‘Tis the time of year when animated discussions arise regarding the ultimate Christmas film. While many are familiar with the popular holiday movies airing nonstop on television, such as “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “Home Alone,” or “Love, Actually,” as well as other seasonal favorites like “Eyes Wide Shut” and “The Godfather,” some might be in search of films that stray from the conventional list. If you’re tired of the usual contenders like “A Christmas Story” or “White Christmas,” here is a fresh selection of Christmas films for varying moods that may inspire your viewing.

To kick off, if you’re in the mood for a film that captures the essence of Christmas without being an actual holiday movie, consider “The Grand Budapest Hotel.” Despite being set against a backdrop of snow and featuring no direct Christmas themes, this 2014 Wes Anderson film mirrors the experience of unwrapping a present, revealing its intricate storytelling and design. (Available for digital rental)

If you’re seeking elegance, “Metropolitan,” released in 1990, is the ideal choice. This film from Whit Stillman offers glamourous views of New York City’s debutante season without the need for formal attire. Following the lives of well-off youths on the Upper East Side, it provides a delightful escape into sophistication. (Streaming on Criterion, MAX, Hulu, and Prime Video)

For a touching holiday film, “A Muppets Christmas Carol” from 1992 features Michael Caine delivering a remarkable performance as Ebenezer Scrooge among puppet characters. The combination of Dickens’ classic tale with Muppet charm creates a unique holiday spectacle. (Streaming on Disney+)

If you feel like shedding a tear this holiday season, Jacques Demy’s “The Umbrellas of Cherbourg,” a 1964 musical, offers a heart-wrenching moment set in a snowy gas station. With its vibrant colors and moving score, this film perfectly encapsulates the emotional tone of the holidays. (Streaming on The Criterion Channel)

For a modern twist on Christmas tales, “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang,” a 2005 neo-noir comedy, provides a unique perspective on the holiday season. Featuring Robert Downey Jr. as a thief turned actor in Los Angeles, it portrays a very unconventional Christmas milieu, blending humor and darker elements. (Available for digital rental)

Another whimsical film for a holiday romance is “The Holiday,” released in 2006. Although the charming English cottage might only exist in fiction, the approach to love and warmth makes this Nancy Meyers production an endearing choice. It balances genuine affection with elements of classic romantic storytelling. (Streaming on Hulu and Prime Video)

If you’re in the mood for a gripping Christmas-centric thriller, “Three Days of the Condor” from 1975 is a notable option. Robert Redford and Faye Dunaway bring life to this spy thriller that cleverly weaves Christmas themes into a narrative questioning societal togetherness in the post-Watergate era. (Streaming on Paramount+)

For children, “Klaus,” the animated Netflix film from 2019 about the origins of Santa Claus through the eyes of a desperate postman, presents a charming tale that reinvents classic holiday folklore. (Streaming on Netflix)

For youngsters under five, “Shaun the Sheep: The Flight Before Christmas,” lasting only 30 minutes, is an excellent pick. It delivers a delightful, safe, and fun adventure without any scary elements, ideal for little ones. (Streaming on Netflix)

As for films that capture a broader holiday spirit, “Nobody’s Fool,” a 1994 adaptation starring Paul Newman, covers the season from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve, creating a rich tapestry of small-town life and human connection. It features strong performances and conveys deep warmth, transcending its holiday setting. (Streaming on Kanopy, available for digital rental)

For a display of mid-century charm and emotional complexity, “Carol,” released in 2015, tells a poignant story of romance and heartbreak with stylish settings and lush storytelling. Its nostalgic aesthetic and emotional depth make it a compelling choice for Christmas viewing. (Streaming on Netflix, Paramount+, and MUBI)

The ultimate classic in holiday film is undoubtedly “Christmas in Connecticut,” a delightful screwball comedy from 1945 featuring Barbara Stanwyck. The film’s comedic premise revolves around a columnist maintaining a false family persona, showcasing the idea that the perfect Christmas is often a façade. (Streaming on WatchTCM)

For those who appreciate 19th-century storytelling infused with holiday warmth, “Little Women,” whether the 1994 or the 2019 version, offers an embodiment of Christmas spirit through familial bonds and timeless themes, paired with captivating performances. (1994 version available for digital rental; 2019 streaming on Hulu)

Lastly, a strong contender for the ultimate Christmas film is “The Shop Around the Corner,” a 1940 classic that intertwines romance with moments of profound emotional depth. Its charm and timeless narrative continue to resonate, making it a delightful holiday classic. (Streaming on WatchTCM and Max)

Lastly, while it may seem predictable, “Miracle on 34th Street,” a beloved film from 1947, stands the test of time, showcasing modern themes of hope and miracles against a bustling New York City backdrop during the holiday season, ensuring that the spirit of Christmas endures. (Streaming on Disney+, Hulu, and Prime Video)