Every holiday season, a lively debate flickers to life like twinkling string lights: Are action films set against the backdrop of Christmas just as much Christmas movies as the warm, nostalgic tales of family gatherings and festive miracles? From the skyscraper siege of Die Hard to the explosive crime-solving of Lethal Weapon, and even the mischievous antics of Gremlins, these films have turned snow-covered streets and twinkling holiday lights into the backdrop for unforgettable action.
For a growing cadre of fans, these adrenaline-fueled thrillers are as essential to the season as eggnog and ugly sweaters—proof that sometimes, holiday spirit comes with a bang. Here’s a shortlist of Christmas-themed action films to get you started.
Jurassic World (2015)
At the heart of Jurassic World are Claire Dearing (Bryce Dallas Howard), the park’s ambitious operations manager, and Owen Grady (Chris Pratt), a rugged raptor trainer, who must put their differences aside to protect Claire’s nephews (Zach and Grey) and countless others when a genetically engineered dinosaur escapes. The chaos that ensues contrasts holiday themes of family, redemption, and thrilling survival stakes. You even hear Tony Bennett’s “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” when Zach and Grey’s parents say goodbye to them at the airport at the start of the film.
Iron Man 3 (2013)
Iron Man 3 follows Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr) as he grapples with the aftermath of the events in The Avengers while facing a new threat in the form of the mysterious Mandarin. Director Shane Black, known for holiday settings, gives Iron Man 3 a festive backdrop, unfolding in the lead-up to Christmas. The film blends action with heart, as Tony Stark’s growing bond with Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow) and a message of generosity and selflessness add warmth to the story, showing that even a hardened hero can be touched by the season.
RED (2010)
In RED, the holiday season provides a surprisingly fitting backdrop for a story about retired CIA operatives pulled back into the world of espionage. Frank Moses (Bruce Willis), a former black-ops agent, reunites with his old team—played by Helen Mirren, Morgan Freeman, and John Malkovich—when they are targeted by a conspiracy. Amidst high-octane action and witty banter, holiday decorations, a Christmas party, and festive settings amplify the themes of camaraderie, resilience, and rekindled purpose, giving the film a light-hearted yet action-packed seasonal flair.
Bourne Identity (2002)
The Bourne Identity follows Jason Bourne (Matt Damon), an amnesiac spy piecing together his identity while evading relentless pursuers. The film finds subtle ways to nod to the season through its wintry European settings and one tiny giveaway: the farmhouse in the French countryside where Jason spends the night is decorated for Christmas. Though its festive elements are understated, the themes of self-discovery, redemption, and forging new connections—particularly through Bourne’s growing bond with Marie—resonate with the spirit of Christmas.
Batman Returns (1992)
In Batman Returns, Gotham City serves as a snow-dusted backdrop for a Christmas tale set just weeks before the holidays, culminating on Christmas Eve. The film follows Batman (Michael Keaton) as he faces off against the menacing Penguin (Danny Devito) and the enigmatic Catwoman (Michelle Pfeiffer), when the duo infiltrate a Christmas-tree lighting and kidnap a beauty queen dubbed the Ice Princess. Themes of isolation, redemption, and longing for connection weave through the narrative, echoing the emotional undercurrents of the season.
Die Hard (1988)
The classic Die Hard follows New York cop John McClane (Bruce Willis) as he visits Los Angeles to reconcile with his estranged wife during her office Christmas party, only to find himself battling a group of highly organised thieves who take the building hostage. Set amidst festive decorations, holiday cheer, and a soundtrack peppered with Christmas classics, the film weaves themes of family, hope, and redemption into its high-stakes action. Its snowy final act and the climactic use of “Let It Snow” seal its status as an unconventional yet quintessential Christmas movie.
Lethal Weapon (1987)
Lethal Weapon introduces Martin Riggs (Mel Gibson), a volatile LAPD detective struggling with grief, partnered with the steady and family-oriented Roger Murtaugh (Danny Glover) during the holiday season. The plot unfolds against a backdrop of Christmas lights, festive music, and family gatherings, contrasting its gritty action with moments of holiday warmth. With themes of redemption, newfound friendship, and the importance of human connection, Lethal Weapon subtly incorporates the spirit of Christmas into its explosive, adrenaline-fuelled narrative.
Gremlins (1984)
Gremlins begins with an unusual Christmas gift: a cuddly ‘mogwai’ creature called Gizmo that comes with strict care instructions. When someone accidentally breaks the rules, five more mogwais are spawned – only they’re more like mini monsters, or gremlins. Chaos ensues as mischievous gremlins wreak havoc on a snow-covered small town during the festive season. Set against twinkling lights, carolers, and seasonal cheer, the film combines dark humour, heart, and holiday motifs to deliver a quirky yet cautionary tale.
In the end, these action-packed films prove that Christmas isn’t just for heartfelt rom-coms and family-friendly comedies (if you prefer those, we’ve got you covered here). Whether set in snow-covered cities or against the backdrop of Christmas trees, these films bring a unique blend of festive spirit and thrilling action, proving that Christmas is for everyone, even the most unlikely of heroes.
