonic best, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang might be your new favorite Christmas movie. Directed by Shane Black (who has a knack for setting noir films during the holidays), this neo-noir comedy is equal parts murder mystery and buddy flick.

Set against a backdrop of LA’s glittering (and slightly seedy) holiday season, the film cleverly uses Christmas lights and cheer to contrast its biting humor and twisted plot. It’s stylish, hilarious, and ideal for those who prefer their Christmas stories with a shot of sarcasm.

5. Carol (2015): A Holiday Romance Like No Other

If you’re looking for something unconventional but still deeply romantic, Carol is a stunning choice. This critically acclaimed drama, starring Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara, tells the story of a forbidden love affair set during the holiday season in 1950s New York.

The film isn’t just visually gorgeous—it’s emotionally rich, with every glance and touch brimming with unspoken longing. While it’s not the “jingle bells and mistletoe” kind of Christmas movie, Carol uses the holiday backdrop to amplify its themes of love, loss, and hope. It’s the perfect film for anyone who believes that love stories can be just as powerful when they don’t come wrapped in clichés.

6. Edward Scissorhands (1990): A Snowy Fairy Tale

Tim Burton strikes again with this enchanting and bittersweet tale about an artificial man with scissors for hands. While Edward Scissorhands isn’t a traditional Christmas movie, its climactic snowy scenes and themes of love, acceptance, and isolation resonate beautifully during the holiday season.

Set against the backdrop of pastel suburbs decked out for Christmas, the movie blends gothic fantasy with a touching story of human connection. It’s perfect for those who want their holidays to feel magical, melancholic, and just a little strange.

7.Happiest Season (2020): A Modern LGBTQ+ Holiday Story

If you’re in the mood for a Christmas rom-com that feels fresh and authentic, Happiest Season is a standout pick. Starring Kristen Stewart and Mackenzie Davis, this heartwarming yet emotionally complex film tells the story of a woman planning to propose to her girlfriend during the holidays—only to find out her partner isn’t out to her family.

With its sharp humor, stellar cast, and heartfelt exploration of love, identity, and acceptance, Happiest Season delivers all the cozy Christmas vibes while breaking the mold of traditional holiday romances. It’s an honest, modern take on family and relationships during the most wonderful (and stressful) time of the year.