When it comes to holiday movies, Christmas dominates the cultural conversation like an overhyped Marvel sequel. But Hanukkah, the scrappy underdog of holidays, has some hidden cinematic gems worth celebrating. From irreverent comedies to heartfelt tales of resilience, here are ten Hanukkah movies that demand your attention this season.
1. Eight Crazy Nights (2002)
Adam Sandler takes his famous “Hanukkah Song” to the next level in this animated comedy about a troublemaking loner who reconnects with his community and traditions during Hanukkah. It’s crass, hilarious, and full of heart—a perfect reminder of the holiday’s themes of redemption and kindness.
2. The Hebrew Hammer (2003)
This satirical cult classic follows an Orthodox Jewish private eye who takes on an evil Santa Claus trying to wipe Hanukkah off the map. It’s an unapologetically Jewish take on the superhero genre, bringing Hanukkah heroics to the screen in the most over-the-top way possible.
3. An American Tail (1986)
Though not explicitly about Hanukkah, this animated classic tells the story of Fievel Mousekewitz, a young Jewish immigrant mouse, as he journeys to America in search of a better life. Its themes of perseverance, faith, and family beautifully echo the spirit of Hanukkah.
4. Full-Court Miracle (2003)
A Jewish basketball team finds inspiration in the Hanukkah story and their coach as they strive to achieve an impossible victory. This Disney Channel movie directly parallels the miracle of the oil lasting eight days, celebrating resilience and faith in modern times.
5. Call Me by Your Name (2017)
A visually stunning and emotionally rich story of first love, the film subtly explores Jewish identity and includes a poignant Hanukkah dinner scene. It’s not your typical holiday movie, but its themes of family and tradition make it perfect for a contemplative celebration.
6. The Night Before (2015)
Seth Rogen, in a ridiculous Hanukkah sweater, steals the show in this wild holiday comedy about three friends navigating a chaotic Christmas Eve. While not exclusively a Hanukkah film, it’s packed with Jewish humor and Rogen’s manic energy, making it a hilarious addition to your holiday lineup.
7. The Prince of Egypt (1998)
This stunning animated epic tells the story of Moses and the Exodus, a cornerstone of Jewish history. While it’s not about Hanukkah, its themes of faith, resilience, and divine miracles are deeply resonant with the holiday’s spirit.
8. Love, Lights, Hanukkah! (2020)
This Hallmark favorite follows a woman who discovers her Jewish roots and learns to embrace Hanukkah traditions with her newfound family. It’s as sweet and predictable as you’d expect, but its focus on Hanukkah makes it a rare gem in the sea of Christmas romance movies.
9. Little Fockers (2010)
Ben Stiller’s hapless Greg Focker navigates interfaith family drama during the holiday season, including some memorable menorah moments. While the movie is a mixed bag, its inclusion of Hanukkah traditions in a mainstream comedy is worth noting.
10. For Your Consideration (2006)
This Christopher Guest mockumentary skewers Hollywood’s rebranding of a Jewish-themed holiday movie, hilariously capturing the absurdity of trying to commercialize Jewish traditions. It’s sharp, satirical, and perfect for anyone tired of the Christmas-industrial complex.
Honorable Mentions
While Hanukkah doesn’t have the overflowing cinematic canon that Christmas does, these films shine a light on the holiday in unique ways. Whether you’re looking for laughs, heart, or something in between, these picks make for a fantastic Hanukkah movie marathon.
So grab your gelt, spin a dreidel, and press play. Let’s show the world that Hanukkah deserves its time in the cinematic spotlight!
