As traditional Christmas movies dominate streaming platforms, alternative holiday films are finding new audiences. Streaming data released December 26 reveals growing interest in unconventional festive viewing.
Here’s the trending list of non-traditional holiday films:
- “Die Hard” (1988) – The ongoing debate about its holiday status hasn’t stopped it from becoming December’s most-streamed action film on Prime Video, with viewership up 45% from last year.
- “Edward Scissorhands” (1990) – Disney+ reports the Tim Burton classic saw record streams this week, with its snow-filled finale resonating with viewers seeking gothic holiday atmosphere.
- “In Bruges” (2008) – The dark comedy set during Christmas week has gained cult holiday status, trending on Netflix since December 20. Critics note its perfect blend of festive setting with noir elements.
- “Eyes Wide Shut” (1999) – Kubrick’s final film, set during Christmas in New York, received renewed attention after a December 22 retrospective screening at major art house theaters.
- “Brazil” (1985) – Terry Gilliam’s dystopian satire, streaming on Criterion Channel, saw viewership spike 200% this holiday season, particularly among younger audiences discovering its Christmas-themed dark humor.
- “Trading Places” (1983) – The financial comedy set during Christmas season trends on multiple platforms, with finance professionals citing it as their alternative holiday tradition.
- “Batman Returns” (1992) – Tim Burton’s second Batman film, heavily featuring Christmas themes, enjoyed a surge in popularity after HBO Max’s December 19 4K remaster release.
- “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang” (2005) – The neo-noir Christmas mystery gained new followers after several streaming platforms highlighted it in their “Alternative Holiday” collections last week.
- “The Long Kiss Goodnight” (1996) – This action thriller with Christmas backdrop saw unexpected revival on Hulu’s holiday roster, particularly appealing to viewers seeking action-packed festive entertainment.
- “Gremlins” (1984) – The horror-comedy classic received a December 23 theatrical re-release, introducing new generations to its unique blend of holiday cheer and mayhem.
Streaming platforms report these films collectively garnered over 50 million views since December 1, indicating strong appetite for alternative holiday content. Several theaters announced special “Anti-Christmas Christmas Club” screenings featuring these titles.
Film critics note these movies offer complexity and depth often missing from traditional holiday fare. A December 24 survey showed 40% of viewers under 35 prefer these alternative options to conventional Christmas movies.
Major streaming services responded by creating dedicated “Unconventional Holiday” categories, with Netflix announcing plans for original content in this genre for 2024. Theatrical chains report sold-out midnight showings for several titles, particularly “Die Hard” and “Gremlins.”
The trend reflects changing viewer preferences and broader definitions of holiday entertainment, though traditional Christmas classics maintain their popularity among family audiences.
