Top Family-Friendly French Christmas Movies
World Citizen GamesFrench Christmas movies bring all kinds of surprises. Some, like the riotous Le Père Noël est une ordure, are more suited for grown-ups who appreciate absurd humor. But if you’re looking for holiday films that you can enjoy with kids—or kids at heart—you’re in the right place! Here’s a list of delightful French family-friendly Christmas movies, perfect for bilingual bonding or just soaking up some yuletide cheer.
L'Apprenti Père Noël (Santa's Apprentice) – 2010
This beautifully animated story follows Nicholas, a young orphan chosen to be Santa’s apprentice. But Nicholas must overcome his fears and self-doubt to prove he’s ready for the role. With themes of courage and kindness, it’s a film that resonates with kids and adults alike.
L'Apprenti Père Noël et le Flocon Magique (The Magic Snowflake) – 2013
A delightful sequel to Santa's Apprentice, this film explores Nicholas’s adventures as he takes on his new role as Santa. But when the weight of responsibility becomes overwhelming, he learns invaluable lessons about teamwork and trust.
L’Enfant au Grelot (Charlie’s Christmas) – 1998
This enchanting short film tells the tale of a boy who discovers a mysterious bell linked to Santa Claus. With its dreamy animation and poignant storytelling, it’s a true holiday classic that captures the magic of Christmas.
Le Père Noël (Santa Claus!) – 2014
This live-action comedy follows a young boy who mistakes a cat burglar for Santa Claus. Together, they embark on a whimsical nighttime adventure. While the premise is lighthearted, the film’s heartfelt moments make it a great choice for family viewing.
Santa & Cie (Christmas & Co) – 2017
A modern twist on holiday hijinks, this movie follows Santa as he ventures into the real world to find a cure for his ailing elves. Packed with humor and holiday spirit, it’s a fantastic pick for kids and parents alike.
Tips for Watching Bilingual Movies
Repeat familiar favorites: Revisiting films you already know, or have seen in another language can deepen understanding and build vocabulary.
Choose animation: Animated films often feature clear enunciation, making them an excellent choice for language learners of all ages.
Embrace subtitles: Watching with subtitles in your target language can help connect spoken words to written ones, aiding comprehension.
Discuss and engage: Pause to talk about the storyline or guess what will happen next. This interaction enriches both the language and the movie experience.