As a movie enthusiast who has spent countless Thanksgivings huddled around the TV screen, I can confidently say that some of my most cherished holiday moments have been spent watching these classic films. And let me tell you, nothing quite compares to the heartwarming chaos of “Planes, Trains and Automobiles.
The movies discussed ahead are highly acclaimed by critics, particularly those that focus on the Thanksgiving theme. To be considered among the “best of the best,” a film needs to have an impressive rating, but it’s not necessarily the sole deciding factor. These films must have at least a 70% rating on the review aggregator site, indicating they are generally well-received by critics and worth watching. However, some excellent movies like Jodie Foster’s “Home for the Holidays” (64%) and the quirky horror comedy “Black Friday” (65%) fell short of meeting this threshold.
Keep in mind that certain specific types of movies were not included. Short films, such as those featuring Charlie Brown and Snoopy, were not considered. Additionally, movies that blend Thanksgiving and Christmas themes, particularly those leaning more towards Christmas, like “The Santa Clause” or “Miracle on 34th Street,” were also excluded. Furthermore, the selected movie needed to be a theatrical release, either limited or wide, and it had to incorporate a substantial plotline about Thanksgiving or family dynamics, not just a passing scene during Thanksgiving.
Addams Family Values (1993) – 75%
Despite not matching the financial success of its predecessor, “Addams Family Values” is among a select group of sequels that surpass the original in numerous aspects. It skillfully outshines the original in almost every conceivable category. Additionally, it fearlessly explores the dark themes inherent to its roots in the “The New Yorker” cartoons, without veering too far into excessive darkness, as both the TV series and the initial film did. However, what truly won over critics was the sequel’s heightened focus on character development.
In the initial movie, there were too many over-the-top scenes that drew negative comments, but it received positive feedback for its impressive set design and casting choices. These aspects are consistently present in “Addams Family Values“, enhanced by a more focused script and an entertaining antagonist portrayal from Joan Cusack. However, the standout aspect remains Christina Ricci’s performance as Wednesday Addams, who appears even more confident in her role this time around compared to the first film.
Tadpole (2002) – 77%
This low-cost independent film, titled “Oscar Grubman’s Unconventional Crush,” centers around Oscar Grubman, a 15-year-old boy played by Aaron Stanford (known as Pyro in Deadpool and Wolverine). Unlike his contemporaries, Oscar finds himself drawn to older women, appreciating their understanding of French language and love for Voltaire. His affection is particularly directed towards one woman much older than him – his stepmother, portrayed by Sigourney Weaver. With the upcoming Thanksgiving vacation, Oscar plans to pursue this unconventional infatuation.
Despite the questionable plot (it’s worth noting that Stanford was 23 years old, not 15, and there’s no romantic involvement with his stepmother), critics found the film’s boldness endearing. Stanford’s work received widespread acclaim, as did Bebe Neuwirth’s supporting performance. However, some criticized its brief runtime of only 77 minutes.
Prisoners (2013) – 81%
Denis Villeneuve’s film “Prisoners” is nothing like a cheerful holiday movie for Thanksgiving. Instead, it’s intense, suspenseful, and showcases exceptional performances from Hugh Jackman, who gives his best career showing in this film. The story revolves around the parents of two abducted girls in Pennsylvania, with a strong focus on Jackman’s character, Keller Dover, who takes matters into his own hands by kidnapping the man he suspects is responsible for the girls’ disappearance.
The film received numerous accolades for its music, visuals, among other elements. However, the most significant appreciation went to Jackman. Indeed, his portrayal on screen was so captivating that viewers found every emotional scene he appeared in utterly convincing. Similarly, praise was given to Jake Gyllenhaal for his role as Detective Loki, delivering a performance that was almost equally impressive and unsettling (although in a unique manner).
Instant Family (2018) – 82%
The film, “Instant Family,” introduces us to the Wagner duo, Pete (Mark Wahlberg) and Ellie (Rose Byrne), who grow weary of fielding family questions about having children. Intrigued by the idea of adoption, they encounter Lizzie (Isabela Merced) and feel an immediate bond. However, they soon discover that Lizzie is not available individually; she comes as a set of three siblings. As a result, Pete and Ellie find themselves navigating both the process of getting acquainted with and raising not just one, but all three kids.
Films similar to “Instant Family” aren’t produced by major studios very frequently. It openly displays its emotions, but not to an overly sweet degree. Instead, it offers equal parts warmth and authenticity, and has helped elevate the profile of Merced, who delivered a critically acclaimed performance in this film as well as “Sicario: Day of the Soldado” within the same year.
Thanksgiving (2023) – 84%
In the past, when Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez’s masterpiece “Grindhouse” graced the silver screens, fortunate viewers were treated to enticing previews that weren’t actually part of the film – a concept later echoed by “Tropic Thunder”. A year prior, this was quite unusual, yet hilarious. Although Rob Zombie hasn’t brought “Werewolf Women of the S.S.” to life as a full-length movie, Rodriguez has directed not just one but two installments of “Machete”. Interestingly enough, he’s not alone in transforming a passion project fake trailer into a reality; Eli Roth finally saw his creation, “Thanksgiving”, come to life on the big screen.
Instead of being as humorous as “Machete”, Roth’s traditional slasher film was equally bloody, winning praise from both fans and critics alike. Achieving this balance is quite an accomplishment, given that the slasher subgenre often faces criticism from many critics. They admired its self-aware humor and terrifying horror scenes, with several predicting that it would end up being a beloved annual tradition for years to come.
Pieces of April (2003) – 84%
Title alteration: A Taste of April
The movie revolves around a race-against-the-clock scenario, where April is busy preparing a meal for her family and dealing with the apprehension of reconnecting with them. Critics appreciated the film’s relatable human aspect and sweetness, commending the acting skills of the cast. Notably, Katie Holmes delivers an outstanding performance as the main character, while Patricia Clarkson garnered an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of April’s mother, Joy.
Scent of a Woman (1992) – 85%
“Scent of a Woman” is essentially a heartwarming movie for a lazy Sunday afternoon, reminiscent of those shown on cable during the 2000s. The story unfolds around Chris O’Donnell’s character, Charlie Simms, who temporarily works as an assistant to retired Army Lieutenant Colonel Frank Slade (Al Pacino). Initially, Frank appears intimidating to Charlie, but over time, he imparts valuable life lessons that Charlie would benefit from learning.
Although some critics believed the drama could have been shorter, many appreciated various aspects of it. Particularly, Pacino’s performance was universally praised, earning him the long-awaited Academy Award for Best Actor. He captivates in this role, and his acting compensates for the film’s less compelling storyline.
Spider-Man (2002) – 90%
Undoubtedly, Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man holds the record for the highest-grossing film released during Thanksgiving, and it was equally well-received by both audiences and critics. Similar to Richard Donner’s Superman and Tim Burton’s Batman, Spider-Man stands as a significant contribution to the superhero movie genre. Moreover, the family dinner scene in this movie is particularly noteworthy.
The film received widespread acclaim for various aspects, such as its thrilling action scenes – even one taking place during a parade similar to Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade – and the emotional depth contributed by both the script and the actors. Raimi’s direction was universally lauded, along with the casting choices, particularly Tobey Maguire, Willem Dafoe, and J.K. Simmons. Additionally, numerous critics pointed out the now-iconic scene of the upside-down kiss.
Hannah and Her Sisters (1986) – 91%
Woody Allen’s film, “Hannah and Her Sisters,” unfolds across three consecutive Thanksgiving holidays, focusing significantly on the first and last ones. The protagonist, Hannah, played by Mia Farrow, finds her husband Elliot (Michael Caine) developing feelings for her sister Lee (Barbara Hershey). Meanwhile, Hannah’s former spouse Mickey (Allen) starts to grow closer to her other sister, Holly (Dianne Wiest).
Generally acclaimed as one of Allen’s top films, “Hannah and Her Sisters” garnered widespread admiration for its wit and humor. It was even nominated for the prestigious Academy Award for Best Picture, with Allen himself receiving a nomination for Best Director; it ultimately won for Best Screenplay. In 1990, Roger Ebert, in his list of the top 10 movies from the ’80s, declared it the best comedy film of the decade.
Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987) – 92%
The almost R-rated “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” stands out as the quintessential Thanksgiving film, whether it’s a comedy or otherwise. Featuring Steve Martin and the late John Candy, this movie follows two strangers who face numerous obstacles on their way to Chicago, where Martin’s character Neal aims to reunite with his family for Thanksgiving. As the trip progresses, Candy’s character Del becomes increasingly annoying to Neal, but in the end, Neal learns not only to avoid judging people based on first impressions, but also to truly value what he possesses.
In contrast to John Hughes’ usual teen comedy films, “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” was considered a change of pace. However, the emotional core of his previous works remains evident. In reality, this movie is arguably the most tender and heartwarming film Hughes ever created, and over time, it has proven to be more timeless than the rest of his work. The film’s strength lies in its stellar casting of Martin and Candy, who give outstanding performances and exhibit a chemistry that never grows stale. By the end of the movie, their dynamic feels like one worth investing in.
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2024-11-24 17:10