Must-watch Black Christmas movies for the holiday season

The festive season is here, and it wouldnt feel complete without revisiting iconic moments from beloved Black Christmas movies. Whether its the unforgettable family gathering in This Christmas, the exciting reunion in The Best Man Holiday, or the hilarious hustle of Craig and Day-Day in Friday After Next, these films capture the spirit, humor, and heart of the holidays.

From comedies and romantic stories to family-friendly adventures, heres a curated list of 12 Black Christmas films perfect for holiday viewing. Grab your blanket and hot cocoa and dive into these festive favorites.

This Christmas (2007)

This film follows the Whitefield family as they celebrate the holidays while navigating personal tensions and family drama. The ensemble cast includes Regina King, Idris Elba, Delroy Lindo, Mekhi Phifer, and Loretta Devine, delivering a blend of heartfelt moments and memorable performances.

The Best Man Holiday (2013)

A sequel to the 1999 hit The Best Man, this movie revisits the characters 15 years later, exploring friendships, love, and long-standing conflicts. The film features Morris Chestnut, Nia Long, Regina Hall, Taye Diggs, Sanaa Lathan, Terrence Howard, Melissa De Sousa, Harold Perrineau, and Monica Calhoun.

Last Holiday (2006)

Queen Latifah stars as Georgia Byrd, a woman who learns she has a terminal illness and embarks on a dream vacation, embracing life to the fullest. LL Cool J and Grard Depardieu also appear in this heartwarming romantic comedy.

The Preacher's Wife (1996)

Whitney Houston and Denzel Washington lead this story of an angel sent to help a preacher save both his church and his family, combining faith, humor, and holiday magic.

Friday After Next (2002)

Craig and Day-Day take on temporary security jobs after a thief in a Santa suit steals their rent money. This comedy stars Ice Cube, Mike Epps, Katt Williams, John Witherspoon, and Terry Crews.

Almost Christmas (2016)

After the family matriarch passes away, relatives gather for the holidays, sparking laughter and emotional confrontations. Danny Glover, Gabrielle Union, Mo'Nique, Kimberly Elise, Omar Epps, and Nicole Ari Parker appear in this ensemble drama-comedy.

Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)

This family-friendly adventure follows an eccentric toymaker and his granddaughter as they discover a magical invention with the power to change their lives. Its a festive tale full of wonder and music.

The Perfect Holiday (2007)

Gabrielle Union stars as a single mother who falls for a department store Santa. Morris Chestnut, Charlie Murphy, Queen Latifah, Katt Williams, Terrence Howard, and Faizon Love support this charming holiday romance.

Candy Cane Lane (2023)

Eddie Murphy plays a father determined to win his neighborhoods decorating contest. A magical twist from an elf creates chaotic yet comedic results in this festive story.

Dreamgirls (2006)

A musical chronicling the rise of a girl group in the 1960s, featuring Jennifer Hudson, Beyonc, Anika Noni Rose, Jamie Foxx, and Eddie Murphy. The film, released on Christmas Day, is both a holiday and musical celebration.

Black Nativity (2013)

Based on Langston Hughes play, this movie follows a teen spending the holidays with estranged family members, including the stern Reverend Cornell. Stars include Jacob Latimore, Forest Whitaker, Jennifer Hudson, and Angela Bassett.

Tyler Perry's A Madea Christmas (2013)

Madea joins her friend to visit her daughter living in the country during Christmas, delivering the humor, warmth, and holiday chaos fans have come to expect from Tyler Perrys beloved character.

These films offer a diverse mix of laughter, love, music, and family, making them essential holiday viewing for anyone looking to celebrate with heartwarming Black Christmas stories.

Author: Olivia Parker