Thanksgiving doesn’t always get the love it deserves. It’s like the middle child of holidays, quietly squished between Halloween’s spooky vibes and Christmas’s tinsel-covered madness. As soon as Halloween wraps up, everyone’s already blasting Mariah Carey and arguing about when to put up the tree. But let’s pause for a second. Thanksgiving is amazing. It’s the one day where you’re encouraged to eat until you can’t move, squabble with relatives, and take long naps on the couch. And what better way to finish your feast than with a Thanksgiving-themed movie marathon?
Now, I know what you’re thinking—how many Thanksgiving movies can there really be? While it’s true that Turkey Day doesn’t get the same cinematic love as Christmas or Halloween, there are plenty of films that celebrate the holiday spirit (or hilariously point out its chaos). From laugh-out-loud comedies to heartwarming dramas, I’ve rounded up the 10 best Thanksgiving movies to watch this season. Trust me, these flicks will pair perfectly with your pumpkin pie.
1. Planes, Trains & Automobiles (1987)
Where to watch: Paramount+, Amazon Prime Video (Rent/Buy)
This movie is the ultimate Thanksgiving classic. It’s like the stuffing of Thanksgiving films—essential and always satisfying. Steve Martin and John Candy star as two strangers forced to travel together in an attempt to get home for Thanksgiving. Of course, everything that can go wrong does go wrong. There are missed flights, burned cars, and some truly questionable motel situations.
But beneath all the hilarious chaos is a heartwarming message: family and friendship are worth the struggle. Plus, you’ll be so thankful for your own travel mishaps—because at least you’ve never had to share a bed with a stranger who snores like a freight train.
2. Pieces of April (2003)
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV (Rent/Buy)
Hosting Thanksgiving dinner is stressful enough, but when you’re the black sheep of the family, it’s a whole different level of chaos. Katie Holmes stars as April, a rebellious young woman trying to impress her family by cooking the perfect Thanksgiving meal in her tiny, rundown apartment.
Of course, nothing goes as planned. The oven breaks, the neighbors are unhelpful, and her family is… well, let’s just say they’re not exactly supportive. But despite the disasters, the movie has a sweet ending that’ll remind you why we put up with family drama in the first place. Think of it as a warm hug in movie form—just with a broken turkey.
3. Addams Family Values (1993)
Where to watch: Paramount+
Okay, so technically this movie takes place during summer camp, but it earns its Thanksgiving spot thanks to one unforgettable scene. Wednesday Addams (played to perfection by Christina Ricci) stars in a hilariously dark Thanksgiving play that flips the script on the traditional Pilgrim-and-Native-American narrative.
Without giving too much away, let’s just say things get… explosive. Turkeys, pilgrim costumes, and chaos galore—it’s everything you’d expect from the delightfully creepy Addams family. This movie is like the cranberry sauce of Thanksgiving films: a little tart, a little sweet, and totally essential.
4. Home for the Holidays (1995)
Where to watch: Hulu
You know that feeling when you sit down for Thanksgiving dinner and immediately regret it? That’s this movie in a nutshell. Holly Hunter stars as a single mom who just lost her job and has to endure Thanksgiving with her wildly dysfunctional family. Robert Downey Jr. plays her chaotic brother, Anne Bancroft is the chain-smoking mom, and the rest of the relatives are just as hilariously unhinged.
Directed by Jodie Foster, this dramedy captures the awkwardness, tension, and occasional sweetness of family gatherings. It’s perfect for anyone who’s ever had to fake a smile while passing the mashed potatoes.
5. Rocky (1976)
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Netflix
You’re probably thinking, “Wait, Rocky is a Thanksgiving movie?” Believe it or not, it totally qualifies. One of the most memorable scenes involves Adrian’s hotheaded brother tossing a perfectly good turkey out the window in a fit of rage. That impulsive act sets up Rocky and Adrian’s first date—a hilariously awkward trip to an ice-skating rink.
Beyond the turkey-chucking drama, Rocky is a story about perseverance, love, and punching meat (seriously). So if you’re looking for something a little different this Thanksgiving, put on your sweats and give it a go. Yo, Adrian, pass the gravy!
6. Scent of a Woman (1992)
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video (Rent/Buy), Apple TV
Thanksgiving takes a dramatic turn in this classic starring Al Pacino as a blind, grumpy ex-colonel. He recruits a young college student (Chris O’Donnell) to accompany him on a wild Thanksgiving weekend, which includes fancy dinners, fast cars, and life lessons.
Pacino’s performance is iconic (hoo-hah!), and the film strikes a perfect balance between drama and humor. It’s the kind of movie that makes you feel thankful for the unexpected connections in life. Also, you’ll definitely want to avoid making bad bets with blind colonels.
7. Krisha (2015)
Where to watch: Showtime, Hulu
If you think your family has issues, wait until you see this movie. Krisha is a raw, intense indie drama about a woman trying to reconnect with her estranged family during Thanksgiving. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t go well.
The movie is semi-autobiographical, which makes it feel incredibly real. It’s not the lightest watch, but it’s beautifully acted and deeply moving. Think of it as the Brussels sprouts of this list—not for everyone, but definitely worth trying.
8. The Ice Storm (1997)
Where to watch: Max
This drama is set during Thanksgiving weekend in 1970s Connecticut, where two families deal with marital issues, rebellious teenagers, and a literal ice storm. It’s like a cold, bitter Thanksgiving feast with plenty of emotional leftovers.
Director Ang Lee creates a beautifully haunting atmosphere, and the performances (especially from Christina Ricci) are fantastic. If you’re in the mood for something serious and thought-provoking, this one will stick with you like an overfilled plate of stuffing.
9. Hannah and Her Sisters (1986)
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video (Rent/Buy)
Thanksgiving is all about family, and this movie captures the complexities of those relationships beautifully. Woody Allen’s comedy-drama weaves together the lives of three sisters (played by Mia Farrow, Barbara Hershey, and Dianne Wiest) and their extended family over several Thanksgiving dinners.
The movie is funny, touching, and surprisingly relatable. Plus, it’s one of the few films that actually celebrates the spirit of giving thanks. Just be prepared for lots of book-lined apartments and intellectual banter—it’s very New York.
10. Free Birds (2013)
Where to watch: Netflix
Finally, a movie for the kids! Free Birds is an animated adventure about two turkeys who travel back in time to stop Thanksgiving from becoming a turkey-eating holiday. Yes, the premise is ridiculous, but that’s what makes it so fun.
The movie is bright, colorful, and full of goofy humor that’ll keep younger viewers entertained. It’s like the sweet potato casserole of Thanksgiving movies—sweet, a little nutty, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Final Thoughts: Your Thanksgiving Movie Playlist
From laugh-out-loud comedies to heartfelt dramas, these movies offer something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for family dysfunction (Home for the Holidays), quirky humor (Addams Family Values), or an all-time classic (Planes, Trains & Automobiles), there’s no shortage of great options.
So this Thanksgiving, grab a cozy blanket, pile your plate high with leftovers, and let the movie marathon begin. And remember: no matter how messy things get, there’s always dessert. 🎥🦃
Mohit Singhania is a passionate film enthusiast and the creator of CinematicJunction.com, a platform dedicated to exploring the world of movies and web series.
With a commitment to delivering original, high-quality content, Mohit combines his love for storytelling with sharp insights into the entertainment industry. When he’s not writing, you can find him binge-watching the latest series or diving deep into the art of filmmaking.
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