Looking for Christmas movies with a sprinkle of magique, a dash of French humor, and just enough coziness to keep the whole family smiling from Christmas Eve to New Year’s? TV5MONDE USA and TV5MONDE+ have curated a cheerful lineup of french Christmas treats—from whimsical animations to laugh-out-loud comedies.
Whether you’re an apprenti cinephile, learning french through movies, or simply craving a heartwarming conte to enjoy with the kids while waiting for père noël (Santa Claus) to drop off gifts, this list covers the best french family titles to watch this holiday season.
Here are the festive must-sees—starting with the films airing on TV5MONDE USA this December.
Watch it on TV5MONDE USA
Bis repetita — December 21 at 8:30pm ET/5:30pm PT
Chaos in the classroom? Très possible. Delphine, a disillusioned Latin teacher played by Louise Bourgoin, is ready to give up. Her unusual solution? Handing out 19/20 grades so the students will leave her alone. But when this strategy sends the whole class to the World Latin Championships in Naples, she must face the zealous nephew of the headmistress and the pressure to cheat her way out of this mess.
Directed by Émilie Noblet and supported by the comic talents of Xavier Lacaille and Noémie Lvovsky, Bis repetita is a lively family comedy full of chaotic charm. It’s the perfect pick for a merry christmas movie night with a twist of academic mischief.
Robin des bois, la véritable histoire — December 23 at 8:30pm ET/5:30pm PT
Also streaming on TV5MONDE+ beginning December 3.
Forget the noble hero you think you know. In this hilariously offbeat comedy from director Anthony Marciano, Robin Hood, played by Max Boublil, steals only from poor people, the elderly, and women—because, well, he can. His plans go haywire when a rival group of do-gooders steals his loot and actually gives it to the poor.
With Géraldine Nakache, Malik Bentalha, Ary Abittan, Gérard Darmon, and Patrick Timsit completing the cast, the film is a wonderfully absurd tale to enjoy with the whole family. For those tired of the usual american christmas movie formula, this french film delivers an irreverent holiday laugh.
Les Moomins sur la Riviera — December 28 at 8:30pm ET/5:30pm PT
Also streaming on TV5MONDE+ beginning December 3.
The beloved Moomins set off on what should be a peaceful voyage, only to be swept up in a storm that lands them on the luxurious Côte d’Azur. Mistaken for high-society guests, they end up in the finest suite of a grand hotel. But the glitzy lifestyle soon wears thin, threatening to divide the family.
Directed by Xavier Picard, this charming animation is a gentle, sunny escape that still captures the magic and warmth of holiday storytelling. It’s a perfect christmas film for younger audiences and anyone who loves an uplifting family tale.
French Christmas Movies Streaming on TV5MONDE+
Bécassine
The iconic French character Bécassine comes to life in this sweet and quirky comedy. Her innocent, wide-eyed way of navigating the world gives the film a timeless quality. Ideal for families wanting a simple, cheerful watch with a touch of nostalgia and classic french holiday charm.
Habib, la grande aventure
Perfect for teens, this upbeat comedy follows Habib, an apprentice actor trying to find his place in the world. His journey is full of mishaps, determination, and heart, making it an inspiring and fun choice for families with older kids who enjoy character-driven holiday films.
L’Homme de Rio
A beloved classic often shown on French television during the holidays, this adventure-comedy starring Jean-Paul Belmondo delivers thrills, humor, and 1960s charm. While not a christmas movie per se, its sense of adventure, exotic settings, and energetic pacing make it a great pick for families wanting something different from the usual santa claus stories.
Comme des garçons
This lively comedy tells the true story of the first women’s football team in France. With humor, heart, and determination, it’s a tale of resilience perfect for the holidays. Families who love feel-good sports films will find plenty to cheer for here.
Interdit aux chiens et aux Italiens
A beautifully crafted stop-motion animation, this film shares the immigration story of director Alain Ughetto’s ancestors. Tender, poetic, and visually striking, it’s a meaningful holiday-season choice for families looking to connect with themes of heritage, home, and history.
Les Schtroumpfs (The Smurfs) TV Series
The blue icons of French childhood return in this joyful series. Ideal for younger viewers, the episodes are short, spirited, and perfect to enjoy while waiting for père noël or while recovering from too much bûche. Les Schtroumpfs (The Smurfs) is a simple, reliable family favorite.
France’s holiday favorites include Joyeux Noël, Le Père Noël est une ordure, La Bûche, Un Conte de Noël, and Santa & Cie by Alain Chabat. These classics range from heartfelt drama to outrageous comedy and are beloved staples of the french holiday season.
French households enjoy a mix of comedies, animations, classic christmas films, and family-friendly programming. Popular titles include Le Père Noël est une ordure, the beloved Joyeux Noël, and reruns of adventure classics such as L’Homme de Rio. Many families also explore international christmas movies and series on TV5MONDE and TV5MONDE+.







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