Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones, enjoying a hearty meal, and expressing gratitude. As part of the holiday tradition, many people indulge in watching classic Thanksgiving movies that encapsulate the spirit of the season. These films often center around themes of family, gratitude, and giving thanks.
Here are five classic Thanksgiving movies that have stood the test of time and continue to be beloved favorites:
1. “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” (1987): This comedy film follows the misadventures of Neal Page and Del Griffith as they try to make it home in time for Thanksgiving. With its hilarious antics and heartwarming moments, this movie showcases the importance of friendship and finding gratitude amidst challenging situations.
2. “Home for the Holidays” (1995): Directed by Jodie Foster, this film tells the story of Claudia Larson, a single mother who returns home for Thanksgiving. The movie explores the dynamics of a dysfunctional yet loving family, highlighting the joys and struggles that come with familial relationships.
3. “Miracle on 34th Street” (1947): While not explicitly centered around Thanksgiving, this classic Christmas movie often marks the start of the holiday season. The film follows the story of Kris Kringle, a man claiming to be the real Santa Claus, as he spreads holiday cheer and teaches others the true meaning of faith and belief.
4. “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” (1973): This animated special from the “Peanuts” franchise has become a Thanksgiving staple for many families. It features Charlie Brown and his friends as they navigate the challenges of preparing their own Thanksgiving feast and learn the value of friendship and togetherness.
5. “Pieces of April” (2003): Set on Thanksgiving Day, this indie film follows April Burns as she attempts to host Thanksgiving dinner for her estranged family. Through its raw and emotional storytelling, the movie explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the power of coming together, even in the face of adversity.
These classic Thanksgiving movies offer entertainment, laughter, and heartfelt moments that capture the essence of the holiday. Whether you’re in the mood for comedy, drama, or animated fun, these films are sure to add warmth and nostalgia to your Thanksgiving celebrations.
Key takeaway:
- “Planes, Trains and Automobiles”: This classic Thanksgiving movie follows two mismatched travelers who must overcome various obstacles to make it home in time for Thanksgiving dinner.
- “Home for the Holidays”: In this heartfelt film, a woman navigates the ups and downs of family dynamics during the Thanksgiving holiday, reminding viewers of the importance of family and love.
- “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving”: This beloved animated movie tells the story of Charlie Brown and his friends as they come together to celebrate Thanksgiving, highlighting the themes of friendship and gratitude.
What Are Classic Thanksgiving Movies?
- What Are Classic Thanksgiving Movies? Classic Thanksgiving movies are a great way to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy some quality time with family and friends. Here are some must-watch films to add to your Thanksgiving movie marathon:
- Planes, Trains, and Automobiles – A hilarious comedy about two mismatched travelers trying to make it home for Thanksgiving.
- Home for the Holidays – This film follows a dysfunctional family as they come together for Thanksgiving, capturing the joys and challenges of family gatherings.
- A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving – A classic animated film that tells the story of Charlie Brown and his friends as they celebrate Thanksgiving.
- Pieces of April – A heartwarming drama about a young woman who invites her estranged family to her apartment for Thanksgiving dinner.
- What’s Cooking? – This film explores the lives of four diverse Los Angeles families as they prepare for Thanksgiving.
Pro-tip: Don’t forget to prepare some delicious Thanksgiving snacks and cozy up with blankets for a truly memorable movie night!
1. “Planes, Trains and Automobiles”
In the beloved classic Thanksgiving film, “Planes, Trains and Automobiles,” prepare to embark on a chaotic and hilarious journey. With memorable characters, a gripping storyline, and thought-provoking themes, this section will take a closer look at the synopsis, main characters, and underlying themes that make this movie an enduring holiday favorite. So buckle up, grab your popcorn, and get ready to delve into the world of Thanksgiving mishaps and heartwarming moments.
Synopsis
When it comes to classic Thanksgiving movies, there are several options to choose from. Here are brief synopses of some popular picks:
1. “Planes, Trains and Automobiles”: Steve Martin and John Candy star in this comedy as two mismatched travelers trying to make it home for Thanksgiving. Hilarious mishaps and misadventures add to the chaos of their journey.
2. “Home for the Holidays”: Directed by Jodie Foster, this film follows Claudia, played by Holly Hunter, as she navigates the comedy and drama of her dysfunctional family gathering during Thanksgiving.
3. “Miracle on 34th Street”: Set during the holiday season, this heartwarming movie tells the story of a man claiming to be the real Santa Claus and the impact he has on those around him.
4. “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving”: The Peanuts gang comes together for a festive feast in this animated film that delivers a warm holiday message about the importance of friendship and gratitude.
5. “Pieces of April”: This indie dramedy explores the dynamics of a family’s Thanksgiving gathering, focusing on April, played by Katie Holmes, as she attempts to prepare a meal for her estranged family.
Thanksgiving is an annual holiday celebrated in the United States on the fourth Thursday of November. It commemorates a harvest festival celebrated by the Pilgrims in 1621, who gave thanks for a successful harvest. Today, it is a time for families and friends to come together, share a meal, and express gratitude for the blessings in their lives.
Main Characters
| Film | Main Characters |
| “Planes, Trains and Automobiles“ | Neal Page (Steve Martin), Del Griffith (John Candy) |
| “Home for the Holidays“ | Claudia Larson (Holly Hunter), Adele Larson (Anne Bancroft) |
| “Miracle on 34th Street“ | Kris Kringle (Edmund Gwenn), Doris Walker (Maureen O’Hara) |
| “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving“ | Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Peppermint Patty |
| “Pieces of April“ | April Burns (Katie Holmes), Joy Burns (Patricia Clarkson) |
Themes
The movies explore a variety of themes, including family dynamics, gratitude, togetherness, and the importance of traditions. These films often showcase the joys and challenges of coming together as a family during the holiday season, while also touching on themes of forgiveness, acceptance, and the power of love and connection. Some movies take a comedic approach, highlighting the chaos and humor that can arise during Thanksgiving family gatherings. Overall, these films aim to capture the spirit of Thanksgiving and deliver messages of love, gratitude, and the value of spending quality time with loved ones. To incorporate the suggested keywords, the storyline could further emphasize themes of gratitude and forgiveness. It could also delve deeper into the dynamics of a multi-generational family, highlighting the importance of traditions and creating cherished memories. Combining comedy with heartfelt moments would ensure an enjoyable and relatable experience for viewers.
2. “Home for the Holidays”
Experience the heartwarming charm of “Home for the Holidays” in this section as we take a closer look at its synopsis, main characters, and themes. Join us on a journey filled with laughter, love, and the magic of coming together during the Thanksgiving season. Get ready to be captivated by the story that unfolds, the unforgettable characters that inhabit it, and the profound themes that resonate long after the credits roll.
Synopsis
| Movie | Synopsis |
| “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” | A man and a travel salesman share a tumultuous journey as they navigate various modes of transportation to get home in time for Thanksgiving. |
| “Home for the Holidays” | A troubled woman returns to her chaotic family for Thanksgiving, leading to a series of comedic and heartfelt moments. |
| “Miracle on 34th Street” | A man claiming to be Santa Claus goes on trial, prompting a young girl and her mother to discover the true meaning of Christmas. |
| “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” | Charlie Brown and his friends plan a Thanksgiving feast, but things go awry and they learn the importance of togetherness. |
| “Pieces of April” | A woman invites her estranged family to her tiny apartment for Thanksgiving dinner, leading to unexpected confrontations and heartfelt moments. |
If you’re looking to enjoy classic Thanksgiving movies, these heartwarming and humorous films are highly recommended. Whether you prefer a comedy like “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” or a family-centered tale like “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving”, these movies offer a perfect blend of entertainment and holiday spirit. So gather your loved ones, grab some popcorn, and get ready for a Thanksgiving movie marathon that will fill your heart with warmth and laughter.
Main Characters
In classic Thanksgiving movies, the main characters play a significant role in driving the story and providing entertainment. Here are some remarkable main characters from popular Thanksgiving films:
| 1. “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” | – Neal Page (Steve Martin) – A marketing executive trying to get home for Thanksgiving. | – Del Griffith (John Candy) – A clumsy, talkative shower curtain ring salesman who unintentionally causes chaos. |
|---|---|---|
| 2. “Home for the Holidays” | – Claudia Larson (Holly Hunter) – A single mother facing family tensions during Thanksgiving. | – Tommy Larson (Robert Downey Jr.) – Claudia’s brother, adding a touch of humor and drama. |
| 3. “Miracle on 34th Street” | – Kris Kringle (Edmund Gwenn) – The kind and jolly man who claims to be the real Santa Claus. | – Doris Walker (Maureen O’Hara) – A skeptical single mother who learns to believe in the magic of Christmas. |
| 4. “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” | – Charlie Brown – The lovable and often misunderstood character who tries to organize a Thanksgiving feast. | – Snoopy and Woodstock – Charlie Brown’s loyal dog and bird companion who add humor to the story. |
| 5. “Pieces of April” | – April Burns (Katie Holmes) – A troubled woman trying to cook Thanksgiving dinner for her dysfunctional family. | – Joy Burns (Patricia Clarkson) – April’s terminally ill mother, bringing emotional depth to the film. |
These main characters, along with others, contribute to the overall charm, humor, drama, and heartwarming moments in classic Thanksgiving movies.
If you’re in the mood for more films with memorable main characters, you can also consider watching “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” or “Home for the Holidays”. These movies offer a similar tone and are sure to entertain you during the Thanksgiving season.
Themes
Themes in classic Thanksgiving movies vary from family dynamics and traditions to gratitude and the importance of coming together.
- Family dynamics: Many movies explore the complexities and tensions within families during Thanksgiving gatherings, such as “Home for the Holidays” and “Pieces of April.“
- Traditions: Films like “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” and “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” showcase the importance of traditional Thanksgiving celebrations.
- Gratitude: Movies like “Miracle on 34th Street” and “Free Birds” highlight gratitude and appreciation during the holiday season.
- Coming together: Thanksgiving movies often emphasize the power of unity and the joy of spending time together as seen in “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” and “Pieces of April.”
3. “Miracle on 34th Street”
Step into the enchanting world of “Miracle on 34th Street” as we delve into its captivating storyline, unforgettable characters, and thought-provoking themes. Get ready to be transported to a realm where magic and belief intertwine, where a department store Santa Claus sparks a journey of self-discovery and challenges societal norms. From the heartwarming synopsis to the exploration of key themes, this sub-section promises to unravel the timeless charm and significance of this classic Thanksgiving movie.
Synopsis
The article discusses five classic Thanksgiving movies and provides a synopsis, main characters, and themes for each. The movies include “Planes, Trains and Automobiles,” “Home for the Holidays,” “Miracle on 34th Street,” “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving,” and “Pieces of April.” Each film offers a unique perspective on Thanksgiving, with themes ranging from family dynamics and holiday traditions to love and gratitude. These movies, with their heartfelt stories and memorable characters, capture the essence of Thanksgiving and are enjoyable for the whole family to watch and reflect on during the holiday season.
Each of these classic Thanksgiving movies comes with a captivating synopsis that introduces the storyline, main characters, and underlying themes. From the comedic mishaps in “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” to the heartfelt family gatherings portrayed in “Home for the Holidays,” these films offer a diverse range of perspectives on Thanksgiving. Delve into the magical world of “Miracle on 34th Street” or join “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” for a heartwarming journey through friendship and gratitude. “Pieces of April” explores the complexities of familial relationships during the holiday season. In each of these heartfelt movies, viewers can find themes that resonate with their own experiences, from the dynamics of family to the cherished traditions of Thanksgiving. Gather your loved ones, embrace the spirit of gratitude, and enjoy these Thanksgiving classics that capture the true essence of the holiday.
Main Characters
| Movie | Main Characters |
| “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” | Neal Page, Del Griffith |
| “Home for the Holidays” | Claudia Larson, Tommy Larson |
| “Miracle on 34th Street” | Kris Kringle, Susan Walker, Doris Walker |
| “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” | Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Woodstock |
| “Pieces of April” | April Burns, Joy Burns, Jim Burns |
Themes
The themes explored in classic Thanksgiving movies offer a range of emotions and lessons that resonate with viewers.
- Family dynamics: Films like “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” and “Home for the Holidays” delve into the complexities of family relationships and the challenges that arise during holiday gatherings.
- Gratitude and appreciation: “Miracle on 34th Street” and “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” remind us of the importance of gratitude and the power of coming together for a shared meal.
- Humor and laughter: Movies like “Pieces of April” and “Addams Family Values” infuse slapstick humor and witty banter to bring levity to the Thanksgiving table.
- Tradition and nostalgia: Films like “Winnie the Pooh Thanksgiving” and “The Big Chill” capture the sentimentality and nostalgia associated with cherished traditions and reminiscing.
4. “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving”
“A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” takes us on a delightful and heartwarming adventure filled with friendship, laughter, and of course, a memorable Thanksgiving feast. From the charming synopsis that unfolds before our eyes to the endearing main characters that steal our hearts, this animated classic brings to life the true essence of gratitude and togetherness. Join us as we explore the enchanting themes that make “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” a timeless treasure for all ages.
Synopsis
| Classic Thanksgiving Movies |
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1. “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” A mismatched duo, played by Steve Martin and John Candy, navigate a series of misadventures and travel mishaps as they desperately try to make it home for Thanksgiving. Synopsis |
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2. “Home for the Holidays” A troubled woman, played by Holly Hunter, navigates family drama, quirky relatives, and painful obligations as she returns home for Thanksgiving. Synopsis |
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3. “Miracle on 34th Street” In this heartwarming Christmas movie with a touch of Thanksgiving, a kind old man claims to be the real Santa Claus and goes on trial to prove his authenticity. Synopsis |
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4. “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” The Peanuts gang gathers for a Thanksgiving feast, but Charlie Brown faces multiple challenges while trying to prepare a proper meal for his friends. Synopsis |
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5. “Pieces of April” A troubled young woman played by Katie Holmes attempts to reconcile with her estranged family by preparing a Thanksgiving meal in her small apartment. Synopsis |
Main Characters
The Main Characters play a crucial role in shaping the storyline and creating unforgettable moments in classic Thanksgiving movies. Films such as “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” revolve around characters like Neal Page and Del Griffith, who embark on a chaotic journey to reach home in time for Thanksgiving. In “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving,” beloved characters like Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and Woodstock face various challenges while preparing a Thanksgiving feast. “Pieces of April” follows April Burns and her family as they navigate family dynamics and personal struggles during their Thanksgiving gathering. These Main Characters bring humor, emotion, and relatability to these timeless Thanksgiving movies.
Themes
Classic Thanksgiving movies often explore a variety of themes, such as family, gratitude, and togetherness. Within these films, like “Planes, Trains and Automobiles,” there is a deliberate focus on the importance of friendship and unity during the holiday season. Another classic, “Home for the Holidays,” takes a deep dive into the complexities of familial relationships. Additionally, “Miracle on 34th Street” highlights the power of belief and captures the true spirit of Christmas. Furthermore, “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” effectively teaches the value of inclusivity and generosity. Lastly, “Pieces of April” showcases the transformative nature of forgiveness and second chances. These profound themes resonate with audiences of all ages and continually remind us of the true meaning behind Thanksgiving.
5. “Pieces of April”
“Pieces of April” serves as a captivating chapter within the realm of classic Thanksgiving movies. Delving into its intriguing synopsis, memorable characters, and thought-provoking themes, this sub-section presents an exquisite tale that lingers in the hearts of viewers. With its blend of emotion, humor, and compelling storytelling, “Pieces of April” promises a cinematic experience that beautifully captures the essence and complexities of the Thanksgiving season.
Synopsis
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“Planes, Trains and Automobiles“ A comedy about two men, Neal Page and Del Griffith, who inadvertently become travel partners as they try to make it home in time for Thanksgiving despite numerous obstacles and misadventures. |
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“Home for the Holidays” The film follows Claudia Larson as she returns to her childhood home for Thanksgiving, where she navigates family dynamics, confronts past secrets, and finds laughter and healing amidst the chaos. |
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“Miracle on 34th Street“ This heartwarming Christmas film centers around a man claiming to be the real Santa Claus. As his authenticity is put to the test in court, the film explores themes of belief, kindness, and the magic of the holiday season. |
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“A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving“ The Peanuts gang gathers for a Thanksgiving feast organized by Charlie Brown. The animated special showcases the true meaning of friendship, gratitude, and the power of coming together as a community. |
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“Pieces of April” April, a troubled woman, invites her estranged family for Thanksgiving dinner in her small apartment. This indie drama explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the complexities of family relationships. |
Main Characters
The main characters in classic Thanksgiving movies play a significant role in bringing the stories to life and engaging the audience. Here are some examples of iconic characters from popular Thanksgiving films:
For a list of classic Thanksgiving movies, you can check out classic thanksgiving movies on Collider.com.
| Movie | Main Characters |
|---|---|
| “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” | Neal Page (Steve Martin) and Del Griffith (John Candy) |
| “Home for the Holidays” | Claudia Larson (Holly Hunter) and Tommy Larson (Robert Downey Jr.) |
| “Miracle on 34th Street” | Kris Kringle (Edmund Gwenn) and Doris Walker (Maureen O’Hara) |
| “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” | Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and Peppermint Patty |
| “Pieces of April” | April Burns (Katie Holmes) and Joy Burns (Patricia Clarkson) |
These compelling characters bring humor, warmth, and a touch of drama to the films, making them memorable for audiences of all ages. Fact: “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” was originally broadcast in 1973 and has since become a beloved holiday tradition.
Themes
Classic Thanksgiving movies offer a range of themes that contribute to the holiday spirit. When selecting a film, it’s important to consider these themes. Here is a list of themes found in popular Thanksgiving films:
| 1. Family dynamics: | “Home for the Holidays” and “Pieces of April” delve into the complexities of family relationships during Thanksgiving gatherings. |
| 2. Gratitude and appreciation: | “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” and “Miracle on 34th Street” emphasize the importance of gratitude and the true meaning of the holiday. |
| 3. Comedy and humor: | Movies like “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” and “Addams Family Values” provide hilarious moments and entertainment during the Thanksgiving season. |
| 4. Tradition and nostalgia: | “Winnie the Pooh Thanksgiving” and “Free Birds” celebrate the timeless traditions associated with Thanksgiving. |
| 5. Food and feasting: | Thanksgiving movies often highlight the joy and significance of sharing a meal with loved ones. This is depicted in movies such as “Pieces of April” and “Planes, Trains and Automobiles.” |
These themes add depth and enhance the enjoyment of classic Thanksgiving movies. They make them perfect for family viewing during the holiday season.
Some Facts About Classic Thanksgiving Movies:
- ✅ “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” (1987) is a classic Thanksgiving movie that follows the hilarious journey of two hapless travelers trying to get home for Thanksgiving. (Source: Town & Country)
- ✅ “Pieces of April” (2003) explores the awkwardness that arises when a young woman invites her estranged family to her small NYC apartment for Thanksgiving dinner. (Source: Town & Country)
- ✅ “The Ice Storm” (1997) and “Krisha” (2015) are Thanksgiving movies that delve into the tensions and conflicts that arise when family members who may not get along are forced to spend time together. (Source: Our Team)
- ✅ “Funny People” (2009) and “Addams Family Values” (1993) may not be traditionally associated with Thanksgiving, but they have memorable scenes set around the Thanksgiving table. (Source: Our Team)
- ✅ “Fantastic Mr. Fox” (2009) is an animated adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic that showcases the importance of family, friends, and feasts. (Source: Town & Country)
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some classic Thanksgiving movies?
Some classic Thanksgiving movies include “Planes, Trains & Automobiles,” “Pieces of April,” “The Ice Storm,” “The Santa Clause,” “Addams Family Values,” and “Miracle on 34th St.”
Do Christmas movies also feature in the list of classic Thanksgiving movies?
Yes, some Christmas movies like “The Santa Clause” and “Miracle on 34th St.” have Thanksgiving scenes and are often included in lists of classic Thanksgiving movies.
Is “You’ve Got Mail” a Thanksgiving movie?
“You’ve Got Mail” is not primarily a Thanksgiving movie, but it has a cozy autumnal vibe and features a particular scene where Joe rushes to save a work enemy on Thanksgiving Day.
Which movies are suitable for the whole family to enjoy on Thanksgiving?
Movies like “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving,” “Fantastic Mr. Fox,” and “Home for the Holidays” are great options for family-friendly Thanksgiving movies.
Are there any hidden gems or cult classics among the classic Thanksgiving movies?
Yes, movies like “The Big Chill,” “Krisha,” and “Pieces of April” are considered hidden gems or cult classics among Thanksgiving movies due to their unique storytelling and social commentary.
Can you recommend a feel-good romance movie for Thanksgiving?
“One True Thing” is a feel-good romance movie set during the autumn and holiday season, making it a perfect choice for Thanksgiving.