There's nothing better in the days leading up to Christmas than lighting a bonfire, preparing some festive snacks and watching a great Christmas film. While there are hundreds of incredible classics to choose from, there's something special about a Christmas romance that perfectly captures the holiday spirit as you watch a couple fall in love – usually with a little help from mistletoe.
Fortunately, the last few years have brought a revival of the holiday romantic comedy. From the steady supply Hallmark drops every year to Netflix stepping up its Christmas movie game in a big way with the NCU (Netflix Christmas Universe), there's no shortage of romantic movies to enjoy. Whether you're in the mood to revisit a favorite you know by heart or press play for something new, The best Christmas couples will make your holiday season merry and bright.
15
Avery and Logan (Our Little Secret)
Lindsay Lohan and Ian Harding
If there's anything to be thankful for this Christmas, it's Lindsay Lohan's continued comeback. After his first two festive films Irish want oneand Falling for Christmas became big hits on the streaming service, Lohan is back in another Netflix Christmas romantic comedy, Our little secret. She is surrounded by a who's who of great comedic talent, including the scene-stealing Kristen Chenosworth. However, the reason the film works so well is the believable tension and, of course, the chemistry between Lindsay and her co-star Ian Harding.
The setup is classic screwball comedy: Lohan's character Avery goes home with her boyfriend to spend the holidays with his family, only to discover that her ex (played by Ian Harding) is now dating her boyfriend's brother. As the title suggests, the two former lovebirds decide to keep their romantic history a secret.
Although the film is full of hilarious tension and hijinks as they cover up, the real magic lies in the protagonists' natural relationship. Ian Harding is the perfect match for Lohan's sharp wit. From the beginning it is clear that they are a much better match than their current partners, making it impossible not to root for them.
Our little secret
Our Little Secret is a holiday drama in which two resentful exes spend Christmas together after discovering that their current partners are brothers. The film explores themes of reconciliation and the complexities of family dynamics during the festive season.
- Release date
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November 27, 2024
- Execution time
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99 minutes
- Cast
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Lindsay Lohan, Kristin Chenoweth, Ian Harding, Jon Rudnitsky, Chris Parnell, Tim Meadows, Dan Bucatinsky, Henry Czerny, Katie Baker, Ash Santos, Jake Brennan, Brian Unger
- Director
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Stephen Herek
14
Sloane and Jackson (Holidate)
Emma Roberts and Luke Bracey
For some, there's nothing worse than being single during the holidays — mostly due to the awkward questions from family and friends about your love life or the inevitable awkward setups. The romantic comedy of 2020 Holiday takes this very relatable premise and presents a solution. What if you can find one person to be your “holiday” – a platonic plus one for all your holiday events? It's a clever holiday romantic comedy concept, and thankfully, the film has the perfect couple at its center.
Emma Robert plays Sloane, a woman tired of love and her family's constant judgment. She meets Luke Bracey's Jackson, an endearing, newly single Australian, during a casual encounter, and the two quickly bond over their shared frustrations about dating and awkward family get-togethers during the holiday.
Soon the two spend New Year's Eve together during each other's holidays… with many more to come throughout the year (with the 4th of July being particularly memorable), until the inevitable Christmas get-together. Roberts is a better cynic than anyone, while Bracey's natural charm makes every scene better. However, what resonates is the heart of the film and the couple's desire to help each other face their flaws.
Holiday
Holidate is a Netflix original romantic comedy starring Emma Roberts and Luke Bracey. Roberts and Bracey play Sloane and Jackson, two single adults who agree to be each other's platonic plus-ones for all the biggest holidays of the year. But things get complicated when they actually start to have feelings for each other.
- Release date
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October 27, 2020
- Execution time
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104 minutes
- Cast
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Emma Roberts, Frances Fisher, Kristin Chenoweth, Andrew Bachelor, Luke Bracey, Jessica Capshaw
- Director
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John Whitesell
13
Jack and Sally (The Nightmare Before Christmas)
Chris Sarandon (voice) and Catherine O'Hara (voice)
Although there is endless debate about whether The Nightmare Before Christmas Whether it's a Christmas movie or a Halloween movie, there's no argument that Jack Skellington, the “Pumpkin King” of Halloween Town, is a perfect match for rag doll Sally. While their romance isn't the main focus of Tim Burton and Henry Selick's visual masterpiece, it serves as the film's beating heart.
Throughout the film, amidst the chaos of Jack's attempt to take control of Christmas, we continually see the shy and reserved Sally silently admiring him from afar. On the surface, the two seem complete opposites – Jack is impulsive and craves the spotlight, while Sally is thoughtful and wise.
It's the classic case of opposites attract tropes, but what really makes us root for them is Sally's ability to see Jack for who he really is: a dreamer searching for meaning in his life. Although it takes Jack most of the film to realize that what he's been missing has been right in front of him the whole time, the moment he finally understands is as magical and touching as any holiday romance.
Henry Selick directs The Nightmare Before Christmas, a stop-motion fairy tale from the mind of Tim Burton. Jack Skellington is the king of Halloween and one of Halloweentown's most beloved citizens, but he longs for something more. When he comes across a magical door that leads him to discover Christmas, he makes it his mission to replace Santa Claus and bring festive cheer to his always-spooky village.
- Release date
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October 29, 1993
- Execution time
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76 minutes
- Cast
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Catherine O'Hara, Glenn Shadix, Ken Page, William Hickey, Chris Sarandon, Paul Reubens, Danny Elfman
- Director
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Henry Selick
12
Harper and Abby (Happiest Season)
Kristen Stewart and McKenzie Davis
Families are always complicated, but Somehow Christmas makes dysfunctional families even more complicated. This theme is at the heart of the hilarious film Happiest season, one of the few mainstream holiday films to have an LGBTQ+ couple at its center. Clea DuVall's heartfelt comedy has all the features you want in a Christmas romantic comedy, but what sets the film apart is the delightful pairing of Kristen Steward and Mackenzie Davis.
It's refreshing for her to really bring out the comedic side of a romantic comedy more than in almost any film on this list.
Abby and Harper have been dating for a year, when Harper spontaneously invites Abby to spend Christmas with her parents. There's just one problem: Harper hasn't come out to her conservative parents, which means Abby has to pretend to be her roommate. Although outspoken and unapologetic, Abby may not seem like an ideal match for the more reserved Harper, the two share sizzling chemistry and deep love for each other.
Although the film creates a lot of tension and awkwardness due to the confusion of keeping their relationship a secret, it's the understanding and mutual respect the two have for each other that really sells the relationship and makes the audience root for them. Kristen Stewart has always had a knack for comedy, but she rarely gets to show it. So it's refreshing for her to really bring out the comedic side of a romantic comedy, more so than in almost any film on this list.
Happiest Season
Directed by Clea DuVall, Happiest Season follows Abby Holland and Harper Caldwell, a New York City lesbian couple whose relationship is tested when they spend Christmas with Harper's family. Afraid to come out to her conservative parents, Harper forces Abby back into the closet for the visit, leading to hilarious and disastrous consequences. The film features an ensemble cast that includes Kristen Stewart, Mackenzie Davis, Dan Levy, Alison Brie, Victor Garber, Mary Steenburgen and Aubrey Plaza.
- Release date
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November 26, 2020
- Execution time
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102 minutes
- Director
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Clea DuVall
11
Sierra Belmont and Jake Russell (In Love with Christmas)
Lindsay Lohan and Chord Overstreet
The first of Lindsay Lohan's Netflix Christmas films, Falling on Christmas, takes the classic romantic comedy themes of discovering what really matters in life and the importance of family over wealth, but with a touch of amnesia and two gorgeous leads to create its winning formula. Lohan is perfectly cast as the vapid socialite who loses her memory in a hilarious skiing accident, and Chord Overstreet manages to show a softer, more charming side than in Happiness.
There's nothing you haven't seen before, but that's the whole point. Nothing represents the romance of Christmas better than comfort and familiarity. It's great to see Lohan being funny again, and she doesn't miss a beat playing the spoiled Sierra. But it's her natural relationship with Overstreet where she really shines.. The film gets a lot of laughs from Sierra and Jake's “opposites attract” chemistry, but once the film leans into romance, and you get to see the two really connect and care for each other, the film is truly worth it. worth watching.
Falling For Christmas is a holiday-themed romantic comedy film starring Lindsay Lohan as Sierra Belmont, a spoiled heiress, and Chord Overstreet as Jake, a kind-hearted janitor. When Sierra goes on vacation to a lodge and has a skiing accident, she somehow suffers from selective amnesia. She cannot remember her name or origin, but her personality remains intact. Despite this, the inn's caretaker, Jake, does his best to look after her as the two begin to fall in love while she tries to regain her memories.
- Release date
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November 10, 2022
- Execution time
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93 minutes
- Cast
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Lindsay Lohan, Chord Overstreet, George Young, Jack Wagner, Olivia Perez, Alejandra Flores
- Director
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Janeen Damian
10
Alfred Kralik and Klara Novak (The Corner Store)
Jimmy Stewart and Klara Novak
Another classic novel about miscommunication and opposites attracting, Ernst Lubitsch's charming romantic comedy is best watched with a cup of hot chocolate, a warm blanket, and a cozy fireplace. It's a comfortable film that will make you wish for a simpler time, before technology took over the world. The film served as inspiration for Nora Ephron's comedy You received mail, stars Tom Hank and Meg Ryan, but give me Stewart's caring Alfred and Novak's feisty Klara any day.
The film follows two employees of a small store in Budapest who despise each other, but in a twist of fate, they secretly send letters to each other through a mail service. It's through these letters that we really see these two opening up and sharing their vulnerabilities, as their affection for each other grows.
The contrast between these emotional scenes and their caustic relationship in the store is part of the film's charm and joy. Set during the lead-up to the holidays, the film reflects Alfred and Klara's relationship as we anxiously wait for them to discover the truth and embrace.
The Shop Around the Corner, directed by Ernst Lubitsch, follows the lives of two gift shop employees in Budapest who unknowingly become pen pals and fall in love through anonymous letters. Starring James Stewart and Margaret Sullavan, this 1940 romantic comedy offers a charming exploration of mistaken identities and blossoming affection set against the backdrop of elegantly rendered pre-war Budapest.
- Release date
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January 12, 1940
- Execution time
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99 minutes
- Cast
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Margaret Sullavan, James Stewart, Frank Morgan, Joseph Schildkraut, Sara Haden, Felix Bressart, William Tracy, Inez Courtney
- Director
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Ernest Lubitsch
9
Peter and Nick (single until the end)
Michael Urie and Philemon Chambers
This Charming 2021 Netflix Movie Hits All on Your Christmas Movie Bingo Card: Anxiety about being single during the holidays, having someone impersonate your partner, best friends who slowly realize they are meant to be together, a blind date from your family that surprisingly goes well, a punny title inspired by Christmas classics, and, of course, a supporting cast made up of hilarious comedic talent (this time with Jennifer Coolidge). But most importantly, it has a central romance that you will absolutely root for.
The incredible Michael Urie, who has consistently elevated every TV cast he's been a part of over the past two decades, plays the eternally single Peter, while the charming Philemon Chambers is Nick, Peter's best friend and roommate. Over the course of the vacation – and lots of mischief – the two finally realize their true feelings for each other. The film works so well because the leads are cast perfectly. Their natural chemistry and genuine affection shine through thanks to the fantastic performances from both actors.
Single until the end
Single All The Way is a 2021 romantic comedy film directed by Michael Mayer. The film revolves around Peter (Michael Urie), who convinces his best friend Nick (Philemon Chambers) to accompany him home for the holidays to avoid his family's judgment for being single. The plot evolves as family dynamics and personal relationships come into play, highlighting themes of love and acceptance.
- Release date
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December 2, 2021
- Execution time
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99 minutes
- Cast
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Michael Urie, Philemon Chambers, Luke Macfarlane, Jennifer Coolidge, Kathy Najimy
- Director
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Michael Mayer
8
Stacy and Edward (The Switch Princess)
Vanessa Hudgens and Sam Palladio
One of Netflix's first Christmas movies, 2016 The princess changes, remains one of the best, thanks to its lead couple, Stacy De Novo and Prince Edward of Belgravia. It's no surprise that this charming approach Parent Trap switcheroo style has spawned a franchise — because there's nothing better to watch during the holiday than an ordinary girl falling in love with royalty.
Vanessa Hudgens is charming playing the dual roles of Stacy De Novo and Lady Margaret Delacourt, who switch places when they realize how similar they are. Stacy initially comes to Belgravia for a baking competition, but before she knows it, she is swept off her feet by a literal prince.
Even better, this film offers two romances, while Lady Margaret develops feelings for Stacy's best friend Kevin. But it's Stacy and Edward's sweeping romance that keeps viewers coming back every holiday season. Edward falls in love with Stacy's spontaneity as she helps him come out of his shell, making their love story both moving and irresistible.
The Princess Switch is a 2018 romantic comedy film directed by Mike Rohl. The film stars Vanessa Hudgens in a dual role as a Chicago baker and a duchess from the fictional kingdom of Belgravia who switch places. The narrative explores the ensuing adventures and romance that unfold due to her move.
- Release date
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November 16, 2018
- Execution time
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102 minutes
- Director
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Mike Rohl
7
Iris and Miles (The Holiday)
Kate Winslet and Jack Black
Jack Black as a romantic lead isn't something that immediately comes to mind when you're in the mood for a Christmas romance, but leave it to the queen of the elegant romantic comedy, Nancy Meyers, to deliver something delightfully unexpected. The holiday has been a mainstay of holiday viewing for nearly twenty years, largely due to its irresistible cast of movie stars, but Nancy Meyers' unique production design doesn't hurt either.
In the film, British journalist Iris, played by Kate Winslet, is recovering from a breakup, so she does what any woman would do in those circumstances – she switches houses with a woman in Los Angeles, Cameron Diaz's Amanda, to have a Sunny Christmas. There, she meets Miles, Jack Black's quirky composer, and soon the two are sensing classic movies and sadness, which eventually blossom into the sweetest romance.
Kate Winslet is one of the best professional actresses today, but she is It's still surprising how easy she makes her romance with Jack Black seem. He's equally good at bringing great emotion and vulnerability to the role, making them one of the best couples to share your vacation with.
The holiday
The Holiday is a 2006 romantic comedy starring Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law and Jack Black. Directed and written by Nancy Meyers, The Holiday tells the story of two women who swap homes to take a break from the stress of their recent breakups. But things change when they both fall in love with local men.
- Release date
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December 14, 2006
- Execution time
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138 minutes
- Director
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Nancy Meyers
6
Bridget and Mark (Bridget Jones's Diary)
Renée Zellweger and Colin Firth
There's just something about Bridget Jones Diary which perfectly captures the spirit of the holiday season. Although the film is set throughout the year, it is undoubtedly a Christmas film. The cinema channels all the feelings of insecurity, self-improvement and longing for love that many people experience during Christmasbut he does it with humor and sentimentality.
Renée Zellweger plays Bridget one of the most credible heroines to ever grace the screen. As she spends the year trying to create the best version of herself, her sense of humor and vulnerability make audiences fall in love with her. But at its core, the film is still an incredible romance and features one of the best couples of all time.
Bridget spends the film navigating her feelings about the eccentric Daniel (Hugh Grant) and the uptight but irresistible Mark Darcy (Colin Firth). By the time the film reaches Christmas time, Bridget's journey of self-acceptance is almost complete, leading her into the arms of her true love, culminating in one of the best kisses ever on screen.
Based on the novel by Helen Fielding, the romantic comedy Bridget Jones's Diary revolves around a 32-year-old single woman who keeps a diary of her life and romantic encounters. Starring Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth and Hugh Grant, the 2001 film was a huge critical and commercial success.
- Release date
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April 13, 2001
- Execution time
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97 minutes
- Director
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Sharon Maguire
5
Kate and Jack Snowman (Icy Hot)
Lacey Chabert and Dustin Milligan
Who knew the world needed a movie about a widow who falls in love with the snowman she brought to life? But that's exactly what Netflix delivered with 2024 Hot coldone ridiculous but incredibly sweet film that has “melted” viewers' hearts and racking up great ratings.
Lacey Chabert, who knows a thing or two about Christmas movies, stars as Kate, a struggling cafe owner whose husband passes away from cancer. After receiving a magical scarf from her friends, she puts it on a snowman, and the next day, voilà, the snowman comes to life as Dustin Milligan's hunky Jack Snowman.
The film is fully aware of its silly premise, but the creative team smartly focuses on what makes Christmas movies so great. Milligan is the real highlightbecause he knows exactly what kind of movie he's in. His Jack is warm, sexy, helpful around the house, and cares deeply about Kate's feelings. He embodies everything you want in a magical snowman, which is why he and Kate make such a strong couple.
Hot cold
Hot Frosty is a heartwarming holiday film where a young widow's magical scarf brings a charming snowman to life. Together, they embark on a journey full of romance and laughter as she rediscovers the joy and spirit of Christmas with his help before he disappears.
- Release date
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November 13, 2024
- Execution time
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92 minutes
- Cast
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Lacey Chabert, Dustin Milligan, Craig Robinson, Joe Lo Truglio, Katy Mixon, Lauren Holly, Chrishell Stause, Sherry Miller, Allan Royal, Dan Lett, Sarah Desouza-Coelho, Sophia Webster, Matthew Stefiuk, z
- Director
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Jerry Ciccoritti
4
Buddy the Elf and Jovie (Elf)
Will Ferrell and Zooey Deschanel
No one is going to mistake Elf for a great romantic comedy, but that doesn't mean it doesn't feature an incredibly sweet romance amidst all its hilarity. Will Ferrell's blockbuster comedy has been a favorite since its release in 2003 and likely will be until the end of time. It's the kind of movie that always puts you in a great mood and makes you cry with laughter, but part of the film's sneaky charm is the relationship that develops between Ferrell's Buddy the Elf and Zooey Deschanel's cynical Jovie. .
The film follows Ferrell's grown-up “elf” as he comes to New York to meet his real father. While the film is mostly an excuse for Ferrell to show why he's one of the most treasured comedy talents of all time, It's Buddy's relationship with Jovie that gives the film its heart. From their iconic version of “Baby It's Cold Outside,” to Buddy's exuberant personality and his love of Christmas, slowly warming his ambivalence toward the holiday, to its culmination in the Christmas tree ceremony, Buddy and Jovie prove that all Christmas movie romances are fundamentally the same.
3
David and Natalie (true love)
Hugh Grant and Martine McCutcheon
True love is a film full of romantic gestures, which is probably why this film – about 10 different couples navigating relationships in the weeks leading up to Christmas – has become one of the most popular films to watch during the holidays. It's a film that wears its heart on its sleeve and makes you feel all its feelings.
But what really did True love What lasts is the cast and the variety of candid relationships it portrays. From the great bromance between Billy Mack and Joe to sweet, naked stand-ins John and Judy, and young love between Sam and Joanna, there's something for everyone. However, it is the simple romance between Hugh Grant's prime minister, David, and Natalie, the young woman who works in his office, that becomes the film's most captivating couple.
David and Natalie's charming romance works because it's based on genuine affection and instant connection. This It also helps that Hugh Grant is more charming in the film. In a film full of complicated relationships, theirs stands out as refreshing and tender. But what really cements his status as True loveThe best couple of the couple is the magical and hilarious kiss they share during the school Christmas play.
True love
The 2003 romantic comedy Love Actually follows several couples as they explore their relationships during the Christmas season. With a star-studded cast consisting of Bill Nighy, Colin Firth, Alan Rickman, Emma Thompson, Keira Knightley, Hugh Grant, Laura Linney, Liam Neeson, Rowan Atkinson, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Martin Freeman and Martine McCutcheon, Love Actually has since become a Christmas staple for romantic comedy lovers.
- Release date
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November 14, 2003
- Execution time
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135 minutes
- Director
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Ricardo Curtis
2
Clark and Ellen Griswold (National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation)
Chevy Chase and Beverly D'Angelo
While National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation is far from a romance, Chevy Chase's Clark Griswold and Beverly D'Angelo's Ellen Griswold stand out as one of the strongest couples in any Christmas movie. They embody everything you want in a spouse during the holidays: empathy, humor, unwavering support and, of course, love.
While Clark's tireless enthusiasm for giving his family the perfect Christmas leads to one chaotic accident after another, Ellen is always there to offer him love and support when things go wrong. Although she has moments of frustration – and who wouldn't – her endearing love for her husband never wavers. They form a close-knit team throughout the film, which makes them an amazing couple.
Furthermore…any couple who allows so many relatives in their home for so long should really love each other.
1
Amanda and Graham (The Holiday)
Cameron Diaz and Jude Law
The holiday is by far the best romantic film to watch during the Christmas season because it has two extraordinary romances set in two completely different locations. While some might argue that Iris and Miles are The holidaythe best couple, there really is no competition. Cameron Diaz's Amanda and Jude Law's Graham are the winners. Diaz is perfect in the film, bringing her signature humor and charm, while Jude Law is so charming that it's almost unfair to compare them to any other Christmas movie couple.
Amanda and Graham's relationship feels believable throughout, and the way they complement each other's lives in a short space of time is simply beautiful to watch. They adopt the classic romance trope of seemingly incompatible people coming together, but give new life to the cliché. Everything about the couple works, culminating in some of the most heartfelt and tender moments in any Christmas romance.