10 Action Movies Set Around Christmas That You Can Watch This Holiday Season

Published 12/18/2024, 3:53 AM EST

Ah, it is the holiday season! which is going to be about those cozy vibes and heartwarming movies, yes? But honestly, sometimes the meet-cute, sweet, and warm Christmas movies can get a bit boring to keep watching, especially if you are an action lover. Now, if you are someone who loves a good adrenaline rush and needs a break from all the mushy stuff, worry not, for you do not have to ditch the festive theme entirely. There are plenty of action-packed films set during Christmas that will serve you the thrills without too many of the sappy goodie moments. 

Looking to escape the usual holiday movie fluff? Whether you are into explosive shootouts, daring heists, or pulse-pounding chases, these movies bring the holiday spirit with a serious kick that might be just right for you!

Lethal Weapon

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Lethal Weapon is an one of kind action movie that you must watch at least once. It does a great job of bringing some serious adrenaline-pumping action set in a Christmas background. If you are curious about the film's action-packed scenes, here is a peak: Christmas is in full swing in Los Angeles. But for detectives Martin Riggs and Roger Murtaugh, the holidays are anything but peaceful. Riggs has quite a dark past and used to be in the special forces. Then there's Murtaugh, a seasoned cop who is eyeing retirement. These two make quite the odd couple, yes but their partnership becomes a hit when they stumble on a dangerous drug ring. 

Lethal Weapon will be like a fresh breath of air among all the Christmas magic, and spirits with its fresh take on the usual holiday flicks. With the movie's mix of humor, heart, and suspense, it is a top pick for anyone looking to enjoy an action-packed classic. 

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Die Hard

So, picture this: It is a chilly Christmas Eve, and John McClane, a cop from New York City, lands in Los Angeles. He is there to patch things up with his wife, Holly. They meet up at her company's holiday bash in this massive skyscraper called Nakatomi Plaza. But, just when things start to get happy and festive, a bunch of terrorists led by this sly guy named Hans Gruber take over the building. Talk about a party crasher!  Now, this was just a small peek at the plot of Die Hard, if this got your attention, this film is for you. 

There has been a debate for far too long now, about, if Die Hard is a Christmas movieDie Hard is not your typical action flick; it is a whole rollercoaster of a movie that shakes you up. It has got that blend of holiday spirit and explosive action that will keep you on the edge wanting to know what happens next. Everyone likes a good underdog story, and this is one of the best in that. It has been called a holiday classic for a reason!

Batman Returns

Coming to your screens from the heart of Gotham City is another Batman classic, here a chilling winter sets the stage for a big battle between good and evil. Batman, played by Michael Keaton, faces off against the sinister Penguin, a deformed villain who comes from the city's sewers, and you also have the stunning Catwoman making an entry with her hidden agenda. 

As snowflakes fall around the city and Christmas decorations adorn all houses and streets, the trio's complex relationships come to light with unexpected alliances and confrontations. The film's dark, atmospheric setting will not only give you the chills but is perfect for a cozy night spent under your warm blankets. 

Die Hard 2

After John McClane (Bruce Willis) pulled off a daring rescue in Los Angeles back in Die Hard, he was hoping for a quiet holiday season. But, as luck would have it, things for him did not go as planned. In Die Hard 2, he is back during Christmas at Washington Dulles International Airport, where McClane finds himself up against a new threat. A bunch of terrorists, led by the no-nonsense Colonel Stuart (William Sadler), have taken over the airport. 

This movie is for the action geeks, it is packed with heart-pounding action scenes, like an intense mid-air battle and a jaw-dropping rescue on a moving plane. Critics have given it a thumbs-up for its adrenaline-pumping action and gripping storyline. Sure, it may not top the original for some, but it definitely holds its own as a solid sequel.

Kiss Kiss Bang Bang

Who says, Christmas cannot come with a side of mystery and mayhem? This is exactly what Kiss Kiss Bang Bang brings to your watchlist, a wild ride that mixes sharp wit, dark humor, and thrilling action for a fresh spin on holiday movies. Harry Lockhart, a small-time crook, finds himself falling into a whirlwind of surprises. After a robbery goes south, he accidentally crashes an acting audition and, to his shock, lands a role in a detective movie. To get into character he is teamed up with Gay Perry, a real private detective. Their first mission much to Lockhart's surprise was to track down a missing person: a woman from Harry's past. As they dig deeper, they open up a box of messy lies, murder, and betrayal. 

Oh, and not to forget, the film features standout performances from fan-favorites, Robert Downey Jr., Val Kilmer, and Michelle Monaghan. It is definitely on the list of must-watch films for anyone scrolling to find that one standout holiday flick that will keep them hooked. 

The Last Boy Scout

While Die Hard is often the first name that leaves people's mouths when it comes to Christmas action movies, The Last Boy Scout also puts up a good fight for the top. Released back in 1991, this film might have slipped under your radar, but it is a real gem. It brings Bruce Willis back together with director Tony Scott for a ride full of sharp dialogue and explosive action. 

Willis comes back to star in this as Joe Hallenbeck, a once-respected Secret Service agent who is now a private detective who works with Jimmy Dix (Damon Wayans) to solve the murder of a stripper. The film's fast pace and witty lines make it a real standout in the action genre. Even American film critic, Roger Ebert wrote in his review of the film, calling it "a superb example of what it is: a glossy, skillful, cynical, smart" action thriller. 

The Long Kiss Goodnight

The Long Kiss Goodnight, is that perfect pick for when you do not know what to watch and are simply scrolling hoping to find a good movie to surprise you. You will follow, Geena Davis who takes the lead as Samantha Caine, a schoolteacher and single mom living in a charming Pennsylvania town. Her world flips upside down after a car accident during the Christmas holidays jolts her memories of a violent past. Partnering with private detective Mitch Hennessey, played by Samuel L. Jackson, Samantha begins the journey to find her true identity as a top-notch government assassin. 

The Long Kiss Goodnight in all its scenes, does not fail to serve up a wild plate of action scenes that will make you sit up in intrigue. You should definitely consider adding The Long Kiss Goodnight to your watchlist this season

Behind Enemy Lines

If you are in the mood for something a little different this season, Behind Enemy Lines might just be the ticket. It has a gripping story and characters that really pull you in, here is a small teaser for you, Behind Enemy Lines (2001) stars Owen Wilson as Lt. Chris Burnett, a Navy pilot who finds himself in quite the pickle when he is shot down over enemy territory. Imagine trying to escape from that mess! 

Talking about holiday spirit with a twist of action, this film brings a bang-on addition to the mix. Yes, especially with ita plot, it injects the perfect amount of adrenaline to keep the film from lagging. It stands as a fan-favorite for many and critics have given the film a big thumbs up for its heart-pounding action and strong performances.  

Reindeer Games

You get to go back and admire Ben Affleck's younger stunning self in the Reindeer Games. Here, Ben Affleck takes center stage as Rudy Duncan, a guy who has just stepped out of prison and is hoping to hit the reset button on his life. He sets his sights on Ashley (played by Charlize Theron), the woman he connected with through letters while he was behind bars. But, his luck turns on him as their fresh start gets hit down badly by a casino heist that sets off a chain of wild twists and strong action scenes. 

Reindeer Games does a smooth job of blending suspense with that bit of romance, covering all areas. And not to forget, Ben Affleck nails it with his engaging performance, an added plus is the film's gripping storyline. All of this makes Reindeer Games a top pick for the holiday season. 

The Ice Harvest

Craving a movie that will have you biting your nails in suspense, the Ice Harvest may just be the one for you to watch! And here is why, on a cold Christmas Eve in Wichita, Kansas, Charlie Arglist (John Cusack) finds himself in quite the pickle. As a lawyer with a rather dodgy past, he and his partner-in-crime, Vic Cavanaugh (Billy Bob Thornton), have just swiped a cool $2 million from their mob boss. They planned to skip town with their loot, but a nasty ice storm struck the city at that exact time, leading to some interesting events for the duo. 

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Ice Harvest is a movie that is one of its kind, it has got crime, dark comedy, and is a festive backdrop! So, what is the wait, follow this duo on their wild ride of unexpected twists and raw adult humor that will give you the laughs and the suspense chills. These movies are great to watch all together or to add to your holiday watchlist, giving it a little spicy twist. So, why not switch things up this year? Grab your popcorn, get comfy, and enjoy the perfect blend of adrenaline and heart-pounding action of these classic action films. 

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Do you have a favorite Christmas action movie that you watch every year? Let us know in the comments below!

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Akshaya Deeksha

59 articles

Akshaya Deeksha is an Entertainment Writer at NetflixJunkie. With her passion to explore the evolving world of entertainment and her journalistic sense, she specializes in cinematic storytelling and Hollywood developments. Her expertise in lifestyle writing allows her to connect with readers through relatable content.

Edited By: Aliza Siddiqui

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