Thanksgiving is not just about the turkey and the feast; it's a time for reflection, gratitude, and family gatherings. This unique collection of drama films captures the spirit of Thanksgiving, exploring themes of family dynamics, personal growth, and the complexities of human relationships. Whether you're looking for a heartwarming tale or a poignant narrative, these films provide a perfect backdrop for your Thanksgiving viewing, offering insights into the holiday's deeper meanings.

Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
Description: Although primarily a comedy, this film has its share of dramatic moments as Neal Page tries to get home for Thanksgiving, encountering numerous obstacles along the way.
Fact: The film was shot in reverse order, starting with the ending scenes in Chicago.


Home for the Holidays (1995)
Description: Claudia Larson returns home for Thanksgiving, expecting a quiet holiday, but instead finds herself in the midst of family chaos, revealing the true meaning of family bonds and acceptance.
Fact: The film was inspired by director Jodie Foster's own experiences with family gatherings during Thanksgiving.


The Daytrippers (1996)
Description: A family embarks on a Thanksgiving Day road trip to confront a suspected infidelity, leading to revelations and a deeper understanding of each other.
Fact: This was Greg Mottola's directorial debut, and the film was shot on a very low budget.


The Ice Storm (1997)
Description: Set during Thanksgiving weekend in 1973, this film explores the disintegration of two families amidst the backdrop of the Watergate scandal, offering a stark look at suburban life and infidelity.
Fact: The film was adapted from Rick Moody's novel of the same name, and its setting was changed from Connecticut to New Canaan, New York, for filming.


What's Cooking? (2000)
Description: This film intertwines the stories of four diverse families preparing for Thanksgiving, exploring cultural differences and family dynamics.
Fact: The film features a multicultural cast, showcasing Thanksgiving traditions from various backgrounds.


Pieces of April (2003)
Description: This film follows April Burns, who invites her estranged family for Thanksgiving dinner in her New York apartment, only to face a series of comedic and touching mishaps. It's a perfect blend of drama and comedy, highlighting the importance of family reconciliation.
Fact: The film was shot in just 16 days, and the entire movie takes place over the course of one day.


Dutch (1991)
Description: A working-class man, Dutch, takes his girlfriend's spoiled son on a road trip to his mother's house for Thanksgiving, leading to unexpected bonding and personal growth.
Fact: The film was originally titled "Driving Me Crazy" before being renamed "Dutch."


The War at Home (1996)
Description: A Vietnam War veteran returns home for Thanksgiving, struggling with PTSD and family expectations, leading to a poignant exploration of war's impact on family life.
Fact: Emilio Estevez wrote, directed, and starred in this film, which was based on his own experiences with his father, Martin Sheen.


The Myth of Fingerprints (1997)
Description: A family gathers for Thanksgiving, and the reunion brings out old wounds and new tensions, highlighting the complexities of familial relationships.
Fact: The film features an ensemble cast including Julianne Moore and Hope Davis, and was shot in Vermont.


The Family Stone (2005)
Description: A comedy-drama where a woman brings her uptight boyfriend home for Thanksgiving, leading to cultural clashes and emotional revelations within the Stone family.
Fact: The film was shot in a real house in Greenwich, Connecticut, which was used to portray the Stone family home.
