The Best Christmas Films for the Perfect Night In
If there’s one thing we’ve mastered, it’s the art of a proper night in. Christmas telly on, snacks within arm’s reach, and the Radio Times Christmas edition in hand. With December in full swing and Christmas quite literally just around the corner, now’s the time to settle in and work your way through the greatest festive films ever made.
Here are the ultimate Christmas classics to put on your watchlist along with a few ideas for creating a living room setup that’s worthy of your own winter blockbuster.
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
It’s the best – we don’t make the rules. A heart melter and a guaranteed tear-jerker, this black-and-white classic deserves pride of place in your Christmas line up, every year forever. Pop it on, switch on the Christmas tree lights and sink into your sofa. Pair with a cosy throw and let James Stewart remind you that you really are doing your best.
How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
It’s Ron Howard’s finest work, and it becomes more and more relatable as we get older; The Grinch is essential December viewing. Go green without painting the living room by curling up on the Model 06 sofa in Vine. For the full Whoville effect, add a couple of velvet cushions for that extra festive pop.
Christmas With The Kranks (2004)
Planning to skip Christmas and then absolutely bottling it at the last minute? Relatable. Stick this on for some classic festive panic and throw yourself dramatically across a Model 10 sofa and ottoman while shouting “Why is there always so much to do?”.
The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
A Christmas Eve classic. Get cosy with Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim, and Bean Bunny by setting up your own plush little theatre at home. The soft glow of a table lamp, a cosy armchair, and a deep seat sofa like the Model 13 gives you space to stretch out while Miss Piggy does the most, as she should.
Miracle on 34th Street (1994)
Warm feelings galore. A film that basically gives you a soft hug. Make your living room feel just as tender with a cosy accent chair, a hot chocolate and the belief that yes, absolutely, Santa is real and no one can tell us otherwise. We love you, Chris Kringle.
Elf (2003)
If smiling and spaghetti and maple syrup if your favourite, Buddy the Elf is your guy. Create a Santa-workshop-ish cosy corner with a coffee table set up for snacks and a storage ottoman for blankets galore. Ideal for loudly quoting along to every line because you already know all of them.
Love Actually (2003)
Ah Love Actually. The messy, chaotic, very real Christmas film of our hearts. Watch it from the comfort of a Model 03 corner sofa where you can tuck your feet up as you judge everyone’s decisions. Especially the cue cards (we’re looking at you, Andrew Lincoln). We have thoughts.
Home Alone (1990)
The blueprint for childhood wish fulfilment. Booby traps. Ice cream for dinner. Zero supervision. Set yourself up in front of the TV with the whole family piled across a modular sofa. If you’re watching with kids, expect them to get ideas. You’ve been warned.
Nativity! (2009)
A British classic. Silly, warm and full of energy. Perfect for sticking on while you wrap presents. Make your living room looking like Mr Poppy decorated it by introducing a bold accent chair or some bright cushions. Instant serotonin. Also, a moment for the soundtrack, please.
Set the Scene: Your Perfect Christmas Night In
Whether your seasonal vibe is chic snow-day minimalism or full-on tinsel explosion, we've got everything you need for proper festive lounging.
Here’s your cosy checklist
A sofa that encourages slouching: A Model 03 or Model 04 is ideal for long films or accidental naps.
A mountain of cushions: Swap in winter hues, velvets or playful patterns.
A big throw for snuggling up: And for hiding under during the emotional bits.
So, queue up your favourites, grab the remote and settle in. With the right film and the right sofa, Christmas really does start on the living room floor.
