Oscar Buzz Served Hot: Thanksgiving Movie Magic

Thanksgiving isn’t just about turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce—it’s also the perfect time to dig into some dope flicks! Over the years, Hollywood has blessed us with Oscar-worthy gems released during this cozy, food-filled holiday season. So, grab your popcorn (or leftover sweet potato or pumpkin pie), and let’s revisit some Thanksgiving bangers.

1. Frozen (2013)

Let’s kick things off with a movie that had kids—and adults—singing Let It Go nonstop! Released just before Thanksgiving, Frozen became a global sensation, giving us a frosty fairy tale that won two Academy Awards. I took my great nieces and

2. Coco (2017)

Who needs dessert when you’ve got Pixar’s Coco filling you with all the feels? This vibrant celebration of Mexican culture and the Day of the Dead hit theaters in late November and swept away audiences—and the Oscars—with its stunning animation and a story as rich as abuela’s tamales. It’s a reminder to cherish family, traditions, and… tissues. Lots of tissues.

3. The King’s Speech (2010)

Thanksgiving may bring plenty of chatter at the dinner table, but The King’s Speech turned an unlikely historical drama about overcoming a speech impediment into gripping cinema. Colin Firth gave an Oscar-winning performance as King George VI, proving that a movie about monarchy can reign supreme at the box office.

4. Creed (2015)

Creed, released during turkey week, had us hyped with its adrenaline-pumping boxing sequences. Michael B. Jordan gave us a performance for the ages, while Sylvester Stallone tugged at our heartstrings. The film didn’t just win the box office—it reinvigorated the Rocky franchise.

5. Toy Story (1995)

Released during Thanksgiving week, Toy Story, the OG of animated movies, was a game-changer in every sense of the word, and its legacy lives on. While we dug into sweet potato pie, Buzz, Woody, and the gang teaching us about friendship, loyalty, and just how far we’d go for our crew.

6. Silver Linings Playbook (2012)

Family drama during the holidays? Relatable. Released in November, Silver Linings Playbook had the perfect Thanksgiving vibes—love, redemption, and a little chaos. Starring Jennifer Lawrence (who nabbed an Oscar) and Bradley Cooper, this quirky rom-com-drama had us cheering for dance-offs and second chances.

7. Moana (2016)

Thanksgiving may be an American tradition, but Moana took us on a Polynesian adventure we’ll never forget. This animated masterpiece celebrated courage, culture, and that catchy soundtrack. If How Far I’ll Go wasn’t stuck in your head, did you even watch it?

8. The Irishman (2019)

For those who love a cinematic feast as indulgent as Thanksgiving dinner, Martin Scorsese’s The Irishman hit theaters on Thanksgiving before heading to Netflix. With a powerhouse cast including Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci, this epic mob drama was pure Oscar bait—perfect for a lazy post-turkey binge.

9. Life of Pi (2012)

A visually stunning journey of survival, faith, and the bond between a boy and a tiger, Life of Pi roared into theaters on Thanksgiving. Winning four Oscars, including Best Director for Ang Lee, this film was as rich in storytelling as Thanksgiving is in gravy.

10. Knives Out (2019)

Nothing says “holiday vibes” like a family mystery! Knives Out, released during Thanksgiving, served up a murderously good time with its star-studded cast and razor-sharp humor. Watching this family feud play out might even make your Thanksgiving dinner drama seem tame.

11. Enchanted (2007)

Thanksgiving magic came to life with Disney’s Enchanted. This whimsical movie blended animated fairy tales with real-world charm, delivering a delightful mix of romance, comedy, and songs that had us enchanted from the get-go. Who doesn’t love a happily-ever-after served with pumpkin pie?

Why Thanksgiving Is Prime Time for Movie Magic

Thanksgiving marks the start of the holiday movie season—a time when studios drop their best cinematic treasures. It’s the perfect mix: families gathering, food comas setting in, and theaters ready to welcome you with open arms (and buttery popcorn). These Oscar-worthy releases remind us that Thanksgiving isn’t just about eating too much—it’s also about storytelling that warms the heart and sparks imagination.

What’s Your Thanksgiving Flick?

Whether you’re revisiting one of these classics or discovering a new favorite, Thanksgiving is the ultimate movie-watching holiday. And if you want to elevate your movie night, Chick Flick & Chill has you covered! From cozy slumber party setups to sophisticated date-night vibes, we’ll bring the magic to you.

Here’s to turkey, movies, and unforgettable memories. Happy Thanksgiving, movie buffs! 🍿🦃✨