4 Superhero Films That Are Actually Perfect Christmas Movies

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Superhero movies are usually released in the summer when kids are out of school and can convince their parents to go see them. Because of this summer release schedule, these films generally avoid being tied to specific holidays or dates. This allows fans to enjoy them at any time without worrying about the timing feeling off. However, it also means it’s unlikely you’ll be watching Captain America or Superman with the family during the holiday season.

It’s easy to get tired of the same Christmas movies every year. You can only watch films like A Christmas Story and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation so many times before they lose their appeal. So, here are four superhero movies that surprisingly make great choices for the holiday season.

4) Batman Returns

Matt Reeves suggests Batman loves Halloween, since his 2022 movie is set around that time. But Tim Burton has a different idea – his film Batman Returns is strongly associated with Christmas.

Interestingly, Batman Returns is set during Christmas, and the holiday is more than just a backdrop – it’s woven into the story. The lighting of Gotham’s Christmas tree is a recurring image, and the villain, Max Shreck, bears a striking resemblance to Ebenezer Scrooge, seemingly determined to spoil everyone’s holiday spirit.

3) Iron Man 3

Many fans consider Hawkeye the best Christmas-themed project in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and it’s easy to see why – the final fight happens near a Christmas tree, and Hawkeye’s main goal is to be home with his family for the holidays. However, a movie from Phase Two of the MCU actually deserves that title more.

During Iron Man 3, Tony Stark finds himself struggling against A.I.M. and its leader, Aldrich Killian, right as the Christmas season begins. However, unlike the Grinch, Tony welcomes the holiday spirit and uses it as an opportunity to give his new friend, Harley Keener, some cool technology.

2) Shazam!

The DC Extended Universe is often criticized for being too dark and serious, particularly when Superman appears. However, one of the most heartwarming and authentic Superman scenes actually happens in a surprisingly good movie in the series – and it’s a Christmas-themed moment, too!

Billy Batson’s life is turned upside down in Shazam! when he’s moved to a new foster home and unexpectedly gains superpowers from a mysterious Wizard. Instead of just hoping for presents, he must battle the villainous Doctor Sivana at a Christmas market and protect his foster family as they try to enjoy the New Year.

1) Batman: Mask of the Phantasm

Despite most superhero films releasing in the summer, Batman: Mask of the Phantasm unexpectedly premiered on Christmas Day in 1993. While it doesn’t openly display sentimental feelings, this animated film has a subtle holiday atmosphere.

The main villain in the film has a ghostly appearance, something common in Christmas movies like A Christmas Carol. The influence of Dickens’ story doesn’t stop there; the plot also explores what Bruce Wayne’s life would be like if he didn’t have his darker side, a conflict that echoes Scrooge’s own journey.

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2025-12-23 21:16