Now that December is well and truly in full swing, the Christmas decorations are out on show, wreaths are hanging from every door and everyone is getting into the festive spirit. However, no lead up to Christmas is complete without at least a couple of festive films. This year, if you’re wanting a change from Love Actually and Home Alone, why don’t you mix it up and watch some other Christmas movies and series from around the world. Not only will they provide great practice for your language skills, but also provide plenty of great entertainment in the days ahead… so what are you waiting for? Check out our top picks to get you in the mood for Christmas!
Un Conte De Noël (French)
Kicking it off, Un Conte De Noël (A Christmas Tale) is a classic French Christmas film about the slightly bizarre and dysfunctional Vuillard family who are no stranger to a bit of drama. After years of arguments and not speaking, they all finally come back together at Christmas when their mother requires an urgent bone-marrow transplant. This witty film will have you laughing out loud and it’ll be great practice for your French too!
Vacanze di Natale a Cortina (Italian)
This comedy film is a feel-good watch with plenty of snow, glamour and après-ski thrown in! Vacanze di Natale a Cortina follows three interwoven stories of people spending Christmas in the Italian resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo. From unfaithful lovers to lottery winners, there are all sorts of characters to be found in Cortina this Christmas!
Días De Navidad (Spanish)
Días De Navidad is an excellent 3-part mini series that follows the Christmas celebrations of four sisters at key stages in their lives, from teenagers to grandparents. While it is a bit of a slow burner to begin with, you won’t be disappointed by the heart-wrenching season finale and the build-up of suspense throughout. During this emotional roller-coaster, secrets are unearthed, arguments arise and the family dynamics are put to the test… so there is no such thing as a quiet Christmas in this household!
If you’re looking for a Christmassy series to watch, then look no further than ÜberWeihnachten. This German series tells the tale of Bastian, an aspiring musician living in Berlin who is down on his luck and returns to his hometown for Christmas. The show has all the festive favourites – snowy trees and decorations, carols, family dinners and perhaps best of all, a hilarious Granny! With tons of great laugh-out-loud scenes, Over Christmas is a must-watch so why not give it a go!
Tudo Bem No Natal Que Vem (Portuguese)
Imagine getting stuck in a time loop where every time you wake up it’s Christmas… sounds like the dream right? Well, not for Jorge that is, as his worst nightmare becomes a reality. Although Tudo Bem No Natal Que Vem is definitely a slightly weird and goofy film, it will undoubtedly crack you right up and will instantly become a Christmas classic.
東京ゴッドファーザーズ Tokyo Godfathers (Japanese)
When three homeless people find a baby hidden among rubbish on Christmas Eve, their lives take an unexpected turn. As they set off to find the baby’s parents the plot thickens, and many different characters become a part of a multi-layered story. Tokyo Godfathers is something of an emotional roller-coaster and offers an alternative to the traditional Christmas movie.
De Familie Claus (Flemish)
A heartfelt Dutch-Belgian film, De Familie Claus is a must for fans of magical Christmas movies. After losing his father the previous Christmas, young Jules Claus is not a fan of the festive season as it brings back painful memories. However his life changes forever when he discovers that his grandfather is in fact Santa Claus, and that he is next in line to take on the role! We love this film, and what’s even better is that a sequel has just been released – perfect for a feel-good festive binge!
Dawid i Elfy (Polish)
Young David is upset because his parents have moved to a big city. At the same time, Albert the Elf has become disillusioned with his world and decides to run off. When the two meet, their lives collide and through their new friendship and an exciting journey they rediscover the magic of Christmas. Dawid i Elfy is a really sweet film, perfect for this time of year!
Hjem til jul (Norwegian)
After the constant comments from her perfect family on her single life, Johanne finally cracks under the pressure as she tells a lie and says she has a boyfriend. With only has 24 days to find one, Johanne tackles her love woes, but does she manage to find someone in time for Christmas? Hjem til jul is a funny, light-hearted Norwegian rom-com that you will binge through in no time.
There you have it… our favourite international Christmas films and series that you simply must watch this December. Get your mince pies ready, put your Christmas jumpers on and make sure to squeeze in at least a couple of these crackers before Christmas!
With 2022 coming to an end, find out about our next online or face-to-face foreign language courses in January here to start 2023 on a high!