Six Black Christmas Films That Should Be on Your Holiday Watchlist

(Myron Mayne/101 Magazine)

As the semester winds down, it’s time to grab some hot chocolate, kick back, and cozy up to a must-see lineup of holiday films that bring drama, laughs, and all the festive feels. Here are six must-watch Black Christmas movies you can enjoy leading up to Christmas.  

1. This Christmas (2007) 

Stream: Peacock & Hulu

Looking for a heartwarming family story with just the right amount of drama and laughs? “This Christmas” has got you covered. This classic features actors Regina King, Idris Elba, and Loretta Devine. The Whitfield family’s reunion captures the chaos we all know (and secretly love) about family gatherings. Bonus: The soundtrack is a vibe and Chris Brown’s “This Christmas” should be added to your Christmas playlist. 

2. The Preacher’s Wife (1996) 

Stream: Hulu

(Courtesy/The Daily Beast)

Two icons in the Black community plus one timeless Christmas movie equals Whitney Houston and Denzel Washington in “The Preacher’s Wife.” With Denzel’s charm as an angel and Whitney’s powerhouse vocals, this romantic comedy-drama hits all the right notes for a nice, cozy night in. A few songs from this movie, like “Believe In You and Me” and “Joy To The World,” should be on your Christmas playlist.

3. Almost Christmas (2016) 

Stream: Disney+, Amazon Prime Video & Hulu

(Courtesy/The New York Times) 

If family drama is your holiday tradition, “Almost Christmas” gives you all the drama. Starring Danny Glover, Mo’Nique, and Gabrielle Union, this movie takes you into the messy, relatable world of the Meyers family as they navigate their first Christmas without their matriarch. Equal parts hilarious and heartfelt, it’s a must-watch for anyone who loves a little mess under the tree. 

4. The Best Man Holiday (2013) 

Stream: Amazon Prime Video

Reunions are at the heart of this holiday sequel, where old friends from “The Best Man” reunite and rediscover what really matters in life. “The Best Man Holiday” offers more than laughs—it dives into love, loyalty, and friendship themes, making it the perfect film for a cozy night with your Bison family. It’s a must-see, with actors Morris Chestnut, Taye Diggs, Nia Long and Regina Hall.  

5. Friday After Next (2002)

Rent: Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV

(Courtesy/IMDb)

If you’re feeling a bit more naughty than nice, “Friday After Next” brings a hilariously outrageous twist to the holiday season. Craig (Ice Cube) and Day-Day (Mike Epps) team up again to take down a thieving Santa in this classic comedy. This movie will make you laugh and shake off those finals-week blues.

6. Last Holiday (2006) 

Stream: AMC+, Pluto TV, Amazon Prime Video, & Paramount+

(Courtesy/IMDb)

Life is short—so why not live it like Queen Latifah? In “Last Holiday,” Georgia Byrd is a woman who turns her “last days” into the adventure of a lifetime. Packed with laughs, inspiration, and feel-good vibes, it’s the holiday pick to remind you to embrace life and enjoy the present moment. 

No matter your holiday mood—laughing until your sides hurt, ugly-crying over family feels or dreaming about new beginnings—this movie guide has you covered. So grab the popcorn, settle in, and watch these movies before the big day! Which Black Christmas movie would you add to this list?