The festive season is finally here, and nothing is better than putting on a wholesome Christmas movie to lift your spirits.
I love Christmas movies. I don’t care if they’re good or bad, I’m probably going to watch them. I usually try to watch at least one movie a day while counting down the days to Christmas Eve. I obviously like the classics like Home Alone, Die Hard, Elf and Miracle on 34th Street, but each year I want to check out new ones. This year I’m trying to find the best Afrikaans Christmas movies.
I had to dig deep to find a few I can recommend. Thankfully I was able to find five movies I absolutely love on Showmax. These movies range from comedies to heartbreaking drama, with each as wonderful as the next. I think all of these are worth watching, even if you might not love all of them. Here are the five you can watch on Showmax.
Asseblief en Dankie
This is a warm-hearted drama that leans into the small, quiet moments that make Christmas meaningful. It follows relatable characters who have to navigate family, forgiveness and the complexities of showing up for one another. What makes it worth watching is its grounded emotional honesty. It captures that familiar South African blend of humour, tenderness and chaos that happens around the festive table.
Liewe Kersfeesvader
This one is a must-watch. It plays like a Christmas wish made into a movie. It is funny, heartbreaking and yet wholesome. It reminds me of how magical the Christmas season can be. It still has a bit of magic left if we’re willing to look for it. It’s worth watching because it delivers genuine charm without leaning on clichés, showing how wonderful this time of the year can be.
Somerkersfees
It’s not Christmas without a good family vacation. This movie embraces its summer Christmas setting with sunshine and braai in the forefront. It feels like a memory from my own Christmas vacations, but this might not be a film the kids should watch. At its core it’s about family, but it’s also a lot of fun.
A Boere-Krismis
There’s nothing more hilarious at Christmas than a dramatic family situation, and nothing says festive season like getting to laugh together. The movie is full of familiar faces and familiar places. It feels authentically Afrikaans and authentically South African, something a lot of Namibians can relate to. Its mockumentary style makes it feel like a home movie.
Posbus 1
This is a gentle, emotional Christmas story, one of those that reminds you what this season is really about. It’s less about big festive moments and more about the quiet connections between strangers and how important those moments are. It might get you a little emotional, but that’s what makes it special.
In Namibia and South Africa we have unique ways to celebrate Christmas. It’s about coming together and family. Nothing can bring people together like a great movie night. I certainly can’t wait to watch these movies with my family. I also can’t wait to share my five favourite Christmas movies of all time.
