Unconventional Christmas Day Movie Releases: Oscar Buzz and Streaming Trends

This Christmas Day, moviegoers are presented with a diverse range of films, some less traditional than the typical holiday fare. Nicole Kidman's erotic thriller, "Babygirl," and the horror reimagining of "Nosferatu" are among the offerings, raising eyebrows about their holiday placement. While these choices may seem unusual for Christmas, there's a strategic rationale behind them.

Nicole Kidman and Harris Dickinson in a scene from "Babygirl"

Nicole Kidman stars in "Babygirl," a film she describes as "liberating." (A24)

Lily-Rose Depp in a scene from "Nosferatu"

Chapman University Associate Professor Travis Knox points out that these releases are strategically timed for awards season. A Christmas Day release fulfills the seven-day theatrical run requirement for Oscar eligibility. This allows studios to gauge awards potential before wider release.

Side by side images of Harris Dickinson and Nicole Kidman in a scene from Babygirl and Lily-Rose Depp in a scene from Nosferatu

Alongside these unconventional choices, the Bob Dylan biopic "A Complete Unknown," starring Timothée Chalamet, offers a more mainstream option, appealing to a younger demographic.

Timothée Chalamet as Bob Dylan in "A Complete Uknown"

The shift towards streaming for holiday-themed content is also evident. "Wicked" introduces sing-along screenings, catering to a family audience who may have already seen the film at home. Tell-Tale TV's Lara Rosales suggests that the pandemic accelerated the move to streaming for family viewings, offering convenience and affordability.

Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo in a scene from "Wicked."

"Wicked" offers a sing-along experience this Christmas. (Universal Pictures)

The early November release of "Red One," starring Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans, highlights a different strategy. Despite a theatrical underperformance, its streaming debut on Prime Video reportedly broke records, suggesting a shift in how studios measure success.

Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans in a scene from "Red One"

"Red One" found greater success on streaming. (Karen Neal/Prime)

Dwayne Johnson in a scene from "Red One"

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson leads "Red One." (Frank Masi/Prime)

Nicole Kidman in a scene from "Babygirl"

Nicole Kidman explores complex themes in "Babygirl." (A24)

This year's Christmas Day releases reflect a changing landscape, where awards considerations and streaming trends influence theatrical choices, providing a diverse array of options for audiences.