"There’s something nostalgic about going to the movies, spending way too much on popcorn and drinks, and disconnecting from the world for a couple of hours. And with Thanksgiving being a big opening weekend for movies, watching a flick with the family is a fun way to spend some quality time together.
Once you’re filled to the brim with stuffing, mashed potatoes, and turkey, you’re in the perfect position to kick back and relax. The best way to do just that is to catch one of the newest movie releases either on your own couch or in the comfort of your local movie theater (seriously, have you sat in one of those recliners recently?!). Whatever your viewing preference may be, we’ve got a list of the best new movies to watch as a family over Thanksgiving weekend.
New Movies Coming to Theaters
Hitpig!
Rating: PG | Release Date: November 1
Starring Ted Lasso’s Jason Sudeikis comes the animated film we all need this time of year. The main character is a clever pig whose job it is to capture escaped animals. Think of him as your friendly neighborhood bounty hunter (who’s actually kind of adorable).
Here
Rating: PG-13 | Release Date: November 1
With a star-studded cast including Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, and Kelly Reilly, parents are sure to enjoy this one just as much as their older kiddos. Experience one house and one family over several decades in a way that perfectly captures what makes a house a home. Live through the good and the bad—joy, loss, hope, and love in a new heartfelt cinematic experience.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
Rating: PG | Release Date: November 8
I don’t know about you, but when the clock strikes midnight on Black Friday, it’s Christmas time for me! This Thanksgiving weekend, get in the holiday spirit with a new festive film. When a group of six troublemaking siblings take over the holiday church pageant, everyone expects chaos. Little do they know, everyone has something to learn about true holiday spirit this year.
Red One
Rating: PG-13 | Release Date: November 15
Starring Dwayne Johnson, Red One is simply a must-see in my book. With the holiday season approaching, an evil villain kidnaps Santa Claus. To save him and Christmas, an E.L.F. (Extremely Large and Formidable) operative must join forces with a successful tracker.
Wicked
Rating: PG | Release Date: November 22
As one of the most anticipated releases of the year, you’re going to want to order your tickets ahead of time for this one! Starring Ariana Grande as Glinda, this version of Wicked explores her unlikely friendship with Elphaba (played by Cynthia Erivo), who’s misunderstood due to her green skin. After an encounter with the Wizard of Oz, their friendship is put to the test as they are drawn in separate directions. Catch Wicked Part One this Thanksgiving weekend and look out for Wicked Part Two in November 2025.
Moana 2
Rating: PG | Release Date: November 27
If it feels like you’ve been waiting in anticipation for this sequel as much as your kiddos have, you’re certainly not alone. Our favorite Motunui Cheiftess is back—along with her beloved friends—for a brand new adventure in Disney’s Moana 2. This time, Moana and Maui set sail to answer an unexpected call from the ancestors.
New Movies to Stream at Home
Spellbound
Rating: PG | Release Date: November 22 | Where to Stream: Netflix
Fantasy? Adventure? Music? Sign your family up for this triple threat that you can stream from your own living room! After a spell turns her parents into monsters, the daring princess Ellian must go on a dangerous quest to save her kingdom and family.
Our Little Secret
Rating: G | Release Date: November 27 | Where to Stream: Netflix
I don’t know about you, but I couldn’t be happier about Lindsay Lohan’s return to the big screen. If you haven’t seen her holiday film, Falling for Christmas, on Netflix yet, it’s a must-watch for the family as it’s rated PG. Make it a double feature this Thanksgiving weekend with her latest flick, Our Little Secret. This time, her character couldn’t be more excited to spend the holidays with her new boyfriend’s family—that is, until she realizes her ex will be joining in on the fun.
Brett Nicole Hayden, Assistant Editor
As the Assistant Editor, Brett works with the editors of The Everymom on the content creation process by updating stories, sourcing images and graphics, and pitching and contributing her own articles. Her favorite topics to write about are culture, relationships, and living. She’s also The Everymom’s resident baby names and family movies expert!