Discover 12 Must-See Shows for a Free-to-Air Christmas

As families gather to celebrate the festive season, many may find themselves limited to free-to-air television options in remote areas or homes without modern streaming services. In response to this challenge, TV Week has compiled a list of twelve standout shows that promise to bring festive cheer, showcasing a mix of comedy, drama, and nostalgia. These selections aim to enhance the holiday experience without resorting to traditional specials or overdone ice-capades.

Festive Highlights to Brighten Your Christmas

The first recommendation is the feature-length comedy, Bad Tidings, airing at 20:30 on December 23 on Sky Open. British comedians Lee Mack and Chris McCausland star as a grumpy home-security expert and his visually impaired neighbour. The Irish Independent’s Pat Stacey praises the film as “a deft mix of comedy and sentimentality that never descends into sticky, American-style schmaltz.”

On Christmas Eve, viewers can catch Mama’s Music Box at 11:00 on Whakaata Māori. This 2020 film follows two South Aucklanders on a quest to find a treasured item for their grandmother, featuring a performance by Sieni Leo’o Olo (aka Bubbah).

Another highlight on Christmas Eve is The Royal Variety Performance, airing at 19:00 on TVNZ 1. Hosted by Jason Manford, this annual event showcases an array of performances from renowned acts, including Jessie J and the cast of musicals like Les Misérables. The Prince and Princess of Wales attended the show, adding an extra layer of excitement to the occasion.

For those looking for a classic, Love Actually will air at 19:30 on TVNZ 2. This 2003 film, written and directed by Wellington-born Richard Curtis, remains a holiday staple, featuring a star-studded cast that includes Alan Rickman and Liam Neeson.

At 20:40 on December 24, audiences can enjoy Living on Whakaata Māori. In this poignant 2022 film, Bill Nighy delivers a powerful performance in a reimagining of Akira Kurosawa’s classic, Ikiru. The screenplay, penned by Nobel laureate Kazuo Ishiguro, evokes memories of beloved British dramas.

Christmas Day Viewing Delights

Christmas Day will feature a range of engaging films. At 13:00, Kiwi Christmas will air on Whakaata Māori, a delightful hybrid of holiday classics suitable for all ages. Following this, at 14:10, viewers can enjoy The Princess Bride on TVNZ 2, a beloved fantasy-adventure that continues to resonate with audiences.

At 16:00, E.T. The Extra Terrestrial returns to screens on TVNZ 2, showcasing the charming tale of a young boy and his extraterrestrial friend. This 1982 classic is filled with memorable moments and performances that have stood the test of time.

For a unique twist, The Heist Before Xmas will air at 17:15 on Sky Open. This 2023 British festive dramedy features Timothy Spall and James Nesbitt in a story about a bank robbery gone awry, presenting an engaging narrative that balances humor and drama.

Fans of the hit series can look forward to Gavin & Stacey: The Finale at 20:30 on Duke. This highly anticipated feature-length episode marks nearly two decades since the series began, providing a nostalgic experience for longtime viewers. Following the episode, a behind-the-scenes documentary, A Fond Farewell, will air at 22:15, recounting the show’s journey and its impact on audiences.

Finally, at 21:00 on Whakaata Māori, The Fabelmans, directed by Steven Spielberg, will captivate viewers with its semi-autobiographical narrative exploring the connection between family and cinema.

Additionally, Wham! Last Christmas Unwrapped will air at 21:20 on TVNZ 2, celebrating the 40th anniversary of the iconic song. This 2024 BBC documentary delves into the cultural significance of the track and pays tribute to the late George Michael.

With these twelve selections, families can find joy in their free-to-air Christmas viewing, ensuring that the holiday spirit remains bright even in the absence of extensive options.