As the festive season rolled around, there is nothing more delightful than snuggling up to a Christmas movie. With the holiday spirit in full swing, everyone geared up for the annual tradition that has been alive and kicking since the first Santa Claus graced the screen way back in 1898. The Christmas movie craze only got better, especially with the charismatic touch of Ryan Reynolds in the mix. These movies are not always directly tied to Christmas themes, but they are top-notch, demand-worthy flicks that set the bar high in the cinematic rat race.

While classics like Eyes Wide Shut, Batman Returns, and Home Alone may have already secured spots on your watchlist, these Reynolds-led gems are the true icing on the cake for your Christmas movie marathon.

Spirited

In the festive frenzy of 2022, Spirited emerged as the under-the-mistletoe sensation. It boasted a constellation of stars: Ryan Reynolds, Will Ferrell, Octavia Spencer, Sunita Mani, and Tracy Morgan. This Apple TV+ gem unwrapped Dickens’ A Christmas Carol in a hip, modern package, blending rib-tickling comedy, toe-tapping musical numbers, and the charisma of Ferrell and Reynolds.

The movie reimagined the ghostly gang as a savvy business squad, with Reynolds as the profit-focused Clint and Ferrell as the reluctant-to-retire Present. Musical beats served as the runway for Clint’s soul-searching journey, guided by Present’s unexpected reveal as the once-notorious Ebenezer Scrooge. While some critics raised an eyebrow at its length, the film’s fans jingled bells of praise for its stellar performances. It surely should be the top Christmas pick for a plethora of reasons. 

Just Friends

In the star-studded singing scene, Walking the Line had Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon hitting all the right notes. But do not miss a beat! Just Friends brings its own musical flair with Anna Faris and Chris Klein serenading their way through this quirky yet lovable comedy. Ryan Reynolds takes the lead as Chris Brander, the former high school misfit. His attempt to bare his soul to his best friend, Jamie Palomino (Amy Smart), at graduation goes haywire thanks to a humiliating mix-up.

Reynolds, known for his charm, morphs into a younger, heavier Chris without missing a beat, perfectly capturing the charm that captivates Jamie. The script of Just Friends shines with Reynolds balancing revenge and vulnerability seamlessly. The movie strikes a balance between humor and heart, although it occasionally veers into a slightly mean-spirited territory. Nonetheless, its clever writing, heartfelt moments, and Reynolds’ magnetic performance make it a top choice, especially for a cozy holiday movie night.

The Adam Project

In the vast galaxy of sci-fi lore, time travel always tantalized with its promise to rewrite history. Movies, captivated by this concept, weaved mesmerizing tales of fixing the past. Enter The Adam Project, a riveting cinematic escapade hailing from the masterminds behind Free Guy. Launching with a sonic blast of Spencer Davis Group’s legendary ‘Gimme Some Lovin’, the film catapults audiences alongside Reynolds’ Adam Reed, a quick-witted action hero zooming from the futuristic 2050 back to the present chaos of 2022.

Amidst dazzling visuals and jaw-dropping effects that could rival cosmic marvels, the story unfurls a heartfelt reunion between an older and younger Adam. This added layers of redemption and hope to the action-packed narrative. Beyond the mind-bending time jumps and pulse-pounding thrills, The Adam Project artfully intertwines emotional depth, sparking conversations long after the credits roll. This Netflix gem shines as a must-watch holiday treat, inviting viewers on an interstellar journey wrapped in nostalgia, redemption, and the timeless allure of altering fate.

Free Guy

In the Free Guy world, our leading character Guy starts off believing his life’s a paradise. “My name is Guy, and I live in paradise,” he confidently declares. But as the story unfolds, Guy discovers he has got choices to make, transforming into an accidental hero you would root for, thanks to Reynolds’ magnetic charm softening any hint of overconfidence. This flick is not just your regular popcorn fun; it is a Christmas must-watch with a powerful message of self-discovery and empowerment.

It might seem a bit quirky, but it is as inspiring as stumbling upon a life-changing TikTok video urging you to grab life by the reins. Gaming expert Zwiezen, covering Grand Theft Auto Online, had doubts about a movie set mostly inside a video game world. Yet, Free Guy surprises, respecting gaming culture while being a thrilling ride for both gamers and non-gamers alike. Originally a summer sensation, this movie now snuggles perfectly into your festive watchlist. More so, just as recommended by the cheeky and beloved Deadpool actor himself.

Buried

In Buried, Reynolds finds himself in a nightmarish scenario—trapped underground in a coffin, gasping for air with a dying phone. This thriller delivers a thrilling Christmas adventure for folks seeking a heart-pounding blanket-bound experience. Additionally, Rodrigo Cortés weaves a nerve-jangling tale as Reynolds battles against the clock and the suffocating confines of his tomb.

The movie’s technical wizardry shines as Cortés works his magic. Furthermore, it conjures up ingenious shots and spine-tingling soundscapes despite the cramped setting. Reynolds steals the show, carrying the entire film single-handedly and leaving fans awestruck with his gripping performance. Get ready for a hair-raising, spine-chilling journey that plunges you into a gripping narrative. Moreover, a perfect spine-tingler for the holiday season, keeping you perched on the edge of your seat.

Which other movie would you prefer watching this Christmas featuring Reynolds? Let us know in the comments below.