5 Awesome Movies to Watch over the Winter Break

From musicals to gripping thrillers, these five films are jam-packed with action, atmosphere, and compelling characters - perfect for those cold winter nights when you've nothing to do but feast on a box of Celebrations and relax in front of the fire.  

Once (2007)

Once is a feel-good, Irish-made film that took home 'Best Original Song' at the 2008 Oscars. It made quite the splash in Ireland when it was first released late-noughties, thanks to its honest guy-meets-girl story that unfolds on the charming streets of Dublin City. There's also great chemistry between co-stars Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová and a brilliant original soundtrack to boot. 

Where to watch: Netflix

Bohemian Rhapsody (2018)

The iconic title of this film speaks for itself. Full of 70/80s hits, throwback costumes, and glorious perms, this musical biopic of QUEEN tells the story of one of the 21st century's best-loved rock bands. Rami Malek shines as the troubled Freddie Mercury. We guarantee you won't be able to watch this one without humming along to at least one song. 

Where to watch: Netflix

The Guilty (2021)

This thriller is surprisingly compelling given that the action all takes place within a single setting. Jake Gyllenhaal stars as a disgraced police officer who has been assigned temporary duties at a 911 call centre. Towards the end of his shift, he picks up a chilling call for help - one that sets off a volatile chain of events. Expect to find yourself on the edge of your seat.

Where to watch: Netflix

Knives Out (2019)

Starring Daniel Craig as a savvy private investigator, Knives Out is a murder mystery full of clever twists and turns. When the head of the Thrombey family, Harlan, dies under suspicious circumstances, Detective Benoit Blanc (Craig) arrives on the scene to work out which dysfunctional member of the family might have committed the crime. With plenty of humour and entertaining characters, this one's a must-see. 

Where to watch: Now TV

About Time (2013)

Even if you're not a rom-com fan, this film does a good job of pulling on the heartstrings. Moving, well-written, and backed by great performances from the likes of Domhnall Gleeson, About Time is the story of a young man who, at the age of 21, finds out that the men in his family have the ability to time travel. It follows how he uses this ability to find the love of his life and attempts to protect his family from everyday-life misfortunes. 

Where to watch: Now TV