Thanksgiving isn’t just about turkey and stuffing. It’s also about cozying up on the couch with friends and family for some well-earned screen time. Whether you’re waiting for the pie to cool or avoiding another political debate at the dinner table, these Thanksgiving-themed films offer a perfect way to kick back and enjoy the holiday spirit. From comedy horror to animated time-traveling turkeys, here’s your go-to list for movies that bring the Thanksgiving vibes in wildly different ways.
Thanksgiving (2023)
Directed by Eli Roth, Thanksgiving turns a day of gratitude into a horrifying whodunit slasher flick. After a Black Friday riot ends in tragedy, a mysterious killer dressed as a pilgrim returns to wreak havoc on a small Massachusetts town, one carving knife at a time. Equal parts gory and satirical, this isn’t your typical feel-good Thanksgiving movie.
The film was praised for balancing self-aware humor with classic slasher elements, drawing comparisons to Scream and Halloween. Viewers embraced its chaotic energy, making it a cult hit among horror fans who wanted something different from sentimental fare.
With a Thanksgiving setting, killer dinner scenes, and tongue-in-cheek holiday commentary, it carves out a spot for itself as one of the most memorable horror releases of the season.
Stream Thanksgiving on Hulu here.
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Stream Thanksgiving on DIRECTV here.
Friendsgiving (2020)
Friendsgiving follows Molly and Abby, two best friends hoping for a low-key Thanksgiving after a year of heartbreak. But their plans are quickly derailed when an uninvited parade of eccentric guests (including exes, new crushes, and surprise family members) turns their intimate meal into a chaotic feast of emotions, revelations, and awkward toasts.
The ensemble cast, which includes Malin Akerman, Kat Dennings, and Jane Seymour, earned laughs for its offbeat charm. Critics were mixed, but audiences looking for a relatable and unpolished look at “chosen family” Thanksgiving gatherings found plenty to enjoy.
It’s a modern twist on holiday dysfunction, highlighting how friendship, wine, and passive-aggressive banter are sometimes the true staples of a November celebration.
Stream Friendsgiving on Paramount+ here.
Stream Friendsgiving on Fubo here.
Stream Friendsgiving on DIRECTV here.
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
No Thanksgiving movie list would be complete without this Peanuts classic. In A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, poor Chuck finds himself roped into hosting an impromptu feast for his friends, despite having zero cooking skills. With the help of Snoopy and Woodstock, he throws together a meal of toast, jelly beans, and popcorn, only to realize that what really matters is being together.
Decades after its release, the special remains a staple of the season. Its Emmy win, Vince Guaraldi’s music, and heartfelt moments have solidified its place in holiday viewing traditions for families everywhere.
Beyond the nostalgia, it’s a gentle reminder that Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be perfect. Sometimes, a plate of toast shared with friends can be just as meaningful as a golden-brown turkey.
Stream A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving on Apple TV+ here.
The Thanksgiving Movie (2020)
This hidden gem from 2020 takes an unconventional approach to the holiday. The Thanksgiving Movie follows four dysfunctional family members stuck together during a pandemic-era Thanksgiving gathering. Tensions flare, secrets bubble up, and awkward silences are filled with offbeat humor and indie-style charm.
While the movie didn’t make waves upon release, it’s gained traction in recent years as a niche seasonal favorite for those looking for something quirky and current. It’s a low-budget indie flick that leans into its limitations and turns them into character-driven storytelling.
It resonates in a post-2020 world where Thanksgiving gatherings became more intimate and more intense. If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, this delivers an oddly satisfying bite of cinematic cranberry sauce.
Stream The Thanksgiving Movie on Tubi here.
Stream The Thanksgiving Movie on Pluto TV here.
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Stream The Thanksgiving Movie on Fawesome here.
Free Birds (2013)
This animated adventure flips the script on Thanksgiving traditions…literally. Free Birds follows two turkeys, Reggie and Jake, who time-travel back to the first Thanksgiving in an effort to remove turkey from the menu forever. With the fate of turkey-kind on the line, the birds embark on a zany mission filled with action, laughs, and oddly touching moments.
While reviews were mixed upon release, families appreciated the fresh take on a holiday largely ignored by animated films. Owen Wilson and Woody Harrelson lend their voices to the turkey duo, bringing charisma and comedic timing to an otherwise absurd premise.
Over time, Free Birds has developed a small but loyal fanbase who return to its time-bending holiday chaos every November. It’s silly, fast-paced, and a great distraction for kids (and parents) waiting for dinner to be served.
Stream Free Birds on Tubi here.