Relationships

7 Romantic Holiday Movies To Watch On A Date When You Wanna Keep It Low-Key

Do you think cuffing season would even be a thing if not for the magical connections conveyed in all of the best romantic holiday films? I'm on the fence. Personally, I can tell you that half of my motivation in searching for a cuffing season companion is the hope that they'll show up at my door with a sign that says, "To Me, You Are Perfect." The other half of that motivation is driven by the thought of snuggling up with someone, sharing blankets and hot cocoa, while we watch that exact scene unfold on my laptop screen in Love Actually...

So, let's say that you've found yourself in a new relationship during the most wonderful time of the year. Regardless of whether or not holiday rom-coms inspired your search for an S.O., I'm guessing the idea of a blanket-and-cocoa-sharing movie night sounds pretty appealing, right? Right.

If you're feeling festive, but craving a cozy, low-key night in (instead of an ice-skating, Christmas-party-going date), here are seven holiday films that are just right for the occasion. Featuring spunky elves, cross-cultural romance, and the Pumpkin King, every one of these movies is classic, charming, and sure to warm your heart (as well as your date's!) on a chilly evening.

1. "It's A Wonderful Life"

Let's kick this list off with an oldie but goodie. If you're the type of couple who keeps vinyls spinning during dinner and enjoys scouring thrift shops, throw on It's a Wonderful Life one night. And remember, "Every time a bell rings, an angel gets its wings."

2. "The Holiday"

... Aren't we all looking for a little corny in our lives? Glad you agree. The Holiday is a sweet blend of friendship, romance, and shirtless Jude Law that's sure to give you the warm fuzzies (though, fair warning, it's arguably the most chick-flick-y film on this list and always makes me cry?).

3. "The Nightmare Before Christmas"

If pre-split Tim Burton and Helena Bonham Carter are your #CoupleGoals, The Nightmare Before Christmas is definitely the holiday film for you. It's spooky and joyful and a bit bizarre (but hey, who isn't?).

4. "Elf"

Will Ferrell in yellow tights, family drama, narwhals, Zooey Deschanel's smoky vocals — Elf's got a little bit of everything, and it's sure to make both you and your S.O. chuckle. Maybe your next date can involve making snow angels for two hours, going ice-skating, eating a whole roll of Toll House cookie dough (as fast as you can can), and then snuggling.

5. "Noel"

This under-appreciated romantic drama from 2004 is a nice blend of sweet and silly, focusing on five interconnected characters facing very different challenges around Christmas Eve. With an all-star cast (including Penelope Cruz, Susan Sarandon, and the late, wonderful Paul Walker), Noel is full of heart and holiday spirit.

6. "The Santa Clause"

OK, so, I just got the title. It's The Santa Clause... because Tim Allen inadvertently enters into a contract to become the next Santa Claus! Mind blown. Wow.

My delayed understanding aside, The Santa Clause is great if you're missing '90s-era comedy and a sense of childhood wonder. Believing is seeing, after all.

7. "Love Actually"

All right, I'll say it: if your date doesn't like Love Actually, they're probably a sociopath and I'm glad you found out before things got too serious. Filled with touching moments, British accents, and Hugh Grant's finest dance moves, Love Actually is the be-all-end-all when it comes to romantic holiday films. It's the perfect movie choice for your low-key night in.

So, grab the popcorn (and maybe throw on some fancy loungewear?). It's movie night.

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