Anime movies to watch this Christmas winter! Introducing heartwarming, winter-themed works
On Christmas night, many of you may be looking for an animated film to watch with family and friends.
Christmas-themed anime filled with heartwarming stories and adventures can create a special atmosphere unique to this season.
Here, we’ll introduce anime that will lift your Christmas and winter spirits—from works that reveal the behind-the-scenes of gift deliveries to stories that will leave you smiling warmly.
On a cold winter night, take your time watching with a warm drink in hand.
You’re sure to make wonderful Christmas memories!
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Anime Films to Watch This Christmas Winter! Introducing Heartwarming, Winter-Themed Works (1–10)
Mickey’s Christmas Gift
Do you know the story “The Gift of the Magi”? In the midst of a life of poverty, the woman sells her hair to buy a chain for the man’s watch, while the man sells his watch to buy combs for the woman—a tale overflowing with love.
Based on that story is this Mickey cartoon, “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas,” a perfect Christmas animation the whole family can enjoy.
With the familiar slapstick antics of Goofy and Donald, it’s full of laughter and heart.
At around 60 minutes long, it’s also great for filling a bit of free time!
The Nightmare Before Christmas
This work, known as Tim Burton—the true maverick’s—first picture book, has such a distinctive worldview that it’s hard to believe the original is a picture book at all.
To give a spoiler-free summary: “Jack, the Pumpkin King, who’s fed up with the same old Christmas, stumbles upon a mysterious door in the forest, and then…”—a heart-pounding turn of events.
Since it’s done in a musical style, even the slightly spooky story is fun to watch! It’s also published as a picture book and a comic, so it could make a great Christmas present.
Be sure to check out the merchandise too—like clocks and lamps that really spotlight Jack’s popularity!
Olaf’s Frozen Adventure
As a spin-off of the 2013 mega-hit Frozen, Olaf’s Frozen Adventure was released in 2017 as a co-feature with Coco.
Set a few months after the previous film, in winter at Christmastime, it’s perfect for watching at home while looking forward to the holidays.
No matter how many times you watch it, you’ll be captivated by the grand music and the beautiful world of ice.
Alongside protagonists Elsa and Anna, charming characters like Kristoff the mountain man and Olaf the snowman are as delightful as ever.
It’s sure to spark lively conversations again, like asking everyone which character they like best.
Anime films to watch in the Christmas season! Introducing heartwarming, winter-themed works (11–20)
Grinch
A movie I’d like to recommend as something the whole family can watch and laugh together is The Grinch.
It’s an animated adaptation of the hugely popular book How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
The biggest draw is, without a doubt, the Grinch himself—he’s mean, but somehow impossible to hate.
It’s been adapted into animation and live-action several times, so many people probably recognize him by looks alone.
By the way, in the 2018 version I’m introducing here, the Japanese dub of the Grinch is voiced by Yo Oizumi.
The Polar Express
The Polar Express is a story about a boy who discovers a mysterious train racing across the snow on Christmas Eve and embarks on an adventure.
Its suspenseful plot is sure to entertain adults as well.
The film also features many delightful characters, including tiny Santa’s helpers, whose cute appearances bring not only thrills but also heartwarming moments.
It’s also known for featuring Tom Hanks as a voice actor.
If you enjoy Hollywood films, be sure to check it out.
The Star: The First Christmas
If you’re unsure what to watch, the heartwarming Christmas movie “The Star” is a perfect pick! The theme song “The Star,” sung by Mariah Carey, was even nominated for a Golden Globe.
Mary, whose life is threatened after she becomes pregnant with the Son of God, and Bo the donkey, who tries to warn her of the danger… the suspenseful developments make the time fly by, and it’s great fun for families and friends alike.
The story is simple, so it’s suitable from around upper elementary school.
This heartwarming tale will surely make you want to tell someone about it.
Disney’s A Christmas Carol
A Christmas Carol, the novel by British author Charles Dickens, has been adapted for the screen many times.
Director Robert Zemeckis of the blockbuster film Back to the Future masterfully brings Dickens’s world to life on film.
The story follows Scrooge, a cold and merciless man who reforms after a supernatural, spiritual experience on Christmas Eve.
Released in 2009, it is a fantasy animated film by Disney created with CG and 3D.
Please enjoy this wondrous tale depicting a mysterious experience on Christmas night.
