As Black Friday descends, pulling us into the whirlwind of Christmas shopping, it’s easy to overlook the holiday that precedes it. While Christmas boasts a cinematic abundance, Thanksgiving films require a little more searching. John Hughes’ *Planes, Trains, and Automobiles* often springs to mind, a genuinely funny film, but it’s hardly the only option for a Turkey Day viewing. A wealth of stories await, ready to enhance your holiday mood.
Consider *What’s Cooking?* (2000), a film that beautifully dismantles the myth of a monolithic Thanksgiving tradition. It weaves together the stories of four ethnically diverse families – Latino, Vietnamese, Jewish, and African American – as they prepare their own unique feasts and navigate their own complex family dynamics. With a stellar cast including Mercedes Ruehl, Kyra Sedgwick, and Alfre Woodard, it’s a vibrant reminder that every family brings its own history and flavor to the table.
Sometimes, the most relatable Thanksgiving stories are the ones steeped in a little chaos. *Home for the Holidays* (1995), directed by Jodie Foster, captures this perfectly. Holly Hunter plays a single mother returning to her family for Thanksgiving, bracing herself for the inevitable storm of sibling rivalry, eccentric relatives, and long-buried secrets. Robert Downey Jr. and Anne Bancroft add to the delightful dysfunction.
Of course, no discussion of Thanksgiving movies is complete without acknowledging *Planes, Trains, and Automobiles* (1987). John Hughes masterfully portrays the universal anxieties of holiday travel, amplifying them to comedic heights through the mismatched pairing of Steve Martin and John Candy. It’s a film that resonates because it taps into the shared experience of battling delays, lost luggage, and the sheer exhaustion of trying to “get home.”
For a dose of pure nostalgia, look no further than *A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving* (1972). This beloved animated special, though brief, packs a powerful punch of holiday spirit. Charlie Brown’s earnest attempt to provide a Thanksgiving feast for his friends, despite his limited culinary skills, is a heartwarming reminder of the true meaning of gratitude and friendship.
If you’re seeking something a little darker, *Addams Family Values* (1993) offers a delightfully macabre take on the holiday. The Addams family, with their unique brand of affection and unwavering loyalty, are arguably more loving than many conventional families. Their subversive Thanksgiving play is a brilliant satire of historical narratives.
Ang Lee’s *The Ice Storm* (1997) offers a starkly different Thanksgiving experience. Set in 1973, the film delves into the hidden tensions and unspoken desires simmering beneath the surface of suburban life. It’s a mature and thought-provoking exploration of family secrets and the complexities of human relationships.
*Pieces of April* (2003) is a charming indie dramedy centered around a dysfunctional family and an unconventional Thanksgiving. Katie Holmes stars as April, determined to host her estranged family despite her limited resources and chaotic life. It’s a poignant story about the lengths we go to for those we love, even when things don’t go as planned.
For those who enjoy a bit of a thrill, *Thanksgiving* (2023) delivers a darkly comedic slasher experience. Inspired by real-life Black Friday incidents, the film unleashes a wave of holiday-themed revenge, offering a unique and unsettling twist on the Thanksgiving tradition.
Sometimes, the most relatable stories are about finding your place. *Lez Bomb* (2018) is a charming comedy about a woman preparing to come out to her family at Thanksgiving, only to have her plans complicated by an unexpected guest. It’s a funny and heartwarming exploration of identity and acceptance.
*For Your Consideration* (2006), a Christopher Guest mockumentary, satirizes the absurdity of Oscar season. The film follows the production of a small indie film that unexpectedly gains buzz, leading to a hilarious and insightful look at the world of Hollywood and the lengths people will go to for recognition.
Greta Gerwig shines in *Mistress America* (2015), a screwball comedy about a college freshman and her charismatic, yet chaotic, soon-to-be stepmother. Their adventures culminate in a uniquely New York Thanksgiving dinner, filled with humor and poignant moments.
*The Humans* (2021) is a psychological drama that explores the anxieties and unspoken traumas that often surface during family gatherings. Set during a Thanksgiving dinner, the film delves into the complexities of family relationships and the weight of the past.
For a truly unconventional Thanksgiving experience, *The House of Yes* (1997) is a darkly comedic gem. Parker Posey delivers a captivating performance as a woman who believes she is Jackie Onassis, leading to a wildly chaotic and unforgettable Thanksgiving celebration.
*The Daytrippers* (1996) offers a slice of ‘90s indie charm. A family embarks on a spontaneous road trip the day after Thanksgiving to confront a cheating husband, leading to a series of unexpected encounters and revelations.
*The Myth of Fingerprints* (1997) provides a nuanced portrayal of upper-middle-class family dysfunction. The film unravels the complex relationships and hidden resentments within a family gathering for Thanksgiving, offering a subtle and humorous perspective.
Even silent films can evoke the spirit of gratitude. Charlie Chaplin’s *The Gold Rush* (1925) features a memorable Thanksgiving scene where the Tramp and his companion cook and consume one of his shoes, a poignant reminder to appreciate even the simplest of blessings.
For a family-friendly option with a touch of whimsy, *Turkey Hollow* (2015) follows a divorced father and his children as they spend Thanksgiving with his eccentric aunt and encounter a local legend. Produced by the Jim Henson Company, it’s a delightful adventure for all ages.
The first *Spider-Man* film (2002) includes a pivotal Thanksgiving scene where Peter Parker’s dual life as a superhero begins to unravel. The tension and underlying drama add a unique layer to the holiday festivities.
Martin Scorsese’s *The Last Waltz* (1978) captures the bittersweet farewell performance of The Band. Recorded on Thanksgiving 1976, the concert film is a poignant reflection on the end of an era in rock and roll.
Finally, *My Blue Heaven* (1990) offers a lighthearted and goofy Thanksgiving experience. Steve Martin shines as a mobster in witness protection, struggling to adapt to suburban life and navigate the challenges of blending in.
