What to Stream for December
Jordy Reviews it! - What to stream
In my house, the month of December is pretty much reserved for every holiday classic, with the occasional oddball or two in between. This list is surely representative of that. While I could write a miles-long December watchlist, I’ve narrowed it down to a couple yearly go-to’s for myself; as well as a few new releases that won’t scratch your Christmas itch, but are certainly films to look out for when you're considering what to stream for December.
Krampus (2015) | Hulu
I had to start this list with one of my all time favorites, horror-comedy Krampus. Written and directed by Michael Dougherty, this film is on par with other genre-bending creature classics, like Gremlins. The story follows a dysfunctional family, joined together by the joyous holiday for some standard tableside mayhem. When an unexpected blizzard rolls in, they’ll soon find their Christmas terrorized by the anti-Claus and his minions. With some inventive monsters, an immensely fun premise, and stellar performances by Adam Scott, Toni Collette, and David Koechner, Krampus is certainly the anti-Christmas film to see.
Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020) | Netflix
Written and directed by David E. Talbert, Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey is an uplifting story that the entire family can enjoy this season. The Netflix original features a talented cast including Forest Whitaker, Keegan-Michael Key, and newcomer Madalen Mills, as well as songs by John Legend and record producer Philip Lawrence, that’ll certainly get stuck in your head. It’s a modern musical with the feeling of a holly jolly classic–think The Greatest Showman meets The Muppet Christmas Carol. And it’s sure to become a classic itself from here on out.
Holidate (2020) | Netflix
What happens when two strangers agree to become each other’s platonic dates for holiday events? Adorable hijinks and a blossoming romance, of course! Starring Emma Roberts and Luke Bracey, Holidate is a Netflix original romantic-comedy, which is surprisingly enjoyable and reminiscent of beloved noughties “chick flicks” - the good and the bad. While I’m not typically drawn to this genre of film, I couldn’t help but find joy in its preposterous situations and supporting cast's comedic charms.
Just Friends (2005) | rental
I find this film to be a completely underrated gem from the 2000s. Ryan Reynolds and Anna Faris deliver in this otherwise mediocre rom-com, really allowing their comedic chops to shine. Reynolds plays a bitter ex-nerd wanting revenge on his former bestie after being friend-zoned throughout high school, while Faris tags along as his deranged pop star client. Sure it’s totally predictable and utterly wacky the whole way through, but that’s what’s so great about it. There are so many memorable lines and iconic moments that it’s simply become a classic to me when I am considering what to stream.
Sound of Metal (2020) | Amazon Prime Video
While not a holiday film, Sound of Metal is a must-watch this month - as it’s one of the best films of the year. It follows Ruben (Riz Ahmed), a heavy metal drummer who begins to lose his hearing. It’s an emotional story that’s backed by an incredible cast, with an enthralling performance by Ahmed - perhaps a defining moment of his career. But even more, it’s a transformative experience for you as an audience member with stunning sound design. And its inclusive storytelling is something to marvel at.
There are also some major studio films to get ready for, coming later this month. On Christmas Day, catch Disney and Pixar’s Soul on Disney+, as well as Wonder Woman 1984 dropping on HBO Max, the same day it hits theaters. So no matter what type of genre you’re into, whether or not you want to solely view holiday films, the month of December has a lot to offer when you're looking for what to stream.
Hi! I am Jordy Sirkin, I love all things to do with film and movies! My main goal, though, is to get people excited about filmmaking in general, check out movies they might not otherwise, and form a discussion. So grab some popcorn and let’s watch some movies! Check out Jordy's site at: https://jordyreviewsit.com/
*The reviews and opinions in this article are Jordy's take and have no paid sponsorship or connection to the movies or the production houses involved.*
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