top 13 christmas action movies ranked for holiday viewing

Ed Bradley

3 min read

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17-11-2024

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The holidays aren't just for cozy nights by the fireplace. For those who prefer a little adrenaline with their eggnog, we've compiled a ranked list of the top 13 Christmas action movies guaranteed to inject some festive firepower into your holiday season. This list balances critical acclaim, audience enjoyment, and the crucial element: a significant Christmas setting or theme.

The Criteria: Festive Fury and Action-Packed Fun

Our ranking considers several key factors: the quality of the action sequences, the integration of the Christmas setting into the narrative, the overall entertainment value, and the film's lasting impact on the Christmas action genre. This isn't just about explosions; it's about how seamlessly the holiday spirit (or its chaotic antithesis) blends with the high-octane thrills.

The Top 13: A Countdown to Christmas Chaos

(Note: Rankings are subjective and reflect a blend of critical reception and popular appeal.)

13. Die Hard 2 (1990): While not as critically lauded as its predecessor, Die Hard 2 delivers a solid dose of Christmas action with John McClane thwarting another terrorist plot, this time at Washington Dulles International Airport. The snowy setting and holiday backdrop remain a key component of the film's identity.

14. Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005): This neo-noir Christmas caper blends witty dialogue, compelling characters, and surprising action sequences into a darkly comedic holiday treat. While the Christmas elements are subtle, they're integral to the film's overall tone and atmosphere.

15. Lethal Weapon (1987): Though not strictly a "Christmas movie," Lethal Weapon is inextricably linked to the holiday season through its iconic Christmas Eve setting and the melancholic undercurrent of Riggs's character. The explosive action perfectly complements the film's festive backdrop.

16. Home Alone (1990): While primarily a family comedy, Home Alone features some surprisingly inventive (and hilarious) action sequences orchestrated by Kevin McCallister against the Wet Bandits. The sheer ingenuity of the traps adds an element of surprising action to the classic holiday film.

17. The Long Kiss Goodnight (1996): This action thriller features Geena Davis as a seemingly ordinary woman whose amnesia hides a deadly past. The action is brutal and the Christmas setting provides a stark contrast to the violence unfolding.

18. Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020): This musical adventure film delivers fantastic visual effects, charming characters, and creative action sequences, all set against the magical backdrop of a Christmas town.

19. Jack Frost (1998): This dark Christmas comedy features a criminal who transforms into a snowman, bringing a unique flavor to the holiday action genre. While unconventional, the concept is undeniably entertaining.

20. Christmas with the Kranks (2004): While light on traditional action sequences, this comedic film features a surprising amount of physical comedy and chaotic energy, creating a unique brand of holiday-themed action.

21. Silent Night, Deadly Night (1984): A controversial entry, Silent Night, Deadly Night is a slasher film set during Christmas, delivering a chilling counterpoint to the usual holiday cheer. Be warned: This one is not for the faint of heart.

22. Gremlins (1984): This classic Christmas horror-comedy features a healthy dose of mayhem, as mischievous creatures wreak havoc on a small town during the holidays. While not strictly action-driven, the chaos and destruction provide a unique type of festive mayhem.

23. Die Hard (1988): A quintessential Christmas action film, Die Hard sets the standard for the genre with its intense action, memorable characters, and iconic setting within Nakatomi Plaza on Christmas Eve.

24. Bad Moms Christmas (2017): This raunchy comedy features a wild Christmas party that delivers plenty of humorous chaos and relatable holiday antics. While the action is more comedic than violent, the energy and unpredictability warrant its high placement.

25. Batman Returns (1992): Tim Burton's darkly comedic take on Batman features iconic villains and a unique blend of Christmas atmosphere and superhero action. The visual spectacle and action sequences elevate it to the top of our list.

This list isn't exhaustive, and many other excellent Christmas action movies deserve recognition. However, these 13 offer a diverse range of styles, tones, and levels of holiday cheer, ensuring something for every action-loving holiday viewer. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and enjoy a truly explosive Christmas season!