Spotlight on December’s Must-See Highlights

Hulu’s December slate kicks off with a bang on the first of the month, ushering in over 40 titles that span genres from family comedies to dramatic thrillers. The platform’s strategy this year emphasizes accessibility, with many additions available ad-free for premium subscribers, ensuring uninterrupted viewing during peak holiday viewing hours. Viewers can expect a mix of blockbuster revivals and under-the-radar gems that have garnered buzz at recent film festivals.

One standout is the return of the Planet of the Apes prequel trilogy, including Rise of the Planet of the Apes and Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, which continue to impress with their groundbreaking visual effects and thought-provoking narratives on human-animal relations. These films, originally released in the early 2010s, have seen renewed interest thanks to ongoing franchise developments, drawing in both longtime fans and newcomers curious about the sci-fi epic’s evolution.

Adding to the excitement, Hulu Originals like Made in Korea make their debut with a two-episode premiere on December 23, exploring cultural clashes through a lens of humor and heart. This series has already generated pre-release hype for its authentic portrayal of immigrant experiences, resonating with diverse audiences seeking relatable stories amid the holiday rush.

New Movies Streaming on Hulu This December

December’s movie additions to Hulu read like a cinematic stocking stuffer, packed with options for popcorn-fueled evenings. The full Home Alone collection arrives on December 1, featuring Macaulay Culkin’s mischievous Kevin McCallister outsmarting bumbling burglars in the original 1990 classic and its star-studded sequel set against New York City’s twinkling lights. These films, directed by Chris Columbus, have become synonymous with holiday traditions, grossing over $1 billion worldwide and inspiring countless imitators in the family comedy genre.

Joining the festive fray is the The Santa Clause trilogy, starring Tim Allen as the reluctant Santa who must embrace his jolly destiny. The first installment from 1994 kicked off a beloved series that blends slapstick humor with poignant moments about family and redemption, while the sequels expand the lore with elf antics and North Pole escapades. Families worldwide have turned these movies into annual rituals, with the trilogy’s enduring appeal lying in its mix of magic and relatable parental struggles.

For those craving something beyond tinsel and cheer, The Life of Chuck lands on December 26, a poignant adaptation of Stephen King’s novella directed by Mike Flanagan. This unconventional tale traces the extraordinary life of an ordinary man backward from his death to his childhood, featuring a powerhouse performance by Tom Hiddleston. Flanagan’s signature blend of horror-tinged drama and emotional depth has critics praising it as one of the year’s most inventive films, perfect for viewers seeking introspective viewing after holiday indulgences.

Neighborhood Watch, arriving December 18, delivers pulse-pounding suspense in a suburban setting gone awry. This 2025 thriller follows a group of ordinary residents uncovering dark secrets in their idyllic community, starring rising talents like Ayo Edebiri and Glen Powell. With its timely commentary on voyeurism in the digital age, the film has sparked discussions at Sundance previews, appealing to fans of psychological edge-of-your-seat stories.

Action enthusiasts won’t want to miss Plane and Under Fire, both debuting mid-month. Gerard Butler reprises his rugged hero role in Plane, a 2023 high-altitude survival saga that combines intense aerial sequences with ground-level grit. Its sequel-like energy has kept it relevant, especially as holiday travel tales abound. Meanwhile, Under Fire offers a fresh take on wartime journalism, following embedded reporters through harrowing assignments with authenticity drawn from real-life correspondences.

Indie darling Griffin in Summer provides a lighter counterpoint, chronicling a young man’s comedic quest for self-discovery during a sweltering vacation. Featuring cameos from comedy veterans, this 2025 release has charmed audiences with its witty dialogue and relatable coming-of-age vibes, earning festival awards for its fresh voice in ensemble storytelling.

Horror aficionados can dive into The Devil Conspiracy on December 2, a supernatural chiller pitting ancient evils against modern science. Starring Alice Eve as a determined investigator, the film weaves biblical lore with biotech nightmares, delivering scares that linger long after the credits roll. Its practical effects and theological twists have positioned it as a sleeper hit among genre fans.

Top 8 Must-Watch New Movie Arrivals

Home Alone (1990): This John Hughes-produced gem follows 8-year-old Kevin as he defends his home from intruders with ingenious traps. Its blend of slapstick and sentiment has made it a holiday staple, influencing countless films while grossing nearly $500 million globally. Families continue to quote lines like “Keep the change, ya filthy animal” during December gatherings.
The Santa Clause (1994): Tim Allen’s transformation into Santa Claus after a rooftop mishap leads to hilarious and heartfelt adventures. The movie’s practical magic effects and themes of second chances resonate across generations. It spawned a franchise that has entertained millions, cementing Allen’s place in Christmas lore.
The Life of Chuck (2025): Mike Flanagan’s backward-chronology narrative celebrates life’s fleeting joys through Tom Hiddleston’s nuanced portrayal. Drawing from King’s introspective style, it challenges viewers to reflect on mortality amid festivities. Early reviews hail it as emotionally resonant without veering into gloom.
Neighborhood Watch (2025): Ayo Edebiri leads this taut thriller about neighbors spying on each other with deadly consequences. Its social media-savvy plot mirrors real-world privacy concerns. The film’s sharp script and tense pacing make it ideal for group watches with debate-sparking twists.
Plane (2023): Gerard Butler pilots a crashing jet into hostile territory in this adrenaline-fueled survival tale. Co-starring Mike Colter, it excels in high-stakes action sequences grounded in procedural realism. Viewers praise its no-frills heroism, perfect for escaping holiday stress.
Under Fire (2025): This docudrama tracks journalists dodging bullets in conflict zones, inspired by embedded reporting archives. Starring breakout actor Jacob Elordi, it humanizes the dangers of truth-seeking. Its raw authenticity has earned acclaim for elevating war stories beyond stereotypes.
Griffin in Summer (2025): A quirky road trip comedy where Griffin navigates family drama and first love under the sun. Written and directed by up-and-comer Mia Tharia, it shines with improvised banter. Festival goers love its feel-good energy, a balm for winter blues.
The Devil Conspiracy (2022): Alice Eve battles demonic forces infiltrating a cloning lab in this faith-meets-science horror. Its Vatican-set climax delivers visceral thrills with thematic depth on ethics. Fans of exorcism subgenre will appreciate the fresh, high-concept angle.

Fresh TV Shows and Returning Favorites

Hulu’s television offerings this December pulse with energy, from epic fantasy returns to reality showdowns that keep viewers glued. Percy Jackson and the Olympians Season 2 premieres on December 10, transporting fans to the Sea of Monsters in a quest filled with mythical beasts and godly intrigue. Walker Scobell reprises his role as the demigod hero, joined by a cast including Leah Jeffries and Aryan Simhadri, whose chemistry has been a highlight since the series’ Disney+ debut. Adapted faithfully from Rick Riordan’s novels, this season promises heightened stakes and visual spectacles that rival big-budget blockbusters.

The animated chaos of The Wonderfully Weird World of Gumball Season 2 arrives shortly after, on December 20, bringing back the surreal adventures of 12-year-old Gumball Watterson and his goldfish brother Darwin. Created by Ben Bocquelet, the series masterfully mixes hand-drawn animation with live-action and CGI for a uniquely bonkers aesthetic. Its sharp satire on family life and pop culture has earned a devoted following, with new episodes tackling timely topics like social media mishaps through laugh-out-loud scenarios.

Reality television gets a glamorous upgrade with Dance Moms: A New Era Season 2, launching December 4. This revival introduces a fresh studio and competitive dancers under the guidance of a new no-nonsense coach, echoing the original’s dramatic flair. Produced by Lifetime, it captures the highs and lows of youth ambition, drawing parallels to the mothership series that ran for eight seasons and influenced dance competition culture.

Documentary series like Hunting Mr. Nice: How to Catch a Cartel Kingpin premiere on December 3, chronicling the real-life pursuit of a Welsh drug lord by international authorities. Narrated with archival footage and expert interviews, the four-part docuseries unravels layers of deception in the 1980s cocaine trade. It offers gripping insights into law enforcement tactics, appealing to true-crime buffs hungry for international angles beyond American tales.

I AM BOXER, a Hulu Original docuseries, continues with episodes throughout the month, profiling unsung heroes in the boxing world from underprivileged backgrounds. Each installment spotlights a fighter’s journey, blending ring action with personal triumphs over adversity. Directed by emerging filmmaker Lena Vasquez, it highlights the sport’s role in community empowerment, resonating in an era of renewed interest in combat sports narratives.

Comedy takes center stage with Kumail Nanjiani: Night Thoughts on December 15, a stand-up special where the Eternals star dissects insomnia, fame, and cultural identity with his signature deadpan wit. Filmed in Los Angeles, it follows Nanjiani’s tradition of blending personal anecdotes with observational humor, much like his Emmy-nominated The Big Sick. Expect crowd-pleasing bits on Hollywood absurdities that hit close to home for aspiring creatives.

Key Returning Series and Why They’re Buzzing

Besides new entries, several ongoing shows drop fresh content to keep momentum alive. The Curse of Oak Island Season 12 continues its treasure-hunting saga on December 11, with the Lagina brothers delving deeper into Nova Scotia’s mysteries using advanced tech. Now in its twelfth year, the series has evolved from amateur archaeology to a polished docudrama, captivating history enthusiasts with seasonal cliffhangers.

Swamp People: Serpent Invasion Season 3 slithers back on December 12, following Louisiana hunters combating invasive pythons in the Everglades. The show’s blend of environmental advocacy and adrenaline-pumping captures has broadened its appeal, educating viewers on ecological threats while delivering raw outdoor action.

Holiday Specials and Festive Programming

No December on Hulu would be complete without a sleigh-full of holiday specials designed to kindle seasonal joy. The Wonderful World of Disney: Holiday Spectacular airs on December 1, featuring dazzling performances from Broadway stars and Disney characters in a live extravaganza from the El Capitan Theatre. Hosted by a rotating lineup of celebrities, it includes musical numbers from classics like Frozen and The Lion King, capturing the enchantment that has made it a network tradition since 2015.

CMA Country Christmas lights up screens on December 3, showcasing twangy tunes and heartfelt stories from Nashville’s finest. Performers like Lainey Wilson and Zach Bryan deliver seasonal covers alongside originals, emphasizing the genre’s warm embrace of family and faith. This annual event, produced by the Country Music Association, consistently draws millions, blending star power with intimate moments that feel like a front-porch gathering.

The Great Christmas Light Fight Season 13 premieres December 5, pitting elaborate holiday displays against each other in a competition of creativity and glow. Families across America compete for a $50,000 prize, judged by Michael Symon and Hunter March, who tour jaw-dropping installations from inflatable armies to synchronized light shows. The series celebrates DIY spirit and neighborhood pride, inspiring viewers to amp up their own decorations.

For a touch of animated whimsy, Kevin Costner Presents: The First Christmas arrives December 8, retelling the nativity story through a Western lens with Costner’s narration. This family-oriented special weaves historical reverence with frontier folklore, appealing to those seeking faith-based content amid secular fare. Its gentle pacing and stunning landscapes make it a serene addition to evening routines.

Musical events round out the cheer with iHeartRadio Jingle Ball 2025 on December 19, streaming live from New York with pop heavyweights like Olivia Rodrigo and Sabrina Carpenter. The concert series, a radio staple since 1996, pulses with high-energy performances and surprise collaborations, capturing the electric vibe of holiday radio countdowns.

What’s Leaving Hulu: Don’t Miss These Before They’re Gone

As new content floods in, Hulu bids farewell to several titles by month’s end, urging quick binges for completists. On December 31, Merry Kiss Cam exits, a rom-com capturing serendipitous smooches at a hockey game that sparks an unlikely romance. Its lighthearted plot and holiday setting make it a last-minute charmer for date nights.

One Way departs the same day, a gritty road thriller starring Colson Baker as a man evading his past on a cross-country drive. Donald Sutherland’s veteran presence elevates the tense narrative, which explores redemption through high-speed chases and moral dilemmas.

Earlier exits include Maneater on December 23, a shark-infested survival drama with explosive underwater sequences. Directed by Alexandre Aja, it delivers Jaws-level thrills with modern VFX, ideal for summer-in-winter escapes.

Last Journey of Paul W.R. leaves December 24, chronicling a terminally ill musician’s final tour with poignant folk tunes and raw emotion. The Swedish import’s blend of music and memoir has touched arthouse crowds, leaving a lingering melody in its wake.

To maximize your viewing, prioritize these departures alongside arrivals, creating a balanced queue that honors both old and new favorites.

Conclusion

December 2025 on Hulu encapsulates the essence of the holidays through a diverse array of movies, shows, and specials that foster connection and escapism. From the booby-trapped hilarity of Home Alone to the mythical depths of Percy Jackson Season 2, and the twinkling rivalries in The Great Christmas Light Fight, the platform curates experiences that warm hearts and spark imaginations. As families gather and resolutions loom, this lineup not only entertains but also reminds us of storytelling’s timeless power to bridge generations and genres. Whether revisiting classics or discovering bold newcomers like The Life of Chuck, Hulu’s offerings ensure the season’s glow extends far beyond the tree lights, inviting all to stream, savor, and celebrate.