7 Christmas Movie Endings Ranked by How Hard They Still Hit

Ah, Christmas movies. They’re the heartwarming, feel-good flicks that make us laugh, cry, and occasionally question our sanity when we find ourselves watching the same one for the hundredth time. But let’s be real: while we love the joy and cheer they bring, it’s those endings that really pack a punch. Some leave us in a puddle of happy tears, while others hit us with a nostalgia that lingers long after the credits roll. So, grab your hot cocoa, get cozy, and let’s rank seven Christmas movie endings by how hard they still hit. Spoiler alert: there might be some tear-jerkers here!

1. Love Actually

Okay, we’ve got to start with “Love Actually.” It’s a classic, and while it has its fair share of heartwarming moments, the ending is a mixed bag. Sure, watching all those love stories intertwine is lovely, but the sheer amount of storylines can make your head spin. Still, when Hugh Grant shows up at the airport to declare his love, it’s sweet enough to get a smile, if not a full-on sob. It’s a feel-good ending, but it doesn’t quite leave you with that deep yearning, you know?

2. The Nightmare Before Christmas

Photo by Elin Melaas

Now, let’s talk about “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” This movie is a delight, blending Halloween and Christmas in a way that only Tim Burton could pull off. Jack Skellington’s realization about the true meaning of Christmas is a nice moment, but it’s more whimsical than gut-wrenching. The ending, with Jack embracing the holiday spirit and Sally’s heartfelt song, is enchanting, but it leaves you feeling more joyful than emotionally wrecked. It’s a fun ride, but the emotional stakes aren’t quite as high as some others on this list.

3. The Polar Express

Ah, “The Polar Express.” This one’s a bit of a mixed bag, too. The animation can be a little uncanny, but the story’s magic pulls you in. The ending, where the boy finally hears the bell ring, is a sweet reminder of belief and childhood wonder. It tugs at the heartstrings just enough to make you nostalgic for those innocent days when you believed in Santa. It’s a solid ending, though it might not have you crying into your popcorn. Still, it hits hard enough to make you reflect on what the holidays mean to you.

4. It’s a Wonderful Life

You knew this one was coming! “It’s a Wonderful Life” is the OG of tearjerkers. George Bailey’s journey through despair and redemption is a rollercoaster of emotions, and by the time you reach the end, you’re practically a puddle. The moment when he realizes how many lives he’s touched is nothing short of magical. The pure joy of family and community is beautifully highlighted, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t ugly cry when the whole town comes together to support him? It’s a classic for a reason, and it still hits you in the feels like a ton of bricks.

5. Miracle on 34th Street

“Miracle on 34th Street” nails the holiday spirit with its charming narrative about believing in the impossible. The ending, where Kris Kringle proves he’s the real Santa Claus, is a heartwarming moment that resonates with anyone who’s ever doubted the magic of Christmas. It’s a feel-good ending that makes you want to hug your loved ones a little tighter. The emotional impact of belief and hope is palpable, and you can’t help but feel that warm glow as the credits roll. It’s one of those endings that reminds you to keep the magic alive, no matter your age.

6. A Charlie Brown Christmas

If you haven’t shed a tear during “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” are you even human? The ending, where Charlie Brown discovers the true meaning of Christmas amidst all the commercialism, is incredibly poignant. His struggle to find meaning in a world that seems too focused on material gifts hits home for many of us. When Linus recites the biblical passage about the birth of Jesus, it’s a moment that transcends age and time. It’s the kind of ending that leaves you reflecting on your own beliefs and what Christmas really means to you, making it a powerful experience every single time.

7. The Muppet Christmas Carol

And here we are at the top: “The Muppet Christmas Carol.” This film beautifully blends humor and heart, staying true to Dickens’ classic story while adding that signature Muppet charm. With heartfelt performances, memorable music, and just the right touch of silliness, it captures the true spirit of Christmas—reminding us about kindness, redemption, and the power of joy.

Vinyl and Velvet