The best films to see at the cinema during the festive season
As per tradition, cinema is popular at Christmas time: here is a list of titles for young and old not to be missed
There is no better time than Christmas to enjoy a good film at the cinema with the whole family. Between Christmas-themed titles, dramas, big Hollywood productions and cartoons, let's find out which titles are a must- watch this holiday season. (Don't miss our article on the most beautiful cinemas in Florence)
Primavera
With Primavera, Damiano Michieletto, one of Italy’s most renowned opera directors, brings Stabat Mater, the Strega Prize–winning novel by Tiziano Scarpa, to the big screen. Set in 1716 Venice, the film follows Cecilia (Tecla Insolia), a young violinist at the Ospedale della Pietà, torn between her talent, obedience, and desire for freedom. The arrival of the maestro Antonio Vivaldi (Michele Riondino) challenges Cecilia with strict rules and ambitious dreams. The cast also includes Fabrizia Sacchi and Valentina Bellè.
Buen Camino
The return of Checco Zalone, directed by Gennaro Nunziante: a wealthy man sets out on foot along the Camino de Santiago to find his missing daughter, encountering humorous situations, unexpected meetings, and heartfelt moments. An irresistible comedy designed to make the entire holiday audience laugh.
Buen CaminoNorimberga
A historical epic starring Rami Malek and Russell Crowe, directed by James Vanderbilt, which reconstructs the days leading up to the famous trial of Nazi leaders. Malek plays Douglas Kelley, an American psychiatrist tasked with evaluating the mental health of the defendants, including Hermann Göring (Crowe). Based on the book The Nazi and the Psychiatrist, the film explores the psychological duel between the protagonists and raises enduring questions about the responsibility for evil.
Father Mother Sister Brother
The new film by Jim Jarmusch, Golden Lion 2025 winner, tells the story of imperfect families through three episodes. Starring Adam Driver, Mayim Bialik, Tom Waits, Charlotte Rampling, Vicky Krieps, and Cate Blanchett, the film explores connections, silences, and subtle irony that emerge during Christmas gatherings, revealing restrained affections and hidden truths.
Avatar – Fuoco e cenere
The third installment of James Cameron’s saga returns viewers to Pandora. Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) and Neytiri (Zoe Saldaña) lead the Na’vi in an epic conflict that tests alliances, territories, and identities. Featuring new creatures, breathtaking landscapes, and spectacular action, this chapter continues a saga that has redefined blockbuster cinema over the past fifteen years.
Avatar – Fuoco e cenereThe Teacher
Director Farah Nabulsi brings to the screen a drama set in the Palestinian territories. Basem (Saleh Bakri), a teacher torn between his political commitments and educational responsibilities, faces intimate and difficult choices alongside his students and an international volunteer (Imogen Poots).
Eternity
An unconventional rom-com that explores eternity and matters of the heart. Joan and Larry, married for 65 years, find themselves in the afterlife following Larry’s death, where Joan must choose between her first love, Luke, and the bond she built step by step with Larry. Written by Pat Cunnan and directed by David Freyne, the film blends humor and melancholy.
Eternity Vita privata
A psychological thriller directed by Rebecca Zlotowski, starring Jodie Foster, Daniel Auteuil, Virginie Efira, and Mathieu Amalric. Lilian Steiner, an American psychoanalyst in Paris, investigates the mysterious death of a patient through hypnotic sessions and emerging memories, in a film that delves into suspicion, memory, and identity.
Un Topolino Sotto l’Albero
Directed by Henrik Martin Dahlsbakken, the film follows the adventures of a family of little mice trying to save Christmas in a countryside house disrupted by a human family. A fun and colorful story, perfect for young audiences.
