The Best Marvel Movies and Shows to Watch at Christmas

As someone who’s spent countless holidays huddled around the TV, munching on popcorn and marveling at the magic of Marvel Cinematic Universe, I must say that the holiday season has never felt so super-charged! The MCU has been my trusted companion during these festive times, and it seems they’ve been listening to my wishes.

As a passionate film critic, I must say that it’s quite rare to encounter a superhero movie or series that takes place during a holiday. However, when it comes to holidays that have garnered some attention in the Marvel universe, none stands out more than Christmas. Here’s a list of all the Marvel movies (and shows) that embrace the festive spirit:

Washington D.C. boasts a duo of Christmas-themed superhero blockbusters, namely Batman Returns and Shazam! . Indeed, they’re worth giving a watch, but Marvel’s holiday movie selection might just outshine them. Prepare your list for must-see movies; some of these films could even be re-watched!

Spider-Man (2002)

The holidays of Thanksgiving and Christmas aren’t too distant from each other, and a great movie is enjoyable regardless of when you watch it. So, considering Sam Raimi’s “Spider-Man” set on Turkey Day might be a wise choice even during Christmastime. Furthermore, the Green Goblin has an elf-like appearance, though not the one found in Santa’s workshop.

Even after more than 20 years, it remains an entertaining and skillfully executed blockbuster that offers a mix of action sequences and humor. For individuals who have grown accustomed to Tom Holland’s Spider-Man films, the holiday season presents an excellent opportunity to explore the earlier theatrical journeys of Spider-Man dating back in time. However, for those who experienced Sam Raimi’s movie in theaters, 20 years might not seem so distant.

Iron Man 3 (2013)

As a die-hard movie enthusiast, I’ve got to say that Iron Man 3 has its fair share of both supporters and critics – and for good reason, as it deviates from the usual Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) formula. However, it’s hard to refute that it embodies classic Shane Black storytelling.

It’s quite clear that the trilogy finale is centered around Christmas, a theme that also appears prominently in many of his films such as Lethal Weapon, The Long Kiss Goodnight, and Kiss Kiss Bang Bang. Some movies like The Last Boy Scout and The Nice Guys have extensive Christmas themes, while others, like The Predator, only feature one scene set during the holiday. Interestingly, Iron Man 3 leans more towards the style of Lethal Weapon rather than The Last Boy Scout in terms of its Christmas focus. However, surprisingly, he admitted that the sequel being set in December was not his idea originally.

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)

The animated movie “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse”, initially might not seem like it, but co-writer Phil Lord later confirmed it as a Christmas film. Although there’s snow and a hint about Peter Parker singing on a holiday album (which became real), the movie generally doesn’t emphasize the holiday season heavily.

Regardless, “Into the Spider-Verse” and its follow-up are undeniably fantastic. The visuals are breathtakingly amazing, and the character development is exceptionally precise. It’s a superb choice for family viewing or even an enjoyable watch on your own as an adult.

Once Upon a Deadpool (2018)

Generally speaking, many parents might think that the original film, “Deadpool 2,” isn’t suitable for children due to its mature content. Conversely, “Once Upon a Deadpool” – a revamped version of the sequel – could be more acceptable. However, it’s worth noting that this version is not as strong, with many elements of the original sequel being toned down to achieve a PG-13 rating and incorporating a running gag based on “The Princess Bride.

Currently, “Once Upon a Deadpool” isn’t streaming on Disney+, and you can’t rent or buy it on Amazon. However, it is available for purchase on Blu-ray. To put it frankly, many consider this film the least impactful in the trilogy, given its sanitized nature. But let’s face it, Deadpool’s big-screen escapades aren’t likely to end with the blockbuster “Deadpool & Wolverine,” considering his knack for action.

Hawkeye (2021)

Among the standout Marvel Disney+ series so far, “Hawkeye” is a well-deserved solo venture for the title character who, for over a decade, has mostly played a supporting role in bigger MCU productions like “Captain America: Civil War” and Avengers films. This miniseries effectively balances time between Clint Barton and newcomer Kate Bishop, providing a fitting farewell for the former while organically introducing the latter. Jeremy Renner appears to enjoy the chance to delve more deeply into a character that was previously rather one-dimensional, particularly in 2012’s “The Avengers,” where he spends a significant amount of time as Loki’s mind-controlled puppet.

Hailee Steinfeld shines brilliantly as Bishop in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), giving her character a mix of determination and innocence that suits her well at the start of her MCU journey. Steinfeld has been one of the most enthralling newcomers to the MCU, and her chemistry with Florence Pugh (reprising her role as Yelena Belova from the same year’s Black Widow) is heartwarming. Alaqua Cox’s portrayal of Maya Lopez, aka Echo, in MCU is equally impressive and earned her own miniseries three years later. While Echo is definitely worth watching, the holiday-themed Hawkeye offers an even more delightful viewing experience during the festive season.

Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)

In “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” there’s just one Christmas-themed scene, but the entire film feels like an incredible gift for fans. It provides a delightful reunion with Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield’s portrayals of Spider-Man, characters that many had thought would never share the screen together. Remarkably, this collaboration has come to life, and it’s challenging to imagine a more satisfying outcome.

Tom Holland continues to shine as the main character, but “Spider-Man: No Way Home” showcases an impressive tightrope act by incorporating amusing lines for Maguire and compensating for the abrupt ending of Garfield’s portrayal. This Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) film is one that invites multiple viewings, making it a great choice to rewatch during Christmas season!

The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special (2022)

2022’s The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special is undeniably the epitome of Christmas cheer. In essence, it can be considered as an extension to Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, or perhaps even Vol. 2.5. Following Marvel Studios’ pattern, James Gunn’s 42-minute production was the second in the Special Presentation series, following Werewolf by Night from the previous month. Similar to Werewolf by Night, The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special is well-rounded and of high quality.

Instead of “Werewolf by Night,” it is strongly recommended to watch this particular Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) title as it plays a crucial role in MCU continuity. It serves as a prelude to “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3,” providing insights into the characters’ emotional journeys following the events of “Avengers: Endgame.” By the climax, two characters discover their bond runs deeper than blood and they are essentially family.

2024-12-14 21:11