Le Père Noël est une ordure - Jean Marie Poiré (1982)
"Le Père Noël est une ordure" (Santa Claus Is a Stinker) became THE iconic French christmas movie, although its story is not as heartwarming as typical ones. It is a French dark comedy following the chaotic Christmas Eve at a helpline center where the staff, dealing with eccentric callers, navigate their own absurd crises. As mishaps escalate, the night spirals into a series of hilarious and bizarre events, blending black humor with a touch of holiday absurdity, showcasing the human comedy amidst the festive chaos.
La Vie est belle - Frank Capra (1946)
It's a Wonderful Life - ageless for families in France - follows George Bailey, a man on the brink of despair, who discovers the profound impact of his existence when an angel shows him what the world would be like if he had never been born, reaffirming the value of human connections and selflessness.
Les Bronzés Font du Ski - Patrice Leconte (1979)
"Les Bronzés Font du Ski" - which is not so much about Christmas but about holidays - hilariously follows a group of vacationers at a ski resort, navigating their eccentricities, romantic entanglements, and mishaps on the slopes. Fueled by absurd humor and quirky characters, it's a comedic escapade that captures the chaos and absurdity of holiday adventures.
Le Grinch - Ron Howard (2000)
"Le Grinch" is a classic for most French families. It is a tale centered on the curmudgeonly Grinch, who despises Christmas and seeks to steal it from the cheery Whos of Whoville. The Grinch concocts a mischievous plan, only to discover the true meaning of the holiday through the kindness and festive spirit of young Cindy Lou Who, leading to a heartwarming transformation that melts even the Grinch's icy heart.
The Snowman - Dianne Jackson (1982)
Nearly every child has encountered the timeless animated wonder of "The Snowman" during their early school years, a tale of a boy's adventure with a magical snowman companion.
La Bûche - Danièle Thompson (1999)
"La Bûche" is a poignant dramedy revolving around three sisters reuniting for Christmas, unraveling their complexities, conflicts, and unspoken truths while navigating love, loss, and family dynamics during the festive season in Paris. The film delicately explores their intertwined lives and emotional intricacies against the backdrop of seasonal celebrations.
Love Actually - Richard Curtis (2003)
"Love Actually" intertwines multiple love stories during the holiday season, exploring the complexities of relationships, heartbreak, and joy, all woven together in a heartfelt tapestry of romantic connections and human emotions. This ensemble film celebrates love in its varied forms, offering a glimpse into interconnected lives during Christmas in London.
